Lawn Care Guide for Winnebago County
Winnebago County, Wisconsin
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Winnebago County, Wisconsin
Favorable conditions near the water
Winnebago County scores a 68.6 for lawn difficulty, outperforming the state average of 64.4. Its location in Hardiness Zone 5b provides a stable climate for a variety of lawn styles and grass types. Homeowners here typically find it easier to keep their yards green than the average American.
Slightly drier with steady heat
The county averages 31.9 inches of rain, which is lower than the Wisconsin state average of 34.5 inches. Despite being drier, the 2,630 growing degree days and 7 extreme heat days provide a very productive environment for turf. Grass starts growing quickly after the April 30 spring frost.
Well-drained silt loam foundation
The soil pH of 5.92 is just slightly below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, requiring only minor adjustments for peak performance. Its well-drained silt loam texture, featuring 16.1% clay and 37.8% sand, provides an excellent balance for root health. This natural drainage reduces the risk of fungal diseases and waterlogging.
Currently facing dry conditions
The entire county is currently classified as abnormally dry, following 13 weeks of drought over the past year. Since annual rainfall is lower than the state average, supplemental watering is necessary to prevent browning during the summer. Use rain barrels or smart irrigation to manage water efficiently while keeping the lawn active.
Thriving in the 5b zone
Kentucky Bluegrass and Turf-Type Tall Fescue are the most recommended varieties for this region. You have a long growing window between April 30 and the first frost on October 20. Seeding in late August allows the grass to take advantage of cooler temperatures and autumn rains.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Recommended Grasses
Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
31.9"
Growing Degree Days
2,629.75
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
04/30
First Fall Frost
10/20
Days Above 95F
7
Hardiness Zone
5b
Seeding Calendar — Zone 5B
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
1.1"
inches of water
Monthly Water
3,423
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$27.39
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 32" 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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