Spring is on its way! As we transition from winter to spring, now is the perfect time to start thinking about your lawn care routine. After all, a little bit of preparation now will go a long way toward ensuring a healthy, green lawn all season. Here are some spring lawn care tasks to tackle before summer rolls around.
Spring Lawn Care Tasks for a Healthy Lawn
Springtime is a great time to get your lawn in shape! Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Inspect
Inspect your lawn for signs of damage. Look for dead patches of grass, bare spots, or areas where the grass isn’t growing as thick and luscious as you’d like. These areas will need some extra attention come springtime.
Rake
Start raking up leaves and debris. The sooner you get rid of these items, the better. Not only do they make your lawn look messy, but they can also kill the grass if left unchecked.
Soil Test
Test your soil pH levels and add amendments as necessary. Most grasses prefer a soil pH between 6 and 7—slightly acidic is best. You can test your soil with a simple at-home kit or by sending a sample to your local cooperative extension office.
Fertilize
Fertilize your lawn if necessary. However, every lawn is different, so consult a professional before applying fertilizer to yours. A good rule of thumb is to fertilize in early spring (just as the grass is starting to green up), late spring (after the first round of growth), and early fall (before the first frost).
Reseed
Reseed any thin or bare spots in your lawn. Once you’ve removed all the dead grass, it’s time to start fresh by seeding these areas with new seedlings. Be sure to choose a grass variety that suits your climate and soil type—your local nursery or cooperative extension office can help you make this decision.
Aerate
Aerate your lawn if necessary. Aeration involves punching small holes into the ground to improve air circulation and root growth. This is particularly important if you live in an area with compacted soils or your lawn gets a lot of foot traffic.
Mow
Start mowing as soon as the grass starts growing again. Set your mower blades high first, then gradually lower them as the season progresses. This will encourage deep, strong roots that can withstand heat, drought, and disease better. Plus, it’ll give your lawn a nice, clean look. Just be sure not to cut more than one-third of the grass blade.
Water
And last but not least, don’t forget about watering! Proper watering is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn. Be sure to water deeply and infrequently so the roots have time to grow deep into the soil. A good rule of thumb is to water for 30 minutes three times per week. If you have an automatic sprinkler system, adjust it accordingly.
These simple tips can give your lawn the nourishment it needs to thrive all spring and summer! A little preparation will save you plenty of time and headaches later.
Springing Ahead with Professional Lawn Care Services
Leave the hard work to the professionals, and make sure your lawn is ready for spring! Contact Nichols Reliable Lawn Care & More if you live in Northwest Arkansas and are looking for reliable lawn care services. We would love to help you get your lawn on track for a healthy and happy summer!