Beginning with January, this is the ideal time to focus on lawn maintenance and planning. Inspect your tools, get them serviced if necessary, and think ahead about what your lawn needs for the upcoming months. Though it might be cold outside, your grass can still breathe. Gently rake leaves that can smother grass if left over winter, and plan your lawn care schedule.
February often brings fluctuating temperatures. This month is great for keeping watch over winter weeds, which can compete with your grass for nutrients. Use a pre-emergent herbicide to keep weed growth in check before they become unmanageable.
March is the beginning of rejuvenation. Start fertilizing your cool-season grasses now to help them come back to life. Aerate the lawn if the ground isn't too muddy or frozen. If you plan to reseed, aim for this month while the temperatures are mild and cool-season grass seeds can thrive.
April showers bring May flowers, but they also demand attention to your lawn. Aerating, fertilizing, and applying pre-emergents should all be top priorities. Slowly begin regular mowing as the weather warms up. Remember to sharpen your mower blades for a cleaner cut.
The arrival of May signals the time to tackle pest control. Pests like grubs start to become active. A natural or chemical treatment can prevent these pests from damaging your lawn. Continue your regular mowing routine and keep a close eye on any signs of plant diseases.
In June, with summer temperatures rising, watering becomes vital. Aim for early morning irrigation to minimize evaporation. Consistent, deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering encourages strong root systems. At this stage, maintain your mowing and pest control regimen.
July demands extra care as the heat intensifies. Ensure that your grass remains hydrated without overwatering. Brown patches might appear due to the heat, so mitigate this by maintaining your watering schedule. Avoid fertilizing since adding nutrients can stress your lawn during high temperatures.
As August rolls in, consider spot-seeding bare patches while maintaining your watering schedule. Aeration and dethatching could still be beneficial, particularly for warm-season grasses showing signs of wear and tear.
September is the turning point where cool-season grass growth returns. It's an excellent month for aeration, fertilizing, and reseeding. Thatching might also be necessary, especially after a dry summer. Now is the time to repair all the bare spots and to get your lawn ready for the cool autumn months.
October ushers in cooler weather, making it ideal for applying fall fertilization. These nutrients help your grass recover and prepare for winter dormancy. Gradually lower mowing heights over the next few cuts to prevent snow mold.
November can mean the end of the lawn care year for many. Collect fallen leaves and ensure your yard is clean. Store your lawn equipment properly until spring.
Finally, with December comes rest. Use this time to reflect on the year's successes and plan for next season. Enjoy the winter holiday season with peace of mind, knowing you gave your lawn the best care possible.
With this structured lawn care schedule, Everett Lawn Care hopes to guide you in maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn all year round. A disciplined approach ensures not just beauty, but resilience against the changing elements throughout the seasons.