Spring is Here!

What a month weather wise August was. From beautiful pre-spring weather through to wind, cold, thunder and rain! As Spring is on its way, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about lawn care. After the winter months, your lawn may look a little tired and worn out, but don’t worry – with a bit of care, it’ll be looking fresh and green in no time. The transition from winter to spring is crucial for lawn recovery, and there are several steps you can take to ensure your lawn is ready to thrive in the warmer months ahead.

Thatch removal

One of the first things you can do is give your lawn a bit of a fresh start. After months of colder weather, your lawn may have developed a layer of thatch – that’s the brown, dead grass that builds up and can block sunlight and water from reaching the soil. Grab a rake and gently remove this thatch, which will allow your lawn to breathe and take in the nutrients it needs to grow. Be gentle during this process, as your lawn is still recovering from winter and isn’t quite ready for aggressive treatments.

Mowing your lawn

After clearing the thatch, give your lawn a mow. Make sure your mower blades are sharp, as dull blades can tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, causing damage. While you’re at it, give your mower a quick check to ensure it’s in top working order. A well-maintained mower will make the job easier and help keep your lawn healthy.

Feeding your lawn

Once you’ve tidied up and mowed the grass, it’s time to give it a feed. A slow-release fertiliser is a great choice at this stage. It will provide a steady supply of nutrients over time, helping your lawn to regain its strength and promote healthy growth. Spread the fertiliser evenly across your lawn, and then give it a good watering to help it settle into the soil.

Watering considerations

Be mindful with your watering as Adelaide’s spring weather can be unpredictable. The soil may still be quite moist from winter, so before you turn on the sprinkler, do a quick finger test. Simply poke your finger into the soil to see how damp it feels. If it’s still wet, hold off on watering to avoid drowning your lawn. However, if the weather has been dry, especially with the windy conditions we sometimes get in spring, keep an eye on moisture levels to ensure your lawn doesn’t dry out too much. Balance is key here.

Addressing patchy spots

If you’ve noticed any patchy spots on your lawn, now’s the time to address them. Patchy areas often develop due to winter weeds or general wear and tear. Sprinkling some seed over these spots will help fill in the gaps and fortify your lawn against further weed growth. Plus, it will give your lawn a nice, even appearance when the grass starts growing more actively as the weather warms up. For areas with significant damage or spots that see a lot of foot traffic, laying down new turf might be your best option. Whether it’s a few small patches or a larger section of your lawn, replacing the worn-out areas with fresh turf can give your lawn an instant makeover and ensure it’s in the best shape possible heading into the warmer months.

Aerating your lawn

Now’s also a great time to think about aerating your lawn. Aeration helps relieve soil compaction, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deep into the roots. It’s particularly beneficial if your lawn gets a lot of traffic or if you’ve noticed it feels a bit hard underfoot. Aerating now will help your lawn grow stronger and healthier, setting it up to withstand the summer heat. If you’re unsure how to do it, or you don’t have the right equipment, consider reaching out for professional help. We offer aeration as part of our regular maintenance packages.

Checking your irrigation system

While you’re working on your lawn, don’t forget about your irrigation system. If you’ve got one, now’s the time to check that it’s working properly. Test each zone to make sure the sprinklers are functioning correctly and adjust the settings for the upcoming warmer months. A well-maintained irrigation system can make a big difference in keeping your lawn healthy and hydrated as the temperatures rise.

Pre-emergent herbicide application

Another tip to consider is using a pre-emergent herbicide. This can help prevent weeds from taking hold in your lawn as the weather warms up. By tackling weeds before they have a chance to sprout, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and effort later in the season. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and apply it at the right time for the best results.

Planning for the future

Lastly, don’t forget about the future. The work you put into your lawn now will pay off in the months to come, as a well-prepared lawn is better equipped to handle the challenges of summer heat. Regular care, such as mowing, watering, and fertilising, will keep your lawn looking its best all season long. If all of this sounds like a lot of work, don’t worry – you don’t have to do it all yourself. Our team is here to help with anything from one-off jobs to regular maintenance packages. Whether you need help with aeration, lawn renovation, or general upkeep, we’ve got you covered. Just give us a call, and we’ll make sure your lawn is ready to shine this spring and summer.

By taking these simple steps, you can help your lawn recover from winter and prepare for a healthy, vibrant season ahead. Whether you’re maintaining it yourself or calling in the pros, your lawn will thank you for the care you put in now.