Spring Has Sprung! How to Get Your Lawn Ready for the Season

As spring arrives in Minnesota, homeowners start thinking about bringing their lawns back to life. But successful spring lawn care isn’t just about the date on the calendar, it’s also all about timing, soil temps, and repairing winter damage before the season begins. B&B Hoffman Sod Farms is here to help homeowners turn tired, patchy lawns into lush, healthy landscapes this spring. Here’s how to get your lawn in tip-top shape for the season ahead.

Repairing Winter Damage: Voles, Snow Mold, and Dead Patches.. Oh My!

Minnesota winters can leave behind more than just melting snow and muddy puddles. As your lawn thaws, it’s important to assess and address any damage you find. 

Vole Damage

If your lawn suddenly looks like a road map, voles are likely to blame. Vole damage often appears as thin, winding trails across the lawn where these adorable yet infuriating little rodents tunneled under the snow over the winter. The good news is that it’s repairable with a little work, time, and patience. Lightly raking these areas helps remove dead grass and encourages new growth. Overseeding, fertilizer, and consistent watering will help regrowth. But if the damage is extensive, you may want to consider new sod.

Snow Mold

Another common issue that arises this time of year is snow mold. This will show up as matted, gray or pink patches after the snow melts. To get rid of it, gently rake the affected areas to improve airflow and promote healthy growth. If you find damage under the mold, you could aerate and overseed to get the area looking its best.

Thin/Dead Patches

If your lawn has smaller bare patches from winter damage, overseeding is one of the most effective ways to restore it. Spreading fresh grass seed improves density, fills in weak areas, and helps crowd out weeds before they can take hold. For best results, lightly rake the soil before seeding and keep the area consistently moist as the new grass establishes. If your lawn needs more extensive repair, fresh sod can be the fastest way to bring it back to life and restore a uniform, healthy appearance. 

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Once the soil is warm and you’ve fixed any damage, here are the actions you can take to make sure your lawn looks great this spring:

  • Fertilizer: Early spring is the perfect time to feed your lawn after a long winter. Applying a balanced fertilizer helps promote healthy root growth, improves color, and encourages thicker turf. A well fed lawn not only looks better but is also more resistant to weeds, disease, and stress throughout the season.
  • Aeration: While fall is the ideal time for aeration, spring aeration can still benefit lawns that feel hard, drain poorly, or struggle with uneven growth. After a few months of snow and foot traffic, soil can become compacted, making it harder for grass roots to grow. Aeration helps loosen the soil and allows water, oxygen, and nutrients to penetrate deeper.
  • Remove Thatch and Debris: A layer of debris and thatch can build up over winter, blocking sunlight and nutrients from reaching your grass. After the snow is gone and your lawn is dry, gently rake away leaves, sticks, and matted grass to improve overall lawn health. (But avoid being too aggressive this early in the season!)
  • Check Your Equipment: Before mowing season begins, take the time to check your lawn equipment. Sharp lawn mower blades ensure a clean cut, while setting the mowing height to around 2.5 to 3 inches will encourage healthy growth.
  • Water: Spring often brings rain, but it’s still important to prepare for consistent watering as temps rise. Check your sprinkler system for proper coverage and leaks, and plan to water deeply – and less frequently – to encourage strong root systems.

Trust the Soil Temperature Instead of the Calendar

One of the most important (and overlooked) factors in spring lawn care is soil temperature. Many homeowners jump into lawn treatments based on the calendar, but if the ground isn’t ready it will make a major difference in results. For example, crabgrass prevention is most effective after the soil warms up and the soil temperatures reach 50 – 55ºF consistently. Applying too early reduces effectiveness, while applying too late allows crabgrass to germinate. A good rule of thumb is to watch for steady temperatures over several days, not just a single warm afternoon, but if you want to be sure, you can track real-time soil temperatures here. 

Get Your Lawn In Ship Shape for the Season

By addressing damage, using proper timing, and with a little preparation, you can set the stage for a lush, green yard all season long. B&B Hoffman Sod Farms understands the unique challenges of growing and maintaining lawns in Minnesota. Whether you need help repairing damage, improving your lawn’s health, or starting fresh with new sod, our team is here to help. Contact us today at 763-434-6572 to answer your lawn questions or to help get your lawn ready for spring.

Winter on a Minnesota Sod Farm: What Happens to Your Grass?

