Is your Backyard Spring Ready?

We can’t believe spring is right around the corner! More than likely, you have thought about spring-cleaning inside your home, but have you thought about making sure your backyard is ready for spring, too? Here's some of our spring preparation tips:

Yard Cleanup

Remove any debris that has accumulated over the winter, including dead grass, leaves, broken branches, etc. Rake the lawn thoroughly, and clean out plant beds and gardens, removing any debris and dead plants. Eliminating debris will improve airflow and sun exposure. Make sure you wear a thick pair of gloves during the cleanup process.

Pruning & Trimming

Spring is a great time to trim plants and prune. This encourages new, healthy growth and eliminates old growth. Remove dead or damaged sections of plants by cutting off individual areas or the entire top, depending on plant type. Make any hard cutbacks that are needed for trees or shrubs and prune individual branches to shape trees and support new growth. It is important to remember that pruning guidelines vary based on the variety and type of tree or shrub in, in addition to local climates.

Edging

Edging is a must in order to prepare your landscape for spring. Edging helps to define the line between your landscaping and lawn, and it will prevent your grass from growing into your beds. Done correctly, edging will give your landscape a clean and well-manicured look.

Plant & Mulch

Be sure to test your soil condition and add nutrients as needed, as well as plant any new plants or trees that require spring planting. Add compost as necessary, as well as mulch, to protect the new plantings. Mulch improves plant health by helping to control moisture absorption by the plants and by preventing weeds. If there are bare spots in your lawn, be sure to seed them, as well. However, if you are doing pre-emergent, you should not seed.

Aerate the Lawn

Over time, the soil of your lawn will naturally compact, which makes it difficult for the soil to absorb air and moisture, which then makes it tough for new grasses to root properly. By aerating the soil, you loosen it up, allowing improved soil penetration and water absorption.

Please note, if you are planning to do pre-emergent, you should aerate first.

Apply Pre-Emergents & Fertilizer

Apply pre-emergent to prevent the growth of weeds now, so that they are easier to control over the summer. This application helps prevent grassy weeds from growing in your lawn, while also providing the grass with vital nutrients that are necessary for a good spring start-up. You can also fertilize at the same time, providing the grass with nutrients to grow strong and healthy.

Be careful with pre-emergents, as it works by stopping all seeds from developing, which includes grass seed. Do not apply pre-emergent if you are seeding your grass. Also, be careful about spreading it around your flower beds and/or other landscaped areas.

Your backyard will thank you for the spring prep! If you have questions or need assistance, give us a call at 678.360.2784.

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