Preparing Your Lawn for Spring & The First Mow
As the temperatures rise and signs of spring emerge, it’s time to prepare your lawn for a season of healthy growth. A well-prepared lawn will not only look great but will also be better equipped to handle the challenges of summer heat and potential drought. Here’s how to get your yard ready for the first mow of the season.
Step 1: Clean Up Winter Debris
Over the winter months, leaves, branches, and other debris can accumulate on your lawn. Clearing these away is the first step to ensuring your grass gets the sunlight, air, and nutrients it needs. Rake up leaves, remove sticks, and check for any areas where thatch (a layer of dead grass and organic material) has built up too thickly. If necessary, consider dethatching your lawn to promote healthy growth.
Step 2: Assess the Soil
Spring is an ideal time to test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. If your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, it can hinder grass growth. Most lawn care centers offer soil testing kits, or you can have a professional test done. Based on the results, you may need to apply lime to balance acidity or add fertilizers to boost essential nutrients.
Step 3: Aerate if Necessary
Compacted soil can prevent water, oxygen, and nutrients from reaching your grass’s roots. If your lawn had heavy foot traffic last year or feels hard underfoot, consider aeration. This process involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow better penetration of air and water. Aeration is often paired with overseeding to promote new growth in bare spots.
Step 4: Address Bare Patches
Bare spots can make your lawn look patchy and can also invite weeds to take root. Early spring is a great time to overseed these areas with high-quality grass seed suited to your region. Be sure to keep the newly seeded areas moist until the grass establishes itself.
Step 5: The First Mow of the Season
Once your grass starts growing, it’s time for the first mow. Be sure your mower blades are sharp to avoid tearing the grass, which can cause stress and disease. Set your mower to the proper height—cutting the grass too short can weaken it and lead to weed problems. A good rule of thumb is to never remove more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
By following these steps, you’ll set your lawn up for a lush, green season ahead. Regular maintenance throughout spring will ensure a healthy, thriving yard well into summer.