Preparing your lawn for the winter months can be a tedious task.  However, you will want to take the following steps.  The hard work will be worth it come spring.

Aerate

Aerating your lawn will give it a chance to breathe before the grass goes dormant.  Aerating also helps break up any compact soil that prevents grass growth. 

Fertilize

Fertilizing gives your lawn the essential nutrients it needs as it prepares for the cold winter months.  The grass roots will absorb and store the needed nutrients for the winter.  Then, in the spring, your lawn will begin to use the stored nutrients, making it green and lush.  Fertilizing in the fall also helps your lawn fight weeds, pests, and diseases that sprout in the early spring. 

Clean Up Debris

A layer of dead grass and other material, known as thatch, can build up on the surface of the soil.  This buildup will encourage moss growth, prevent grass growth, and allow fungal disease to spread.  To avoid a yard of weeds and disease in the spring, leaves should be raked and debris removed from your yard before winter.

Pruning

Some perennials cannot handle the harsh, cold Nebraska weather, and need to be pruned back before winter.  Some common perennials that should be pruned in the fall include bearded irises, lilies, hostas, painted daisies, and sunflowers.

Avoid Excessive Lawn Traffic

When your lawn is frosted or dormant, try to avoid walking on it too much.  The strongest grass can become weak if it is in a path of heavy foot traffic.