Spring Yard Maintenance Tips

Welcome Spring! Our Top Spring Yard Maintenance Tips

Get a Head Start:

• Clean Up Debris: As the weather warms, tackle leftover winter debris like branches, leaves, and fallen decorations. This allows sunlight and air to reach your plants and encourages new growth.

Lawn Care:

• Raking: Remove dead grass and promote new growth by raking your lawn. This also helps control thatch, a layer of dead material that can impede healthy growth.
• Aeration: Consider aerating your lawn in early spring, especially if your soil is compacted. This improves drainage and allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots for a healthier lawn.
• Mowing: Wait until the grass has reached a good height (around 3 inches) before mowing for the first time. Regular mowing (once or twice a week) at the appropriate height promotes healthy growth and discourages weeds.

Weed Control:

• Start Early: As the weather warms, be vigilant and remove weeds before they take root and spread. This is easier than trying to control them later in the season.
• Choose the right method: Consider using natural methods like hand-pulling or spot treatment with herbicide for stubborn weeds. Be mindful of surrounding plants and follow product instructions carefully.

Pruning and Trimming:

• Prune for Health: Prune trees, shrubs, and bushes to remove dead or diseased branches, encourage healthy growth, and maintain desired shapes. Research proper pruning techniques for specific plants to avoid harming them.
• Respect Bloom Time: Be mindful of flowering plants and avoid pruning branches that might have flower buds. Prune these plants after they have finished blooming.

Fertilizing:

• Test and Amend: Consider getting your soil tested to determine its nutrient needs. This helps you choose the right fertilizer and avoid over-fertilizing, which can be harmful to your lawn and the environment.
• Timing is Key: Apply fertilizer according to the specific type and following package instructions. Generally, it's best to fertilize cool-season grasses (most common in Western Washington) in late spring or early fall when they are actively growing.

Irrigation:

• Check and Adjust: Inspect your sprinkler system for leaks or damage and ensure proper coverage. Adjust watering schedules as the weather warms and plants' needs change.

Mulching:

• Benefits of Mulch: Apply a fresh layer of mulch around plants (2-3 inches thick) to retain moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and improve the overall look of your landscape. Choose organic mulch that will decompose and add nutrients to the soil over time.

Planting:

• Embrace the Season: Spring is a great time to plant cool-season vegetables, flowers, and trees that thrive in Western Washington's climate. Research plant needs and choose varieties suitable for your sun exposure and soil conditions.

Sharpen Your Tools:

• Maintenance Matters: Clean and sharpen your gardening tools before using them. This ensures a cleaner, smoother cut, reduces the risk of disease transmission, and makes gardening tasks easier and more enjoyable.

Relax and Enjoy:

• Savor the Season: Take time to appreciate your efforts and the beauty of your outdoor space. Spring is a perfect time to relax, enjoy the fresh air, and connect with nature.

Remember: These are general guidelines. Adapt your approach based on your specific yard's needs and local conditions. With a little planning and effort, you can create a thriving and beautiful outdoor space in Western Washington!