When you live in Minnesota, winter isn’t just a season, it’s a lifestyle. At B&B Hoffman Sod Farms, we get a lot of questions about what happens to grass once the snow flies. Does it survive? Does it die? Do we start over every spring? Let’s walk through what really happens to sod during a Minnesota winter.

How Do We Prepare Our Sod for Winter? 

Fall is one of the most important times of year for natural grass health. Before freeze-up, we:

  • Apply a late-season winterizer fertilizer to strengthen root systems
  • Continue mowing until growth naturally slows
  • Slightly lower the final cut height
  • Ensure proper field drainage to prevent ice damage

Strong roots going into winter are the key to healthy, harvest-ready sod in spring.

What Happens to Grass During a Minnesota Winter?

Once soil temperatures drop into the low 40s, our cool-season grasses go dormant. The blades turn brown, but the crown and roots remain alive beneath the surface.

When the ground freezes, growth stops completely, — but the plant is essentially in hibernation. Under consistent snow cover, grass is actually insulated and protected.

The biggest stressors for grass in winter? Ice sheets, repeated freeze-thaw cycles, and poor drainage.

Does Sod Survive Freezing Temperatures?

Yes, absolutely!

We grow hardy, cold-tolerant perennial natural grass varieties specifically selected for Minnesota’s climate. We do not have to replant our fields every spring, but we do replant after each harvest. The natural grass we plant after each harvest will have established before the end of the growing season and come back ready for spring!

If we had to regrow everything each spring, we’d never keep up!

@shellyhoffmanwatt

♬ Cold - Chris Stapleton

Do Winter Conditions Affect Sod Quality?

They can.

Extended ice cover, poor drainage, or heavy snow mold pressure may thin natural grass in isolated areas. That’s why fall preparation is so critical.

A steady snow blanket is actually beneficial. Ice buildup is what causes the most damage.

Can Newly Laid Sod Survive Winter? 

Yes! Sod installed late in the fall will succeed, even if it hasn’t fully rooted before freeze-up. The key factors for survival are:

  • Proper soil preparation
  • Good soil-to-sod contact
  • Avoiding heavy foot traffic

Even if rooting is minimal before freeze-up, sod will establish once soil temperatures warm in spring.

What Are the Best Grass Varieties for Cold Climates?

Not all grass is created equal – especially in Minnesota! 

We primarily grow blends bred specifically for Upper Midwest winters. Our farm grows and sells varieties of Kentucky bluegrass, which have excellent cold tolerance and recovery.

What Does a Sod Farm Do All Winter?

We may not be harvesting, but we’re busy:

  • Planning next season’s acreage
  • Ordering seed and inputs
  • Servicing equipment
  • Meeting with builders and contractors
  • Quoting spring pre-orders
  • Managing snow (because… Minnesota)

Winter is our planning season.

Can Homeowners Winterize Their Grass Like We Do?

Absolutely.!

Here’s what you can do:

  • Apply a late-fall winterizer fertilizer
  • Keep mowing until growth stops
  • Remove leaves before snowfall
  • Limit foot traffic on frozen grass

Good fall lawn prep makes a major difference in spring.

What Should You Avoid Doing in Winter to Keep Your Grass Safe?

Dormant grass is tougher than it looks, but it’s not indestructible. Keep your grass safe this winter: 

  • Avoid repeated walking on frozen grass
  • Don’t pile salt-heavy snow onto lawn areas
  • Don’t leave thick leaf mats under snow
  • Don’t assume brown grass is dead
When Can I Schedule Spring Sod Delivery?

You can schedule spring sod delivery as soon as the ground is thawed and conditions allow harvesting. Depending on frost depth and weather, sod harvesting will typically begin sometime iat the end of April.

Minnesota spring keeps everyone guessing, but we begin scheduling early.

How Should I Plan Now for Spring Sod Installation?

Winter is actually the perfect time to measure your yard, plan grading or irrigation, and line up contractors before everyone else gets the same idea. Spring schedules fill quickly once the snow melts.

———–

To get on our spring schedule or to ask us your grass questions, give us a call at 763-434-6572 today! We’ll be ready for sod season as soon as Minnesota is.


 

Common Winter Lawn Damage (And How to Prevent It In The First Place!)

