Lawn Care Guide for Winona County
Winona County, Minnesota
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Winona County, Minnesota
Prime Growing Conditions in the Southeast
Winona County is a premier spot for lawn care with an exceptional difficulty score of 83.8. This Hardiness Zone 4b region benefits from abundant moisture and a very favorable growing environment compared to the state average.
High Rainfall and Extended Growth
With 35.9 inches of annual precipitation, local lawns receive more water than the state average of 30.0 inches. The 2,920 growing degree days provide plenty of thermal energy for thick turf, even with 11 days of extreme heat.
Ideal pH for Nutrient Uptake
The soil pH of 6.47 is perfectly situated within the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for most turf species. With 17.8% clay and 28.1% sand, the soil structure is balanced enough to support healthy roots without frequent amendment.
Reliable Moisture Throughout the Year
Winona spent only 5 weeks in drought over the past year and currently has zero abnormally dry areas. This consistent moisture access makes Winona one of the most resilient counties in Minnesota for maintaining a green landscape.
A Long Window for Perfect Turf
The generous growing season runs from April 23rd all the way to October 19th. This nearly six-month window is the ideal time to seed Kentucky Bluegrass or perennial ryegrass for a thick, vibrant lawn.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Recommended Grasses
Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
35.9"
Growing Degree Days
2,920.42
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
04/23
First Fall Frost
10/19
Days Above 95F
11
Hardiness Zone
4b
Seeding Calendar — Zone 4B
Seasonal Lawn Care Checklist
Spring
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil reaches 55F
- Overseed bare spots once frost risk passes
- 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
- Core aerate compacted areas
- Apply fall fertilizer (highest N application for cool-season)
- Continue mowing until growth stops
- Rake or mulch leaves to prevent smothering
Winter
- Avoid walking on frozen turf
- Service mower and sharpen blades
- Plan spring soil amendments based on fall test
- Keep lawn clear of debris
Watering Deficit Calculator
Monthly Deficit
0.8"
inches of water
Monthly Water
2,564
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$20.51
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 36" 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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