As spring arrives in Winston-Salem, NC, it’s the perfect time to revitalize your lawn and prepare it for the warmer months ahead. With the right care and attention, you can ensure your lawn stays healthy, lush, and beautiful throughout the spring and beyond. Continue reading to learn more from the team at Nature’s Select™ Premium Turf Services, Inc.
1. Start with a Cleanup
Before diving into spring lawn care tasks, begin by cleaning up your yard. Remove any debris, fallen leaves, and dead foliage that accumulated over the winter. Raking and clearing away this debris will allow your lawn to breathe and receive more sunlight, promoting new growth.
2. Assess and Prepare the Soil
Test your soil to determine its pH levels and nutrient content. Soil testing kits are available at garden centers or through your local extension office. Based on the results, amend the soil as needed by adding lime to adjust pH or applying compost to improve soil structure and fertility. Spring is also an excellent time to aerate your lawn to alleviate compaction and enhance air and water penetration.
3. Start Mowing Regularly
Once the grass starts growing, adjust your mower to a higher setting and begin mowing regularly. Aim to remove no more than one-third of the grass blade’s height at each mowing session. Keeping the grass longer in spring helps shade the soil, retain moisture, and promote healthier root development.
4. Seed Bare or Thin Areas
Inspect your lawn for bare patches or areas with thin grass coverage. Spring is an ideal time to overseed these spots. Choose a quality grass seed blend suitable for your region and grass type. Rake the soil lightly, spread the seed evenly, and gently water the area. Keep the newly seeded areas consistently moist until the grass seeds germinate and establish.
5. Fertilize Wisely
Apply a balanced fertilizer formulated for spring use to boost your lawn’s nutrients. Look for a slow-release or eco-friendly fertilizer to provide steady nourishment over time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding application rates and timing to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive growth or environmental issues.
6. Control Weeds and Pests
Spring is when weeds and pests start becoming active. Stay vigilant and tackle weeds early before they can spread. Consider using pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weed seeds from germinating. For existing weeds, choose selective herbicides that target specific weed types while sparing your grass. Additionally, monitor for signs of lawn pests, like grubs or insects, and take appropriate measures to control them if necessary.
7. Maintain Adequate Watering
Proper watering is crucial for a healthy lawn. Water deeply and infrequently, aiming for about one inch of water per week, including rainfall. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Adjust the watering frequency based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.
By following these spring lawn care tips tailored for Winston-Salem, NC, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a vibrant and resilient lawn this season. If you need assistance, consider a professional lawn care service from Nature’s Select™. Contact us today at (336) 768-7999 for a free estimate.