Minnesota winters are tough – not just on people but on lawns as well. While your grass may look dormant under snow and ice, winter can cause real damage that shows up once spring arrives. Knowing what to watch for (and how to protect your lawn!) can make a big difference in how healthy your grass will be when spring finally arrives.

At B&B Hoffman Sod Farms, we grow sod specifically for the cold Minnesota climate, and we know firsthand how winter stress can affect lawns all across the state. Here’s what homeowners should know to protect their lawns during the coldest months.

Common Types of Winter Lawn Damage in Minnesota

❄️ Snow Mold 

Snow mold is one of the most common winter lawn issues in Minnesota. It appears as circular patches of gray or pinkish grass after the snow melts – especially in areas where snow piled up and lingered. (Think close to the street where shovels and snow plows dumped heaps of snow.)

Snow Mold Causes:

  • Heavy snow cover for long periods of time (unavoidable in Minnesota most winters!)
  • Excess thatch
  • Skipping end of season lawn care such as missing fall fertilizer or letting grass get too long
🌡️ Freeze-Thaw Damage

Minnesota’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles can stress your grass. When soil repeatedly freezes and thaws, it can push grass roots upward, exposing them to cold air and drying out the plant. This often leads to thinning turf, weak root systems, and delayed green-up in the spring.  

🧊 Ice Encapsulation

When melting snow refreezes, thick ice layers can form over your lawn. Like all plants, grass needs oxygen, a prolonged ice cover can suffocate turf, leading to dead patches once the ice finally melts. 

🐾 Winter Foot Traffic Damage

Walking, playing, or driving equipment over frozen or snow-covered grass can crush dormant grass blades and compact the soil. This damage often doesn’t show until spring when grass struggles to recover.

How to Protect Your Lawn During Winter

✅ Mow to the Right Hight Right Before the Snow Flies

Before winter sets in, mow your lawn slightly shorter than normal (around 2 – 2.5 inches). This helps prevent snow mold while still protecting the grass.

✅ Rake Leaves and Debris Away From Your Lawn

Leaves left on the lawn trap moisture and encourage mold growth. A clean lawn doesn’t just look nice, it’s necessary and one of the easiest ways to reduce damage.

✅ Avoid Winter Traffic

Limit foot traffic on frozen lawns. Create designated walk/play areas if needed to avoid compacting the soil and damaging the grass under the snow.

✅ Manage Snow Piles Carefully

Avoid piling snow repeatedly in the same areas, especially along driveways, sidewalks, and streetside curbs. Deep, long lasting snow increases the risk of snow mold and suffocating the grass.

✅ Choose Grass Built For Minnesota Winters 

One of the best ways to protect your lawn long-term is starting with the right grass. High-quality, Minnesota-grown sod is bred to withstand harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and snow cover better than other turf. At B&B Hoffman Sod Farms, our premium Kentucky bluegrass sod is grown locally and is durable, tolerant to cold, and builds strong roots to give your lawn a better chance to bounce back in spring.

Prepare Now for a Healthier Spring Lawn

Winter doesn’t have to mean lawn damage! Taking steps now helps protect your investment and sets the stage for a lush, green lawn once Minnesota warms up again. (We promise, it will eventually be warm again! If winter has taken a toll on your lawn or you’re planning ahead for spring, B&B Hoffman Sod Farms is here to help with premium, Minnesota-friendly sod, seed, and fertilizers and expert guidance you can rely on. Contact us today at 763-434-6572 to learn more about our sod and how to give your lawn the strongest possible start in the spring. 

Go Touch Some Grass… Even In Winter

You’ve probably heard the phrase “go touch grass”, a friendly reminder to unplug, step outside, and reconnect with the real world. But during a Minnesota winter, when lawns are blanketed in snow and our sod fields are resting for the season, actually touching grass isn’t always an option. That doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the outdoors, reset your mindset, and start planning for a greener future. At B&B Hoffman Sod Farm, winter is a time for rest, reflection, and preparation for both – people and lawns.

Winter Is Nature’s Reset Button

Just like we tend to slow down in the colder months, grass does too. Beneath the snow, healthy turfgrass enters dormancy, conserving energy and protecting its root system until warmer temperatures return. This natural cycle is essential for producing high-quality sod, strong root development, and resilient lawns.

At our sod farm, winter gives our fields time to recover so we can deliver premium sod when spring arrives. The work doesn’t stop… it simply shifts behind the scenes.

