by
Dawn West, All About Lawns Columnist
Whether you're in a part of the country where crocuses and other early bulbs are starting to push their way through the soil already, or in a part of the country where you'll be lucky if there's not a May snowstorm, it's never too early to start getting ready for spring lawn care. Here's a guide to early spring prep, so that even if the ground is frozen, you're still getting a jump start.
Tip #1: Shop Now for Grass Seed and Lawn Fertilizer
Retailers are always a little ahead of things. The same way that Christmas
decorations pop up in October, spring lawn care supplies are available now. If you shop for
spring lawn fertilizer and grass seed now, you'll have the best selection to choose from. Look for a spring lawn fertilizer that's a little lighter on the nitrogen so that you don't encourage crazy top growth at the expense of your lawn's roots. And even if you're not planting a new lawn, pick up some grass seed so you'll be prepared to fill in spots that may have been damaged over the winter.
Tip #2: Watch for Snow Melting Issues
Piles of snow can create problems for your lawn as the temperatures rise. If the soil thaws but parts of your lawn remains buried under snowdrifts or piles from shoveling, those parts of your lawn will be especially vulnerable to spring lawn diseases like snow mold. To help prevent problems, spread snow evenly to help speed melting.
Tip #3: Begin Spring Lawn and Garden Clean Up Now
Now's the time to head to the shed or the garage and make sure your lawn and garden tools are in good repair. Take the blades of your mower in for sharpening. Replace any tools that are beyond repair. Then head to the yard and start clearing away debris (even if you scrupulously tended to your yard in the fall, winter will have left its mark).
Even if winter is still clearly upon you, prep for spring
lawn care now and you'll be in tip top shape when spring hits.
Dawn West B.A. holds a B.A. in English from Harvard University and teaches writing at Oregon State University.
