How to Get Your Yard Ready for Spring

  Yes I know it's early I just can't wait!

By Sarah Forhan
User-Submitted Article
The start of spring is a joyous time; the soil starts to come alive from its long winter sleep. The onset of spring is my favorite time to do yard work; there are few bugs, the weather is mild, and it's good for the soul to get fresh air after being cooped up all winter.

There are specific chores that need to be taken care of at the start of spring. I try to not to think of them as chores but rather a marvelous adventure in my own little horticultural playground.

1. 
   
   
   Step 1
   Clean-up after "Old Man Winter"! Pick up all sticks and debris that blew into your yard during winter. Rake all the leaves that blew against the house, sheds, fences, and other structures.
   
2. 
   
   
   Step 2
   Rake your lawn. It is very important to rake away the thatch that has built up on your lawn to give way for new growth. The best way to get up the thatch (excess grass clippings that build-up above the soil) is to use a de-thatching rake. If you do not have a specialty rake you can use a stiff-tined rake or attach a de-thatching blade to your lawn mower.
   
   
   
3. 
   
   
   Step 3
   Feed your lawn. I like to give my lawn a slow-release fertilizer. It works well because it gives the lawn nutrients but doesn't push the grass to grow sooner than it is ready. I have found the slow-release fertilizer is perfect for early spring. