leaves and grass and rake

Everything You Need to Know to Ace Spring Yard and Lawn Care

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Spring cleaning is a task usually associated with inside the home. However, after the harsh winter weather it’s good to get into a habit of outdoor spring clean-up and care as well.

1. Winter Debris Cleanup

  • Pick up fallen branches and remove the small rocks from the lawn that could damage mower blades or get flung at nearby vehicles or home windows.

2. Rake

  • One of the best things you can do for your lawn is to give it a solid raking to break up the thatching that will block water, fertilizer, and oxygen from reaching the root system. The best time to rake is right when the grass begins to green up.

3. Service Your Lawn Mower

  • Changing the oil, replacing the spark plug, checking on the air filter, and sharpening the blade will make the whole lawn mowing season ahead a breeze.

4. Aerate

  • If your soil and lawn has been compacted in heavy traffic areas, aerating will allow water and air to reach roots.

5. Test the Soil

  • The Cornell Cooperative Extension can test your soil’s pH. For acidic soil, add lime to your lawn. For alkaline soil, it’s best to add sulfur.

6. Overseed

  • Fill in bare spots and thicken your lawn by throwing seed down over existing grass. 

8. Fertilize

  • Fertilizing not only helps your grass grow but inhibits weeds and diseases.

9. Water

  • If we have a season with plenty of spring showers this step can be skipped. But, if you are applying seed and fertilizer in the spring, check the directions about if and when you need to water.

One last word. We know that most people want to eliminate dandelions. But remember, they are the honeybees first food of the season. 

Got lawn questions? We’re always here to help create landscape designs that work for your lifestyle.