How to “Touch Grass” in Winter (Without the Grass)

Even when you can’t see your lawn, winter is still the perfect season to unplug and reconnect:

  • Take winter walks and enjoy fresh air
  • Spend time outdoors without screens
  • Appreciate the quiet beauty of dormant landscapes
  • Enjoy quality time with friends and family
  • Plan next year’s lawn improvements

Being present outdoors (even without green grass) helps reset your mind and prepare for the active growing season ahead.

Spring Will Be Here Before You Know It

You may not be able to touch grass today, but you can prepare for it. When winter fades and green returns, B&B Hoffman Sod will be ready with premium sod, expert guidance, quality fertilizer, and reliable grass seed to help your lawn thrive.

Until then, enjoy the slower pace, unplug when you can, and know that greener days are already growing beneath the snow.

Planning Now for Better Sod Later

While you’re waiting to touch real grass again, winter is a great time to plan your sod installation or lawn renovation. Whether you’re installing new sod or overseeding in spring, preparation matters.

Now is a great time to start thinking ahead about:

Winter is also a great time to stock up on fertilizer and grass seed so you’re ready as soon as the weather allows. Using the right fertilizer helps support root growth and nutrient uptake during early spring, while high-quality grass seed can fill in thin areas and enhance lawn density.

Early planning leads to stronger roots, faster establishment, and a healthier lawn once temperatures rise.

Ready to Plan Your Lawn for Spring?

Contact B&B Hoffman Sod Farm at 763-434-6572 today to learn more about our sod farm, available sod varieties, fertilizer options, and grass seed. We’ll help you get ready to touch grass again as soon as the snow melts. In the meantime, we hope you get outside to enjoy the fun of a Minnesota winter!



Prepare Your Lawn for Winter: B&B Hoffman Sod’s Guide to Cold-Weather Lawn Care

As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, it’s time to give your lawn a little extra care before winter sets in. Winterizing your lawn properly helps protect your grass from cold weather damage and sets you up for a greener, healthier lawn next spring. Whether you recently installed all new sod or you already have an established yard, a few simple steps can make all the difference.

Keep Mowing 

As the growing season slows, continue mowing your lawn until it stops actively growing. (Sorry, you’re not off the hook yet!) Gradually lower your mower height in the final few cuts, but never cut more than ⅓ of the height at once or you could cause stress to the grass. Shorter grass helps prevent snow mold and other winter diseases while keeping your lawn looking neat before the snow arrives.

Pro tip: Aim for a final cutting height of about 2 to 2.5 inches.

Rake and Remove Leaves

Fallen leaves can suffocate your grass and trap moisture, creating the perfect conditions for mold and pests. Rake up or mulch leaves regularly to allow your lawn to breathe before it goes dormant. A clean yard now means a stronger lawn in the spring.

Feed Your Lawn One Last Time

Late fall is the ideal time to fertilize. A slow-release, nitrogen-rich fertilizer helps strengthen grass roots and store nutrients that carry your lawn through winter dormancy. This fall feeding gives your sod a head start once temperatures warm up again.

Pro tip: You can purchase the same high-quality fertilizer we use on our farm!

Water Until the Ground Freezes

Your lawn still needs water, even as the weather cools down. Keep watering your grass until the ground freezes to help your sod store moisture and nutrients before winter dormancy. If you’ve installed new sod this fall, maintaining consistent moisture is especially important for root establishment.

Pro Tip: Don’t blow out your sprinkler system too early! If you’ve already shut down your irrigation system, make sure to hook up a garden hose and sprinkler to make sure your lawn is properly watered before going dormant for the season.

Avoid Heavy Traffic on Frozen Grass

Once your lawn freezes, it becomes more fragile. Try to limit walking or driving on frozen grass to prevent breaking grass blades and compacting the soil. If you have pets or kids, consider setting up a designated pathway to protect your turf during the snowy months.

Plan Ahead for Spring

Proper winterization is one of the best ways to ensure a lush, green yard once spring arrives. If you’ve been thinking about adding new sod or repairing bare spots, plan your spring sod order early with B&B Hoffman Sod so you’re ready to roll out fresh, healthy grass as soon as the weather cooperates.

Pro Tip: You don’t have to wait until spring to set up your lawn for success! You can lay sod all the way until the ground freezes this fall.

