Spring Lawn Care

According to the Professional Law Care Association, American homeowners will spend about $6.4 billion on lawn care this year. However, keeping grass green and weeds at bay doesn’t have to be a full time job. If you prep your lawn properly in spring, you’ll enjoy minimal maintenance throughout the summer. Here are a few tips to keep your lawn green, healthy and weed free.

The most important part of your lawn is the soil it grows from. Soil compaction, uneven ground and PH balance are important issues to address early in the season.

Walk your lawn and check for depressions or high spots. Rolling hills are fine, but divots and bumps can cause poor drainage and uneven mowing. The best way to even these spots is by hand with a shovel. Scrape the high spots down and fill the low ones with a high-quality soil that is appropriate for grass seed.

Compaction is a common problem in heavily trafficked areas of the lawn. When the soil is compacted it is hard for grass to grow. Aeration will fix this problem. There are multiple ways to aerate a lawn, and the method you choose will depend on the size of the lawn and your preference. You can rent mechanical aerators or purchase handheld tools. Both will remove cores of dirt and allow air to reach the grass roots. When you’ve finished aerating, spread compost or sand over the holes in the lawn.

The last step before seeding is determining soil PH. If the PH is off balance you may need to amend it with minerals. Soil PH kits can be purchased at your local Country Store.

Once the soil is prepared, it is time to seed any bare spots in your lawn. Seed comes in a wide variety of mixes. Read labels carefully and choose a seed that is designed specifically for your region and sun exposure. Use a spreader to evenly distribute the seed across the areas that need to be reseeded. Water the seed regularly and fertilize with a product designed for new seed growth, typically this is a slow-release formula with low nitrogen.

When the grass grows to about four inches tall, you are ready for the first mow. Trim just about a half-inch on the first mow, to prevent trauma to the new plants.

Ongoing lawn care will keep your grass healthy and green throughout the summer. Apply fertilizer early in the season and before the first frost in the fall. Water regularly and nip weed problems in the bud quickly so they don’t proliferate.

Follow these simple steps and you will be well on your way to a healthy, green lawn that you can enjoy all summer long! For more information or to find lawn care products, visit your local Country Store.