When Spring arrives, there is a lot of work that needs to be done so you can be proud of your lawn and enjoy its beauty the remainder of the year. This is the time to get the lawn ready for the growing season. The exact timing depends on the climate in your region. An indicator is when trees and brushes start producing their buds. Once that starts, there are several tasks a homeowner needs to start doing:
Rake the yard – The first thing that needs to be done is remove the old dead grass and leaves in the yard. This can be done by either raking and/or mowing/bagging the mainly dead turfgrass in the yard. Doing this allows new green grass to appear. Not removing the old grass could create health issues for your new grass and will make difficult for new grass to penetrate the thatch and cause matted patches.
Aerate the lawn - Lawn aeration creates openings in the soil to allow water and air to penetrate which reaches the grass roots. This is especially needed where there is heavy traffic on the lawn. Probably the cheapest way to accomplish this is to rent a lawn aerator. Normally, the fall season is the ideal time to aerate not the spring season. Aerating during the spring season creates holes in soil which allows weed seeds to germinate more easily. If you, do it in the spring, then do it late spring, such as Memorial Day.
Soil sample – If you see moss covering the ground, this is a sign you have acidic soil. Probably the first thing you need to do is take a soil sample and have it tested at your local cooperative extension office. Once tested they are likely to recommend the use of lime and get their advice on how much lime should be applied using a fertilizer spreader. Using lime is a corrective measure not a preventive measure.
Seeding - Where there are bare spots in the yard, need to apply an application of grass seed sowing over existing grass. Prefer time of year for spreading grass seed is the fall. Then apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer in those areas. Make sure those areas receive sufficient watering so the grass will germinate. Approximately 5 weeks later apply quick-release nitrogen fertilizer. Finally, you may have to deal with ridding crabgrass.
Fertilize – Important to fertilize the at least 2 or 3 times a year. This can be done by using compost and mulching mower or using chemical fertilizers that purchase from a store. Be careful to use the right fertilizer recommended for your area and do not over fertilize.
Herbicides – If you desire a weed-free lawn, springtime lawn care is about weed prevention and creating a healthy lawn. Depending on whether the weeds that need to control are either annual or perennial, you will need to use preemergent or post-emergent herbicide. If there is crabgrass, consider using both and follow the directions when to use each.
Lawn mower – Every spring, need to start your lawn mower. Many times, starting it at the beginning of season is difficult. This is normal. After you get it started let it run for a short period of time. There are several things you need to do to ready the mower for the season: change the oil, air filter, and sharpen the blade. If the mower continues to be difficult to start, change the spark plug, and if necessary, take it to a repairman.
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