Fall Lawn Care: Prepping Your California Trimmer and Turf

As summer fades and cooler weather arrives in North Carolina, your lawn and your mower both need a little extra attention. Fall is the season to prepare your turf for winter and to get your California Trimmer ready for storage. The right steps now will protect your grass, extend the life of your mower, and make spring easier when it is time to mow again.

At Shields Reels in Charlotte and Lake Norman, we guide homeowners through the process every fall. Here’s a complete checklist to help you transition into the colder months.

Adjusting Cutting Height

One of the most important steps in fall is setting the right mowing height.

Why It Matters

• Leaving grass a little taller insulates roots

• Reduces stress during cooler, shorter days

• Helps turf store more energy for winter survival

How to Do It

Raise your California Trimmer slightly from the height you used in summer. Bermuda and Zoysia lawns do well with a small bump in height, giving them a better chance to bounce back strong in spring.

Timing the Last Mows of the Season

Many homeowners wonder when to stop mowing for the year. The answer depends on growth, not just the calendar.

Signs It’s Time for a Final Cut

• Grass growth slows significantly

• Soil temperatures consistently drop

• Leaves begin to cover your yard

A final clean cut before winter reduces the chance of mold or fungus forming under fallen leaves.

Cleaning and Lubricating Your California Trimmer

Fall is also the time for a deep clean.

Step 1: Remove Debris

Clear away all clippings, dirt, and buildup. Avoid spraying water directly on the reel or bearings since moisture causes rust.

Step 2: Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply reel mower oil to shaft bearings, roller ends, and adjustment screws. Proper lubrication keeps the mower protected through months of storage.

Step 3: Check Blades and Hardware

Tighten bolts, inspect belts, and backlap the reel if needed. A sharp blade stored clean will be ready to perform in spring.

Protecting Your Lawn Through the Season

Fall lawn care is not just about mowing. It is about setting your turf up for success.

Key Tips

• Remove leaves regularly: Wet, heavy leaves block sunlight and encourage disease.

• Fertilize lightly: A fall fertilizer helps grass store nutrients for winter.

• Water as needed: Don’t assume cooler weather means your lawn no longer needs water.

Taking these small steps makes your lawn healthier and easier to maintain when warmer weather returns.

Storing Your Mower Properly

Once your last mow is finished and your California Trimmer is clean and lubricated, storage is the final step.

• Store indoors in a dry, covered space if possible

• Use a protective cover if your mower is kept outdoors

• Make sure it is positioned on a flat surface

At Shields Reels, we carry weatherproof covers and can walk you through proper storage techniques so your mower stays in top condition.

Final Thoughts

Fall lawn care is about preparation. Adjusting mowing height, giving your lawn a final clean cut, and properly maintaining your California Trimmer will pay off when spring arrives.

At Shields Reels, we are more than a California Trimmer dealer—we are your local partner for year-round lawn care. Visit us in Charlotte and Lake Norman for fall maintenance supplies, expert advice, and free demos that show you how to get the best from your mower in every season.

Your turf will thank you next spring.