Spring is a time of renewal, and for many homeowners, that means getting their lawns back in shape after the winter dormancy. There are several steps that you can take to prepare your lawn for the upcoming season and ensure that it stays healthy throughout the year.
One of the first things to consider is pre-emergent and fungicide treatments. These treatments are designed to prevent weeds and diseases from taking hold in your lawn.
Pre-emergent herbicides are applied before weed seeds germinate and can help prevent a lawn invasion. Fungicides, on the other hand, can help prevent diseases like brown patch and dollar spot, which thrive in warm, moist conditions.
Applying these treatments early in the spring can go a long way in keeping your lawn healthy and weed-free.
It’s also important to pay attention to your watering habits. Watering your lawn based on weather conditions can help you avoid overwatering or underwatering. In the spring, you might not need to water as frequently as you would in the summer.
Pay attention to the weather forecast and adjust your watering accordingly. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases and other problems, while underwatering can lead to brown, dry patches in your lawn.
Fertilizing is an important part of lawn care, but it’s important to wait until your lawn is fully out of dormancy before applying fertilizer. Applying it too early can promote weed growth and cause other issues.
Wait until your lawn is actively growing and has been mowed a few times before applying fertilizer. This will help ensure that your lawn is healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season.
Spring is also a great time to prune trees and shrubs. Pruning can help promote healthy growth and remove dead or damaged branches. It’s important to prune at the right time and in the right way to avoid damaging your plants. If you’re not sure how to prune your trees and shrubs, consider hiring a professional to do the job for you.
Another important step in tree and shrub care is deep root feeding. This process involves injecting fertilizer directly into the root zone of your plants. This can help promote deep root growth and healthier plants.
Finally, it’s important to take steps to prevent mole cricket infestations. Mole crickets are a common lawn pest that can cause significant damage. Spring is a good time to start preventing mole cricket infestations by using systemic insecticides.
In conclusion, getting your lawn back in shape after the winter dormancy involves a variety of tasks, from pre-emergent and fungicide treatments to tree and shrub pruning. By following these tips, you can ensure that your lawn is healthy, lush, and ready to enjoy throughout the upcoming season.
With a little effort and care, you can have the beautiful lawn you’ve always wanted.
Mark Deloach is the owner of Lawn Doctor of Beaufort County.
