Early Spring Lawn Care

After such a long winter, it's wonderful to see that there is actually a lawn under all of that snow! Since your grass may have taken a beating, use these suggestions to give it a healthy start this year. Aerate If your lawn has trouble absorbing water or if grass is compacted, aerate the yard. This allows air and moisture to enter the top soil and produces healthier grass. Apply an inch of water to your yard the day before you plan to aerate. Test Acidity Purchase a soil pH test kit from your lawn and garden supply store to test your soil's acidity. If the pH levels reveal high acidity, your lawn will need some lime. This will raise pH levels and help normalize the yard. On the other hand, if pH is too high in alkaline, then spread sulfur. Apply Compost Every yard benefits from compost, organic materials that have decomposed. It's perfect material for lawns and gardens. If you're really serious about excellent lawn care, you may consider purchasing a composting bin. Fertilize The prime time to apply fertilizer is when the grass begins to grow. Most northern grasses grow in the spring, while southern grasses tend to grow in fall. Be sure to fertilize again at the height of summer. Mowing Now that you've aerated and fertilized the yard, it's time to wait. Before you mow that lovely yard, give the grass time to grow three or four inches. Invest in a mulching mower and spread the clippings over your freshly cut yard. After the initial mow, you will need to trim the grass once every week or every other week so that you cut no more than 1/3 of the grass.