As the snow melts and spring approaches, it’s time to start preparing your lawn for a fresh, healthy season. Minnesota winters can take a toll on your lawn, and getting your yard ready for spring may require a bit of extra maintenance. March is the perfect time to assess and care for your lawn after the long winter months. Northern Roots is sharing the right steps to take to ensure a lush, green lawn when summer finally arrives.
Assess Your Lawn as the Snow Melts
Once the snow melts, take a look at your lawn’s condition. Early inspection can help you spot any damage caused by winter conditions.
- Look for Snow Mold: If you see gray or pink patches, it could be snow mold. Light raking can help improve airflow and prevent further damage.
- Check for Compaction: Areas with heavy foot traffic or deep snow may have compacted soil. Aerating later in spring can help relieve compaction and improve lawn health.
- Identify Bare Spots: Check for areas where the grass didn’t grow well over the winter. These spots may need reseeding or extra care.
Rake and Clear Debris
Once your lawn has dried out, usually late March or early April, it’s time to start raking.
- Wait for the Right Time: Be sure to wait for dry, mild days to work on your lawn. Avoid working on it when the soil is too wet or frozen. Wet soil can be damaged, so wait until it’s dry enough to avoid compacting the soil.
- Clear Leaves and Debris: Rake up fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris to let your grass breathe. This allows sunlight and air to reach the soil and helps your grass grow stronger.
Check for Damage
Minnesota winters can be tough on lawns, so March is a good time to check for signs of winter damage.
- Salt Damage: If your lawn is near sidewalks or roads treated with salt, look for yellow or brown patches. These spots may require extra care, like watering to flush out excess salt.
- Desiccation: Dry patches may form when the snow cover is thin. If you see brown spots, your grass may need extra watering or reseeding.
- Matted Grass: Gently rake areas where the grass is matted down by snow or ice. This helps promote healthy growth.
Fertilizing and Seeding
After clearing debris, it’s time to give your lawn some nutrients.
- Fertilize: Apply a light, slow-release fertilizer to give your lawn a boost. Choose a product that’s right for your grass type and climate.
- Plan for Seeding: If your lawn has bare patches, start thinking about seeding. Wait until temperatures are consistently above 50°F before spreading seed.
Let Northern Roots Help You Get Your Lawn Ready for Spring
Northern Roots is here to help you get your lawn in top shape for the growing season. By taking the right steps this month, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn all spring and summer. Need help with raking, fertilizing, or seeding? Contact us today and let us handle the work for you!