BLOG Sexton Lawn Care's Guide to Seasonal Lawn Maintenance: Keeping Your Turf in Top Shape Year-Round Dec 08, 2023

A lush, healthy lawn is the pride of any homeowner. However, achieving and maintaining that pristine turf requires effort and consistency throughout the year. As your trusted partner in lawn maintenance, Sexton Lawn Care is here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to seasonal lawn care, enabling you to keep your turf in top shape year-round.

Spring: As the temperatures climb and nature begins to awaken from its winter slumber, your lawn needs a jumpstart to regain its vibrancy. Follow these tips for a successful springtime lawn care routine:

1. Clear the debris: Before getting started on any lawn care activities, make sure to take the time to clear your yard of any debris that has accumulated during the winter months. Rake away leaves, twigs, and any other debris that may impede growth.

2. Aerate: Spring is the ideal time to aerate your lawn, which involves creating small holes in the soil to allow for better nutrient absorption and improved water circulation.

3. Fertilize: Apply a slow-release fertilizer during the early spring to provide your lawn with the essential nutrients it needs to thrive. Be sure to choose a fertilizer formulated for your specific grass type.

4. Weed control: Combat weeds early by applying pre-emergent herbicides to prevent them from taking root in your yard. This proactive approach will save you from a tremendous amount of effort later on.

Summer: As the days grow longer and the temperatures soar, your lawn faces new challenges. Here's how to keep your turf healthy during the hot summer months:

1. Water wisely: Deep, infrequent watering is crucial during the summertime. Aim to provide your lawn with at least 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or watering. Watering deeply encourages the roots to grow deeper, making your lawn more tolerant to drought conditions.

2. Mow at the right height: During the summer, adjust your mower blades to a higher setting to leave your grass a bit longer. This will help shade the soil, reduce water evaporation, and prevent weed growth.

3. Watch out for pests: Summer brings out various pests that can damage your lawn. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation, such as brown patches or small burrows, and take appropriate measures to address the issue promptly.

Fall: As summer fades, it's time to prepare your lawn for the colder months. Follow these guidelines for a smooth transition:

1. Rake leaves: Autumn typically means an abundance of fallen leaves. Rake and remove the leaves regularly to prevent them from suffocating your grass.

2. Overseed: Fill in any bare spots by overseeding your lawn. This process involves spreading grass seeds to encourage additional growth, making your turf fuller and more resilient.

3. Fertilize: Apply a winter fertilizer during the fall to provide your lawn with the necessary nutrients it needs to endure the upcoming season's challenges.

Winter: While your lawn may be dormant during the winter, it still requires some care to ensure its readiness for the upcoming spring. Here are a few tasks to keep in mind:

1. Avoid compaction: While snow may cover your lawn, avoid stepping or driving on it to prevent compaction of the soil. Compaction can hinder root growth and nutrient absorption.

2. Protect against frost heave: In colder regions, protect your lawn against frost heave by placing a layer of mulch or straw around the base of susceptible plants and perennials.

3. Clean your tools: Take advantage of the downtime to clean, sharpen, and organize your lawn care tools. By doing so, you'll be prepared for the upcoming spring season.

By following this comprehensive guide to seasonal lawn maintenance, you'll be well-equipped to keep your turf in top shape throughout the year. Remember, Sexton Lawn Care is always here to offer our expertise and assistance whenever you need it. Together, let's create and maintain a lawn that will be the envy of the neighborhood!