After a cold winter, most people are ready for spring. You might be dreaming of afternoons in the park but even if your family is all set to enjoy the sunshine, your yard might not be. It takes a little bit of work to prepare your landscaping for the warmer weather. Here are seven must-do tasks to get your yard ready for spring.
Rake Deeply
When you think about spring, raking is probably the last thing that comes to mind.
After all, raking is just a fall job right?
Actually, raking is important for getting your lawn ready for new growth. Even if you cleaned up all of the leaves it’s still important to take care of the thatch.
Thatch is the layer between the grass above and the roots below. If this layer (it’s mainly dead turfgrass) gets too thick, it can be bad for the health of your lawn.
Raking deeply gets rid of extra thatch and can help new grass penetrate matted patches that may be caused by snow mold.
Apply Fertilizer
Now that the dead stuff is out of the way, it’s time to focus on bringing the grass back to life. That means applying fertilizer.
Fertilizer feeds your lawn. It gives grass the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.
When looking for the right fertilizer consider something that is slow-release or controlled-release. These are safer for the environment and result in more uniform grass growth.
Purchase a brand that’s rich in nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus.
Be sure to read the bag of whatever fertilizer you purchase and know the exact size of your lawn. Both over-fertilizing and under-fertilizing can harm your grass.
Control Weeds
After the snow, you might be excited to see anything green. But any homeowner knows how annoying weeds can be.
Weeds ruin the look of your yard. They also steal nutrients from your grass.
Spring is the best time to be proactive with your lawn. Preventative or pre-emergent weed control can help tackle weeds before they sprout. However, know that if you’re overseeding, pre-emergent herbicides also work against grass seed.
Make sure you weed early and often, even if you miss the preventative window. Pulling dandelions, crabgrass and other weeds out by the roots can keep their spread to a minimum.
Prune Trees and Shrubs
Now it’s time to turn your attention to your trees and shrubs.
To ensure everything grows healthy, you need to prune.
Pruning trees and shrubs removes dead branches that get in the way of new growth. They also make them look more attractive.
Pruning is easiest when done early. That way you can see how healthy branches are before all the leaves impair your view.
Refresh Your Mulching
Fresh mulch is essential if you want your trees and shrubs to look healthy throughout the year.
Mulch helps control moisture absorption. The right amount prevents weeds and keeps roots cool throughout the summer and insulated in the winter. It keeps planting areas looking neat.
Before you apply new mulch, make sure to remove the old. And don’t put it on too thick. If mulch is applied too thick and close to the trees it can suffocate them.
Wondering which mulch is best for your lawn? Read some reviews here.
Edge for a Professional Look
Edging is the secret to making your landscape look its best.
It helps separate your landscaping from the lawn. It keeps grass from growing into plant beds and keeps both looking much neater.
If you don’t already own one, consider purchasing an edging tool. With just a little bit of work you can cut the lines that will give your landscape a professional look.
Plan Your Landscape Projects
While the tips above will help you grow healthy grass, a great yard requires a little more.
For a yard you’ll love this spring, consider hiring a professional to work on hardscaping, a patio or deck. Or if your needs are more functional, think about drainage or a retaining wall.
Whatever your needs, be sure to plan early. Landscapers book up fast and if you don’t act soon you might have to wait for a yard you’ll love.
To make sure you get all your projects completed and your yard ready for spring, give Torchwood Landscaping a call at (616) 551-0711.
