Lawn Care Guide for Dearborn County
Dearborn County, Indiana
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Dearborn County, Indiana
Top-Tier Lawn Growing Conditions
Dearborn County is a standout with a lawn difficulty score of 80.2, far exceeding both state and national averages. Its Zone 6b climate provides one of the most hospitable environments for turf in Indiana.
Mild Summers and Plentiful Rain
The county experiences only 7 extreme heat days, much fewer than the state average of 20. Combined with 47.5 inches of annual precipitation, lawns here enjoy a gentle climate that minimizes summer dormancy.
Excellent Silt Loam Foundation
The moderately well-drained silt loam soil features a 6.22 pH, falling right in the sweet spot for grass health. This soil type naturally retains the nutrients and moisture needed for a lush, thick carpet of green.
Low Drought Vulnerability
With only 4 weeks in drought over the last year, Dearborn County remains relatively lush. Only 42.6% of the area is currently abnormally dry, meaning basic conservation practices are usually enough to maintain health.
Perfect Window for Seeding
Cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass are ideal for this temperate 6b climate. Plan your seeding between the last spring frost on April 30 and the first fall frost on October 16 for the best establishment.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Soil Summary
pH
6.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Recommended Grasses
Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
47.5"
Growing Degree Days
3,074.6
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
04/30
First Fall Frost
10/16
Days Above 95F
7
Hardiness Zone
6b
Seeding Calendar — Zone 6B
Seasonal Lawn Care Checklist
Spring
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil reaches 55F
- Begin mowing when grass reaches 3 inches
- Start irrigation if rainfall is below 1 inch/week
- Soil test every 2-3 years — adjust lime or sulfur as needed
Summer
- Mow at recommended height weekly
- Water deeply 1-2 times per week (1 inch total)
- Avoid fertilizing cool-season grasses in peak heat
- Scout for grubs and treat if >10 per sq ft
Fall
- Overseed warm-season lawns if thinning
- Apply fall fertilizer (highest N application for cool-season)
- Continue mowing until growth stops
- Rake or mulch leaves to prevent smothering
Winter
- Apply pre-emergent for winter weeds
- Service mower and sharpen blades
- Plan spring soil amendments based on fall test
- Keep lawn clear of debris
Watering Deficit Calculator
Monthly Deficit
0.0"
inches of water
Monthly Water
0
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$0.00
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 47" annual precipitation and estimated evapotranspiration. Actual costs vary by local water rates.
Want detailed soil composition, drainage classes, and soil series data? View soil details on SoilByCounty.com
Data sourced from USDA SSURGO, NOAA Climate Normals (1991-2020), USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and US Drought Monitor. Lawn difficulty scores and grass recommendations are estimates for informational purposes only.
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