Give Your Lawn the Care It Deserves

You may think that you’re already done with your lawn care for the season, but a little prep now pays off later. By mowing, fertilizing, watering, and protecting your grass before the freeze, you’re setting the stage for a vibrant, mud-free, and healthy spring lawn. B&B Hoffman Sod is here to help you every step of the way, from installation to long-term care. Visit our website or give us a call at 763-434-6572 to learn more about our premium Kentucky Blue Grass, get fall lawn care tips, and how to prepare your yard for winter.


It’s Not Too Late! Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Lay Sod

When it comes to laying sod, most people think it can only be done in the spring and summer seasons. But did you know that you can successfully install sod all the way up until the ground is frozen? That means late fall (and sometimes even early winter!) is still an excellent time to transform your yard with fresh sod. B&B Hoffman Sod Farm is still open for the season and ready for you to get your lawn ready to look great this spring!

Why Late-Season Sod Works So Well

As long as the ground isn’t frozen, sod can still take root. Cooler temperatures actually help prevent stress on new grass, and with the right care, it will be ready to green up beautifully in the spring. You’ll need access to a hose and sprinkler system, so if you’re planning to sod before the end of the season, don’t blow out your irrigation lines just yet. But don’t worry! If you’ve already shut down your sprinkler system for the season, simply hook up a garden hose and sprinkler to keep your sod watered until the ground naturally freezes.

Avoid the Springtime Mud Pit!

One of the biggest perks of installing sod now is skipping the dreaded spring mud season. If your lawn has patchy spots, that bare soil plus melting snow will bring muddy footprints, messy paws, and endless cleaning. By putting down sod now, you’ll create a stable, grass-covered yard that’s ready to go as soon as the weather warms up (no mud boots required!).

Perfect for Families (and Puppies!)

Thinking about adding a puppy to the family this Christmas? Or do you have little ones eager to play outside at the first hint of spring? Laying sod now means they’ll have a dry, grassy space to enjoy instead of a muddy mess that gets tracked through your home.

Get Ahead of Next Season

Installing sod in late fall is like giving your yard a head start. You’ll avoid the stress and mess of spring seeding, and your lawn will be established and ready for use sooner. So don’t wait until spring! If the ground isn’t frozen, it’s not too late to sod! Call B&B Hoffman Sod at 763-434-6572 and roll out that lush green carpet to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful lawn before the season is over – and to avoid that springtime mud!

How Late Can I Lay Sod in Minnesota?

As summer winds down in Minnesota, many homeowners assume the window for installing sod has closed. But here’s the truth: you can successfully lay sod well into the fall season in Minnesota. Depending on the weather, you can lay sod through October and sometimes even into November, and early fall is actually one of the best times of the year to install! B&B Hoffman Sod is here to discuss how cooler weather and natural conditions set your new grass up for success, so you can enjoy a lush, healthy yard next spring.

Why Fall Is Ideal for Sod Installation in Minnesota:

Cooler Temperatures Mean Less Stress

Unlike the intense heat of summer, Minnesota’s fall weather provides mild, consistent temperatures that are much gentler on sod. This allows the grass to focus on root development instead of battling dehydration and heat stress.

More Reliable Moisture

Fall typically brings more frequent and steady rainfall, which is essential for helping sod take root. Combined with cooler weather, this reduces how often and how much you’ll need to water, saving both time and effort while ensuring proper establishment.

Fewer Weeds to Compete With

Luckily, weeds naturally slow down in the fall. This gives your sod a head start, so it can grow strong without being crowded out by dandelions or crabgrass.

Healthy Soil Conditions

By autumn, Minnesota’s soil has cooled from the summer heat, creating the perfect environment for sod roots to establish. Cooler soil not only encourages growth but also helps reduce the risk of disease that thrives in hot, humid weather.

How Late Is Too Late to Sod in Minnesota?

The general rule is simple: as long as the ground isn’t frozen, you can lay sod. Most years in Minnesota, that means sod installation is possible well into October and sometimes even in November. The earlier you install, the better chance your sod will have to develop roots before winter. Don’t worry if winter shows up unexpectedly before your sod takes root! Sod will go dormant and take off in the spring. 

Pro tip: Keep in mind you will need a water source if you choose to install sod late in the season. November can still be warm enough to have to water and mow, so if you’ve already shut down your irrigation system, make sure to manually water your new sod!

