Seasonal Lawn Care Tips: Preparing Your Shelby Township Lawn for Spring

Spring in Shelby Township, MI, brings warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your lawn after a harsh winter. The transition from cold, snowy months to lush, green grass requires a strategic approach to ensure your lawn stays healthy and vibrant throughout the season. With the right lawn care practices, you can enhance your curb appeal and create an outdoor space that you can enjoy all year long. 

Ready to get the pros involved in your lawn care? Call Visionary Fertilization today!

1. Start with a Thorough Clean-Up

Winter can leave behind a mess of debris, fallen branches, and dead grass. Before beginning any lawn care treatments, start with a thorough clean-up.

• Rake up dead leaves and thatch to allow sunlight and nutrients to reach the soil.
• Remove any debris, like twigs and branches, that may have accumulated over the winter.
• Inspect your lawn for any signs of damage, such as bare patches or mold growth, and take note of areas that may need special attention.

A clean lawn provides a fresh start and helps prevent mold and fungus from thriving in damp conditions.

2. Assess Your Soil Health

Healthy soil is the foundation of a lush lawn. After the winter freeze, your soil may be compacted and in need of aeration. 

• Perform a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies. Soil tests are available at garden centers, but calling in our team at Visionary Fertilization is our recommendation. With professionals, you’ll not only receive clear results, but also expertise to deal with anything you find.
• If your soil is too acidic, consider adding lime to balance the pH.
• For compacted soil, aeration helps improve air and water circulation, allowing grass roots to grow deeper and stronger.

3. Overseed Bare or Thin Spots

Harsh winter conditions can leave your lawn with thin or bare patches. Overseeding helps thicken the turf and prevents weeds from taking over. 

• Choose a high-quality grass seed suitable for Michigan’s climate.
• Loosen the soil in the bare spots with a rake.
• Spread the grass seed evenly and lightly cover it with soil.
• Water consistently to promote germination and establishment.

4. Apply the Right Fertilizer

Feeding your lawn in early spring gives it a strong start for the growing season. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of fertilizer:

• Use a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer to promote steady growth.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can lead to weak, fast-growing grass susceptible to disease.
• If you applied fertilizer in the fall, wait until late spring for another application to prevent overstimulation.

5. Control Weeds Before They Take Over

Spring is the best time to get ahead of weeds before they become a problem. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weed seeds from germinating and should be applied early in the season.

• Target common weeds like crabgrass and dandelions before they sprout.
• Apply herbicides when soil temperatures reach around 55°F.
• For existing weeds, use a selective post-emergent herbicide or pull them manually to prevent spreading.

6. Mow with the Right Technique

The first mow of the season is crucial for setting the stage for a healthy lawn. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Set your mower height to around 3 inches to encourage strong root development.
• Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to avoid stress.
• Keep mower blades sharp to ensure clean cuts and prevent tearing the grass.

Regular mowing with proper techniques keeps your lawn dense and less susceptible to weeds and diseases.

7. Water Wisely

Proper watering habits in spring set the tone for healthy grass throughout the season. Many homeowners make the mistake of overwatering or watering at the wrong times. 

• Water deeply and infrequently rather than shallow and often.
• Early morning is the best time to water, as it allows moisture to reach the roots without promoting fungal growth.
• Lawns typically need about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.

8. Mulch and Edge Garden Beds

Spring is also a great time to enhance the overall look of your landscape by refreshing mulch and edging garden beds.

• Apply a fresh layer of mulch around trees and flower beds to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Use an edging tool to create clean, defined borders between your lawn and garden beds for a polished appearance.

9. Address Pest and Disease Issues

As temperatures rise, pests and lawn diseases can become a concern. Keep an eye out for common lawn problems such as:

• Grubs, which feed on grassroots and cause brown patches.
• Fungal diseases, which thrive in overly damp conditions.
• Ants, moles, or other pests that disrupt lawn health.

If you notice signs of infestations or disease, consult a lawn care professional for the best treatment options.

10. Consider Professional Lawn Care Services

If maintaining your lawn feels overwhelming, consider calling Visionary Fertilization. Professionals can provide expert soil analysis, aeration, weed control, and fertilization tailored to your lawn’s specific needs.

Get Summer-Ready with Visionary Fertilization

Restore and strengthen your lawn with professional treatment from southeast Michigan’s best lawn care team. Ready to get started? Call us today!