Preparing Your Lawn For Spring

Spring is here and now is the time to think about the needs of your lawn. Some are damaged from the cold, harsh winter snow and winds,. Others are compacted and torn up from snowplowing, damaged from salt, and many have areas destroyed by pets and kids winter activities.

Once the snow has disappeared inspect your lawn to see what needs to be repaired. Many lawns require such things done as fertilizing, aeration, and seeding.

Almost every lawn requires aeration at least once a year. Aeration involves the pulling of small cores from the ground to reduce thatch buildup, reduce compaction, and to help the growth of the grass root system. Many people believe that home products such as spikes on walking shoes or small pull behind corers bought at the local retail store will do the job. Yes, these items will help but the best aeration that your lawn could be provided with is from a commercial size aerator either rented from the local hardware store or one used by a commercial lawn company.

Lawn fertilization is another important part of your lawns recovery. The biggest mistake I see in the field is when a application is applied too early. I have even seen a application placed on a lawn when there is still snow on part of it. Fertilizer, especially ones including pre-emergent, is only effective for a certain amount of days. Thus if we happen to have a late winter and even later spring most of the product will wash away or drain thru the soils prior to being useful to the lawn. Make sure before choosing a lawn company you know when the first application will be applied. If you are applying it yourself, read the instructions carefully for proper timing.

Lawn rolling is a thing of the past. Many people thought this was a great idea when it came to a bumpy lawn. Now most of the time aeration will help if the lawn is a little uneven or you may have to resort to a top dress of soil and seed to help even your lawn out. Lawn rolling will only compact your soil and in the long run will only hurt the roots of the grass and prevent proper growth. If you still have the itch to roll your lawn it is best to do it in the spring when the ground is still moist. But again we highly advise against this.

Always consult a specialist in the lawn industry if you have any questions about your lawn. My rule of thumb, if you are considering a commercial lawn company get at least 2 or 3 estimates, ask any important questions upfront prior to signing, and feel comfortable with the company you choose not just with the price.