Tips for Successful Fall Sod Installation

  Timing: You can lay sod through October and into November so long as the ground isn’t frozen! Since you never know what the weather will bring, aim to lay sod early to mid-fall. 

  Prepare Your Yard: Remove debris, level the soil, and loosen compacted areas for better root contact.

 Water Regularly: Even in cooler temps, sod needs consistent moisture to take hold. Don’t rely only on rainfall; Make sure your sod gets adequate watering until it’s established.

  Limit Foot Traffic: Keep kids, pets, and heavy use off your new sod until you’ve mowed it at least once. 

  Work with a Professional Sod Supplier: High-quality sod makes all the difference. That’s where B&B Hoffman Sod comes in.

By following our installation and maintenance advice, your sod will take root and look amazing! B&B Hoffman Sod is available to help answer any questions regarding your new sod. Call us at 763-434-6572 or send us an email. We’re happy to ensure your lawn always looks its best!

Pro tip: October is the ideal time to winterize your lawn with a nutrient-rich fertilizer. B&B Hoffman Sod sells the same premium fertilizers we use on our own farm, so you can make sure your lawn will continue to look lush and green long after installation.

Get Your Minnesota Sod Installed Before Winter

Don’t wait until spring! Fall sod installation in Minnesota gives your yard a head start for next season. By laying sod now, you’ll avoid the heat stress of summer, minimize weed competition, and ensure your lawn is ready to turn green and vibrant the moment the snow melts.

B&B Hoffman Sod has been helping Minnesota homeowners and businesses with high-quality sod for decades. Whether you need to install sod for a new build, refresh a tired lawn, or repair problem areas, fall is the perfect season to do it. Contact us today at 763-434-6572 to schedule your sod installation before the ground freezes. Your lawn will thank you come spring!



Waking Up Your Lawn: Spring Tips from B&B Hoffman Sod

Spring is in the air, and that means it’s almost time for backyard BBQs, outdoor games, and sunny afternoons! Spring also means the winter break from yard work is over. B&B Hoffman Sod has some springtime tips to help your grass wake from its winter nap and start looking green and healthy again. 

Start with a Gentle Rake

Once your yard has dried out a bit and isn’t wet or mushy, give it a light raking* to remove dead grass and debris. This helps get fresh air down to the roots, which encourages new growth and jumpstarts your lawn’s recovery. 

*Pro Tip: be careful not to rake too aggressively while the grass is still waking up—you want to revive it, not rip it out.

Time for Fertilizer

Give your yard a glow up! Fertilizer is a vitamin boost your yard needs to look and feel its best. Applying fertilizer every 4–6 weeks throughout the season* can make a huge difference, helping your grass grow thicker, greener, and healthier than ever. 

*Pro-Tip: April, May, and June are the prime growing months to get the most benefit from fertilizer.

Prevent Weeds With Pre-Emergent

When the ground temperature reaches a consistent 50–55°F, it’s the perfect time to apply a pre-emergent herbicide*. This helps prevent crabgrass and other pesky weeds before they have a chance to sprout. Don’t miss this timing—it’s one of the most important steps for a weed-free yard all season! 

*Pro Tip: Fertilize first, make sure to water well, and apply pre-emergent 4 days later. You can buy the same fertilizers used by B&B Hoffman Sod Farms! Contact us for details.  

Patch Up Pet Damage

Did your homeowners association give you a deadline to fix pet damage to your grass? If your furry friend wasn’t so friendly to your lawn over the winter, we’ve got you covered! We’ll be opening soon for sod pickup, so you can easily replace those worn-out patches and bring your lawn back to life. Our high-quality sod blends in beautifully and gets your yard back in shape fast (and keeps the HOA happy). 

*Pro Tip: If pet damage is minimal but you have some patchy areas that you’d like to seed, we sell the same sod-quality seed used for growing our sod!

Following these tips now will help your yard look its best all summer long! Need help or have questions? Call 763-434-6572 or email office@bbhoffmansod—we’re always happy to help you grow your best lawn yet.



How Does Your Lawn Survive Winter?

Winter can be a tough time for your lawn, especially in cold climates like Minnesota. As the temperatures drop, your once lush, green lawn will turn brown and seem bare, and you might even wonder if it’s dead. Fear not! This natural process is known as dormancy—a survival mechanism that helps your grass survive the cold winter months. Let’s take a closer look at what happens to sod during winter and why dormancy is actually a good thing for your lawn’s health.

