5 easy spring steps for summer lawn success

The Groundhog may have missed seeing his shadow, but the long-term forecast suggests we’re in for some truly great weather starting around mid-March. Before we know it, it’ll be time to roll up our sleeves and take care of those essential lawn chores. Instead of rushing out to buy the latest “miracle” products from big box stores or the newest trend promoted on Saturday morning radio, remember: if you prepared your lawn well last fall, you’ll only need a few simple tasks this spring to have a lush, impressive yard by mid-April.

Here’s a straightforward spring checklist to help you get your lawn and landscape in top shape—aim to complete these by April 1st for best results.

1. Mow Your Lawn Short (But Not Too Short)

Always set your mower to the tallest setting. Longer grass helps shade the soil, reduces weeds, and encourages healthy growth. The only exceptions are if you’re verticutting before seeding or doing a one-time early cut in March—no shorter than two inches.

A quick tip: a short mow in early spring helps remove winter-damaged grass and dormant ends, giving your lawn a fresh start. Just be sure to check the weather forecast—avoid cutting too low if freezing temperatures are expected, as frost can damage new growth.

Leave the grass clippings if you like—these natural nutrients will nourish your soil and help keep weeds at bay. If your lawn looks messy after cutting, raise your mower height a notch. Remember, a well-manicured, two-inch lawn will make your yard stand out!

2. Clear Leaves and Debris

Even if you think you’ve cleaned up in December, some leaves stubbornly hang on through the winter, especially from trees like pin oaks and ornamental pears. Take a few minutes to do a final raking or blower session in early spring—pay special attention to spots under decks, around air conditioners, and in tight corners.

Removing these leaves early allows the sun to warm the soil, encouraging healthy grass growth and preventing weed growth. Plus, a tidy yard looks fantastic and feels welcoming!

3. Prune Summer-Flowering Perennials and Shrubs

Now’s the time to prune roses, ornamental grasses, liriope, and other perennials before they start growing again. For shrub roses like Knockouts, cut them back to about 18-21 inches for optimal health.

A handy trick for ornamental grasses: wrap a rope or bungee cord around the clump about three feet above ground, then cut just above the bundle. This simplifies cleanup and prevents a big mess.

Pruning early ensures your plants are healthy and ready to thrive during the spring and summer, giving your landscape a polished, professional look.

4. Mulch and Prepare Flower Beds

After leaf removal and pruning, apply a fresh layer of mulch—about one inch if you mulched last year, or two to four inches if you’re starting fresh. Be sure to include a weed preventer when you mulch, and follow all label instructions carefully. Fertilize your trees and shrubs as well, to give them a healthy start for the season.

Getting mulch and pre-emergent weed control down by April 1st sets your landscape up for a weed-free, vibrant spring. Plus, well-mulched beds look fantastic and protect your plants from temperature swings.

5. Apply Crabgrass Preventer and Fertilizer

Prevent summer weeds early by applying a slow-release fertilizer combined with crabgrass preventer—products with active ingredients like prodiamine or dithiopyr are best. Timing is key; apply these by April 15th for maximum effectiveness.

Choose a fertilizer with coated urea or methylene urea to ensure steady nutrient release without excessive growth spurt. Proper application now means a healthier, greener lawn throughout the summer.