Spring in Michigan can be unpredictable. Warm, sunny days alternate with chilly, rainy weather, making it tough to know exactly when to tackle certain lawn-care tasks. But don't worry, this step-by-step spring yard checklist will guide you through the essential landscape cleanup tasks to keep your yard looking fresh and healthy all season long.
Follow these steps to get your yard spring-ready and keep it in top shape throughout the season!
Step 1: Remove Winter Debris
Start by thoroughly cleaning up any debris that has accumulated over winter. This includes branches, sticks, leaves, and trash that may have blown into your yard. A thorough cleanup helps your grass grow evenly and prevents disease.
Ideal Timing: Early April, or as soon as snow has fully melted and the ground is thawed.
Step 2: Rake Out Dead Grass and Thatch
Next, grab a sturdy rake to remove dead grass, leaves, and thatch from your lawn. Thatch is a layer of dead grass and organic matter that builds up and prevents air, water, and nutrients from reaching grass roots. Raking opens up your lawn, preparing it for new growth.
Ideal Timing: Early to mid-April, after the risk of heavy frost has passed and your grass has started to green slightly.
Step 3: Edge Your Garden Beds
Clearly defined garden beds instantly boost your home's curb appeal. Use a sharp spade or mechanical edger to create neat, crisp lines between your beds and lawn. This simple step keeps mulch in place and prevents grass from invading your garden spaces.
Ideal Timing: Mid-April, once the soil is workable and before planting annual flowers or laying fresh mulch.
Step 4: Prune Shrubs and Ornamental Trees
Early spring is the best time to prune shrubs and ornamental trees, promoting healthy growth and shaping your landscape. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Ideal Timing: Early to mid-April, just before new buds fully break open, while plants are still dormant.
Step 5: Aerate Your Lawn
Lawn aeration is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy, lush yard. By removing small cores of soil, aeration improves air and nutrient circulation to grass roots, promoting stronger, deeper growth. Consider pairing aeration with overseeding or fertilizer application to maximize results.
Ideal Timing: Mid-April to early May, once the grass is actively growing but before the heat of summer arrives.
Bonus Tips: Scheduling Spring Fertilizer and Weed Control
April's weather in Southern Michigan can vary significantly, so timing is crucial when applying fertilizer and weed control:
- Early to Mid-April: Apply pre-emergent crabgrass control to stop invasive weeds before they germinate.
- Mid- to Late April: Begin fertilization programs, selecting balanced slow-release fertilizers to strengthen grass without forcing excessive growth.
Schedule Your Spring Clean-Up Today!
Don't let yard work keep you from enjoying spring. Homeowners in Plymouth, Livonia, and the rest of Metro Detroit trust Transitions Outdoor Services to get their yards spring-ready quickly and expertly.
Call us today or visit our website to schedule your hassle-free spring yard cleanup and lawn-care services. Let us give you the beautiful, worry-free yard you deserve this spring!
