Fall is here! Your lawn might be covered with leaves this month, with snow soon to follow. However, if you're looking forward to a lush green lawn in the spring, fall preparations will go a long way.

"A great looking lawn in the spring starts with proper care and planning in the fall," says Bryan Taynor of Commercial Land Management Systems (CLMS), a trusted sponsor of Stroll Tartan Fields. "Not taking the proper steps can delay the health of the turf in the spring once it starts to grow again."

The professional experts at CLMS have provided some critical steps to prepare your lawn for fall and winter:

Fertilize: A late fall fertilization is always helpful before the turf goes dormant for the season.

Mow: Before winter, mow the lawn shorter than usual. Turf can become susceptible to snow mold if left long over the winter months. CLMS recommends setting the mower height to 2.5 inches. Don't be afraid to mulch up your leaves when you mow, as returning that organic matter to the soil will help the health of your lawn.

Aerate: Fall is the best time to aerate the lawn. Aerating will help relieve some compaction while allowing water and nutrients to penetrate the soil further and reach the lawn's roots.

Overseed: Fall is also an excellent time for seeding. Overseeding after aerating is typically recommended to help promote a healthier lawn in the spring.

If you need help preparing your lawn for winter, CLMS can assist with overseeding and aeration. Since 2006, this Plain City-based company has been helping customers achieve their landscape visions through long-term, coordinated, and informed approaches.

In addition to aeration and overseeding, CLMS offers shrub and ornamental care, mulch installation, seasonal color installation, seasonal clean-ups, and landscape enhancement services. CLMS customers rave about the company's friendly and professional service, workmanship, and commitment to excellence.