As winter draws to a close and the mercury starts to rise, many homeowners begin to dust off their summer landscaping plans. Attaining the desired results will depend on how you get your yard ready for the upcoming season. The following spring yard preparation procedures are a must, regardless of the local geography and climate conditions in your area.
Clearing Away Debris & Blockages
Giving the grass a thorough raking as soon as the snow melts is always a good idea. Gather up dead leaves, clippings, and any other organic material you come across and create a compost heap to generate rich soil. Clear drainage ditches and culprits of obstructions that will impede lawn drainage.
Aerating Soil at the Proper Time
Generally speaking, aeration should be performed in the fall. However, spring lawn aeration can also be beneficial when done correctly. Once the threat of frost has passed, cut the lawn short and run a mechanical core aerator with hollow spines over it. Warm-season grasses like Zoysia or Bermuda benefit the most from spring aeration.
Trimming Tree Limbs and Shrubs
Spring is the best time to literally clear away dead wood for the good of your trees and shrubs around the yard. Cut down any damaged or dying branches and prune ornamentals as you see fit. If you’re not exactly knowledgeable in this department, it’s worth it to spend a few bucks on professional tree pruning service. Companies like Pete & Ron’s Tree Service can also help you get rid of damaged roots or stumps you need to manage.
Fertilizing for Healthier Fauna
If your lawn is looking a little worse for wear, a lack of nutrients is probably the problem. Use an organic 5-10-10 fertilizer sparingly to breathe new life into your turf. Give your perennials a little fertilizer love as well while you’re at it. Just make sure you don’t go overboard.
Nipping Unwanted Growth in the Bud
Pesky weeds like crabgrass will ruin the look of a lawn and can be extremely difficult to eliminate once they’re established. Using a mild pre-emergent herbicide to target the problem is an effective tactic for the vast majority of lawns and flower beds. Alternatively, over-seeding the lawn later on can crowd out invasive weeds.
The Early Birds Always Get the Worm
If you’re willing to spend a weekend or two laying the groundwork, your lawn will thrive throughout the summer and fall. Take the aforementioned tips and modify them based on your property, and the prevailing weather conditions for superior outcomes. Your lawn will thank you for the extra effort.