What Is Dormancy and How Does Grass Prepare for Winter?

Dormancy is when plants and grass slow their metabolic processes to conserve energy and survive harsh conditions. The dormancy process is crucial for survival in regions with cold winters (like here in Minnesota). As the weather cools, grass enters a state of rest where growth stops, and resources are conserved until warmer temperatures return in spring. This process is a natural defense mechanism, allowing grass to survive freezing temperatures and snow cover without needing to actively grow.

What Happens to Grass in Winter?

As winter sets in, the energy needed for new shoots or leaves is reserved. During the dormancy period, the grass may turn brown, but the roots remain alive and protected underground. Though the grass blades appear dormant above the soil, the root system continues to stay active—although at a much slower rate—ensuring that the grass can “wake up” when the weather warms up in spring.

The Role of Snow as Insulation

Love it or hate it, Minnesota typically gets a decent blanket of snow each winter. Snow isn’t just pretty (or annoying if you’re the one who has to shovel); it actually plays a vital role in protecting your lawn during the winter months. As snow accumulates on your lawn, it acts as a natural blanket, insulating the soil and helping to maintain more consistent soil temperatures. This protection prevents the roots from freezing solid, allowing them to remain viable through the colder months. Snow cover also helps to buffer temperature extremes, which can be especially beneficial during periods of thawing and refreezing.

Common Misconceptions About Dormant Grass

Many homeowners worry when their grass turns brown or seems to die off during the winter. It’s a common misconception that dormant grass is dead. In fact, brown grass is completely normal and is simply a sign that the plant is conserving energy and preparing to survive through winter. Dormant grass may appear lifeless, but it’s just taking a break! As long as the grass has been properly cared for leading into winter, it will rebound once the weather warms up. The key to a healthy lawn is making sure it’s well-prepared for dormancy by having strong roots going into the season. (Pro tip: See our previous blog posts for useful lawn care tips!)

Your Lawn Will Bounce Back in Spring

While your lawn may look brown and barren during the winter, dormancy is a necessary survival strategy. With the right care and preparation in the fall, your sod will emerge in the spring refreshed and ready to grow again. The roots will still be intact, and when temperatures rise, the grass will come out of dormancy, refreshed and ready to green up again. And don’t worry – when it’s time to wake your grass from its winter nap, B&B Hoffman Sod will be here with tips to make it lush and green!



New sod and lawn care.. In November?

The sprinklers may have been shut off or put away, and we have already had our first snow of the season, but it’s not too late to install new sod or to winterize your lawn. While that might sound crazy to some, B&B Hoffman Sod has tips for making sure your lawn is ready to look amazing once the snow melts in the spring.

It’s not too late to install new sod!

You might think that November is too late to install new sod, but yes – it is still possible to do this before winter! As long as the ground isn’t frozen and the temperatures cooperate with your plans, you can still install sod. Although roots may not establish this fall, they will in the spring. Keep in mind, you will still need a water source… think garden hose and sprinklers if you’ve blown out your sprinkler system. Contact B&B Hoffman Sod at 763-434-6572 to see if you can install our premium Kentucky Blue Grass before the snow flies!

Winterize the right way
  • Cover bare areas: If you’re not able to get your new sod installed before the ground freezes, make sure to cover the mud now rather than deal with it in the spring. Your floors will thank you once the snow melts and you’re not constantly cleaning up muddy paw prints or messes from kids playing outside in the warmer weather.
  • Mow one last time: Before you store the lawn mower for the winter, cut the grass short to prevent mold, fungus, or other threats to your lawn (and your allergies!). Long grass provides a cozy home for voles, mice, or other creepy crawlies to hide. Rodents and insects cause damage to lawns with their trails and holes, not to mention feasting on bulbs like tulips or irises. 
  • Use a winterizing fertilizer: Using a winter-specific fertilizer will ensure your lawn gets the nutrients it needs during the long, cold winter months. B&B Hoffman Sod sells the same fertilizer we use on our sod farm available for purchase. Contact us to ask about our fertilizer options. 

For more lawn care tips, explore our previous blog posts for all things sod, grass, and fertilizer! If you would like to get sod before winter, reach out to us at office@bbhoffmansod.com or by calling 763-434-6572 to see if installing this fall is still possible for your lawn.