After a long winter, spring is finally in sight. Preparing your landscape for the warmer months ahead will help it look its best throughout the season. From fertilizing to servicing your lawn mower, here are a few steps to take before the spring arrives.

How to Get Your Landscaping Ready for Spring

1. Clear Away Debris

Fall and winter can leave twigs, leaves, and litter on the lawn. Use a rake or blower to clear accumulation and improve the yard's visual appeal. Take the chance to rake away thatch, which is the layer of yellow, dry grass between the surface blades and soil. Removing these particles will also allow the grass to better absorb fertilizers, sunlight, and rain throughout the growing season.

2. Treat Bare Patches

Bare spots on the lawn can detract from the beauty of the landscape. If you didn't overseed in the fall, now is the time to do so to prevent grass from thinning out in areas with compacted soil or less access to nutrients. About five weeks after the newly seeded areas begin to thrive, add a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer to the lawn to boost growth throughout.

3. Eliminate Weeds

Weeds compete with grass for the nutrients and moisture it needs to thrive. The best solution to unwanted growths is to prevent them from germinating by using pre-emergent herbicides. These products coat new seeds to prevent weeds from establishing roots.

Since most pre-emergent herbicides prevent all seeds from sprouting, take special care if you overseeded the soil. In this case, pick a product that relies on mesotrione, an active ingredient that doesn't harm grass seedlings. 

4. Have the Lawn Mower Serviced

You’ll use a lawn mower frequently throughout spring and summer, so prepare it for the busy months ahead by having it serviced now. A professional tuneup typically involves replacing the filter, changing the oil, and adding a new spark plug. Scheduling preventive service will help the engine run smoothly, consuming less fuel and avoiding overheating, which will increase the machine's life span.
 

If you need lawn mower service, turn to Turf & Trails Outdoor Equipment. Homeowners throughout Foristell, MO, and the surrounding area trust these professionals for reliable lawn mower tuneups and repairs. If you need to replace your equipment, they also carry an extensive selection of new and used products from many of the industry’s leading brands. Visit the website for more information about their services, or call (636) 673-7999 to request a quote.