Lawn care may be the last thing on your mind when the lawn is wet or snowy from the effects of winter, but before you know it, spring will be here and the lawn care season will be in full swing. Are you ready? Many homeowners are choosing to delegate lawn care to the pros, to save money and time. Here’s how to get ready for spring in Lebanon, PA, by signing up for lawn care service early.
If you have been taking care of your lawn on your own in the past and you haven’t achieved the results you want, you may be wondering what the secret is to a great lawn. The secret is that lawns require ongoing care that gives turf grass the best possible chance to grow lush, thick, and resistant to weeds, pests, and disease. A comprehensive lawn care regimen is so much more than watering, mowing, and an occasional weed-and-feed. The best lawns look great because of a systematic approach—which is what you can expect from a professional lawn care service.
Related: The 4 Most Important Aspects of Lawn Care in Wayne Township, PA
Soil Assessment
At least once a season, the soil may be tested to ensure the correct pH and proper nutrient mix that will support robust grass growth. If the soil needs amending, adding lime will neutralize acidic soils, and adding compost (spread with a mulching mower) will add nutrients.
Dethatching
Most lawns could use a good thorough raking to remove thatch that has built up over the winter. Last year’s growth will have been compacted by the weight of snow, and thatch that is more than a half-inch thick may prevent new spring growth from emerging.
Aeration
Compacted soil prevents proper absorption of water and nutrients. Aeration loosens soil. This is especially beneficial in rejuvenating heavily used areas, by allowing moisture to penetrate lawns that get baked dry in full sun, or to air out lawns in poorly draining areas where the lawn becomes spongy.
Fertilizing
Grass is dormant in winter. If it was properly fertilized in fall, it will have overwintered well and reward you with good growth in spring. If the grass wasn’t fertilized at the end of the season, then fertilizer will need to be applied to support new growth that will push out competitive weeds.
Weed Control
Weed control is an ongoing process that requires vigilance. It begins with applying pre-emergent herbicides in the spring as well as post-emergent herbicides later in the season if necessary. The best prevention is a thick, healthy lawn that will naturally make it difficult for weeds to become established.
Overseeding
Bare patches of lawn need to be overseeded in early spring, if this hasn’t been done in late fall. These areas will require extra care until grass seedlings are well established. Weed control is especially important since most weeds are faster-growing and more aggressive than turf grass.
Mowing
When spring growth reaches 3 inches, it’s typically time for the first mowing. Since growth is vigorous in spring, keeping your grass at the optimal 3 inch height may require twice-weekly mowing. Mowing must be done with sharp mower blades to avoid tearing the grass, which invites disease.
If you’re ready to take back your weekends while giving your lawn the best care possible, be sure to sign up for lawn care services early.
Related: How Professional Lawn Care Differs From DIY in Schuylkill County, PA
