Michigan's ever-changing seasons bring unique challenges and opportunities for lawn care. A lush, healthy lawn is the pride of many homeowners, but achieving that picture-perfect turf requires knowledge and dedication. To help you navigate the year, here's a month-by-month guide to keeping your Michigan lawn in top shape.
January & February: Rest and Planning
In the heart of winter, your lawn is dormant, but that doesn't mean you should be! Use this time to plan. Consider any lawn care equipment you need to repair or replace and think about any changes you want to make to your lawn care strategy.
March: Early Preparation
As the snow begins to melt, start clearing debris from your lawn. This is also a good time to sharpen mower blades and service your lawn mower. If the ground is thawed and dry enough, gently rake the lawn to remove thatch and winter debris.
April: Spring Lawn Care Begins
April is when lawn care kicks into high gear. Apply a light fertilizer and pre-emergent herbicide to prevent crabgrass. Overseed any bare patches and start mowing once the grass reaches about three inches tall, keeping the blade height at about 2.5 inches.
May: Vigilant Growth Management
May is a growth spurt month. Continue mowing regularly, but never remove more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time. This is also the right time to apply another round of fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.
June: Maintenance and Monitoring
As temperatures rise, adjust your watering schedule. Early morning watering is best to reduce evaporation and fungal growth. Monitor your lawn for signs of pests or diseases and treat as necessary.
July: Heat Stress Management
July's heat can stress your lawn. Raise your mower blade to leave the grass a bit taller; this helps retain moisture. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth, which helps the grass withstand drought.
August: Preparing for Fall
In late August, start preparing your lawn for the fall. This can include aerating compacted soil and applying another round of fertilizer. Begin to reduce watering as the weather cools.
September: Fall Lawn Care
September is the ideal time for major lawn maintenance. Overseed to fill in thin spots, and continue with your regular mowing and watering routine. Apply a pre-winter fertilizer to prepare your lawn for the cold months ahead.
October: Final Mowing and Clean-up
Continue to mow as needed, gradually lowering the blade height. Rake and remove fallen leaves to prevent them from smothering the grass. This is also a good time to winterize your mower and other equipment.
November & December: Winter Preparation
As winter approaches, finish any last-minute lawn clean-up. Apply a final round of fertilizer, specifically designed for winter preparation, to nourish your lawn through the cold months.
Let Transitions Outdoor Services Keep Your Lawn Perfect All Year Round
Maintaining a lawn in Michigan can be a complex task. That's where Transitions Outdoor Services can help. We offer a range of services from regular lawn maintenance to seasonal treatments and aeration. Our experts can take the guesswork out of lawn care, ensuring your lawn stays healthy and beautiful throughout the year. Contact us today to learn how we can help keep your Michigan lawn in peak condition!
