Feed Your Lawn: Fall fertilizing helps lawns establish vigorous roots, increase energy reserves and survive winter.

Overseed Thin Lawns: Fall conditions are ideal for germinating cool-season grass seed. Overseeding thin lawns pays off with thick, strong, spring grass. 

Repair Bare Spots: Fall temperatures and precipitation support quick establishment.

Remove Excess Thatch: That layer of organic matter that forms between soil and grass blades can benefit lawns when it's thin. But when that layer, known as thatch, builds up to more than 1/2 inch thick, it can limit the movement of water and nutrients and encourage disease. Dethatching can restore a healthy interface between grass and soil.

Aerate compacted Soil: Compacted soil restricts root development and limits soil oxygen. Aerators correct compaction by creating openings in the soil.

Apply top dressing: Topdressing means applying a thin layer of soil or compost to your existing turf. The process improves growing conditions by reducing thatch, increasing the amount of organic matter in the soil, smoothing bumps in the lawn, and lessening the need for fertilizer. Spread a ¼- to ½-inch layer of high-quality soil over the entire lawn, especially in problem areas where grass is thinning. Be sure to dethatch or aerate before you apply a topdressing during fall lawn care. Then work the topdressing into the soil by raking it in.

Keep Mowing: Continue with good mowing practices for your grass type, timed to grass growth instead of calendar days. Mowing grass slightly shorter than normal can be helpful where winter fungal diseases are problems, but don't save it for the end; gradually decrease the height instead.

Clean up Leaves: Leaves left unattended can suffocate lawn grasses and invite disease.