6 Tips for a Healthy Spring Lawn

If your lawn is anything like mine, the winter has taken its toll. We don’t have harsh winters here in Northeast Florida, thank goodness, but the few cold snaps we did have were enough to make an impact. Punxsutawney Phil didn’t see his shadow for only the 18th time since 1887. Spring is right around the corner and here are a few ways you can prepare your lawn.

1. Clean up the dead stuff

Getting rid of debris, fallen leaves or twigs will help your lawn be able to collect the precious Florida sunlight. It also allows fertilizer and weed killer to absorb more effectively. Most obviously, and somewhat importantly, it makes your home look better.

2. Weed and Feed

This does a few things for you. It gives your lawn the food it needs for a great start to the growing season. (Think of it as Breakfast for your grass) It also prevents weeds and undesirable plants from sneaking in during your lawns winter slumber and gaining a foothold. Hit it hard now and have an easier time the rest of the year. You can find different flavors of the stuff at any home improvement or gardening store. The product I have had the most success with is Bayer Brand “Advanced 3 in 1 Weed & Feed for Southern Lawns”. The name pretty much says it all, it is developed specifically for what Floridian lawns need. In case you were wondering, no they are not sponsors. Though I wouldn’t say no.

3. Mow often and at the correct height

Its not much fun. Another chore is the last thing you probably wanted to have, but mowing often makes for a healthier lawn. Letting it go too long and then cutting it causes shock to the grass and stunts growth. Experts say to mow every 5-6 days during spring and summer. Also, be sure to adjust your mower according to the type of grass you have. For example, experts say that for St. Augustine grass the sweet spot is somewhere between 3.5 and 4 inches. Once you determine the best height for your grass, make the adjustments on your mower.

4. Take your lawn equipment in for maintenance

There is nothing worse than putting off the mowing for a little too long only to have the mower, and the neighbors, laugh at you as you pull repeatedly (in the dead of summer) trying to crank it. Not that I have any experience in this situation or anything…The maintenance and repairs shops are a lot slower this time of year. Ask them to inspect everything, do a tune up (yes, that is still a thing), and sharpen your blade. A dull blade tears grass and makes uneven cuts, damaging the health and appearance of your lawn.

5. Put down a fresh layer of Mulch

Once you have the lawn sorted, address the non-grass areas of your lawn. Remove dead plants and weeds and put down some fresh mulch. It looks great and helps to keep weeds at bay.

6. Trim shrubs and trees

Your grass and flower beds aren’t the only things that have been neglected during the colder months. Early fall is the best time to do the trimming but its not too late if you didn’t do it yet. Remove dead branches that might be hanging around and trim the shrubs to an appropriate height and shape. They will begin to fill in and looks much better in no time.

There are other things you can do I am sure, but these will go a long way. If you couldn’t care less about how your lawn looks, do it for the increased curb-appeal. If you don’t have the time or desire, there are always professionals who would love to have a new client. If you have any tips you’d like to add to this list let us know on our social media pages. Give us a like if you haven’t already.