As winter fades and temperatures begin to rise, your lawn starts waking up from dormancy. Spring is a critical time to lay the groundwork for a healthy, vibrant yard throughout the year. With a few strategic steps, you can jump-start your lawn’s growth and set the stage for a lush, green season ahead. Here’s a spring lawn care checklist to help you get started.
1. Clean Up Debris:
Begin by removing leaves, sticks, and any debris that may have accumulated over the winter. A thorough raking helps prevent mold and allows sunlight and air to reach the soil surface. This also gives you a chance to inspect your lawn for bare patches, pests, or signs of disease that may need attention.
2. Test and Treat Your Soil:
Healthy grass starts with healthy soil. Consider testing your soil’s pH and nutrient levels, especially if your lawn struggled the previous year. Based on the results, you can add lime to correct acidity or apply specific fertilizers to address nutrient deficiencies. Early spring is a great time to apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer to promote steady growth.
3. Aerate if Needed:
If your lawn sees heavy foot traffic or feels compacted, spring is a good time to aerate. Core aeration—removing small plugs of soil—helps improve airflow, water absorption, and nutrient penetration. This encourages deeper root growth and enhances overall lawn health.
4. Apply Pre-Emergent Weed Control:
To stay ahead of crabgrass and other weeds, apply a pre-emergent herbicide before soil temperatures consistently reach 55°F. This helps prevent weed seeds from germinating, giving your grass a competitive edge early in the season.
5. Mow Smart and Water Wisely:
As grass begins to grow, start mowing with sharp blades and follow proper mowing height guidelines for your grass type. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. Water deeply and infrequently, aiming for early morning sessions to reduce disease risk and promote strong roots.
Taking the time to prep your lawn in spring pays off all season long. With the right care and attention now, you’ll enjoy a greener, thicker, and more resilient yard well into summer and beyond. If you’re unsure where to begin or want a professional touch, consider scheduling a consultation with a local lawn care expert.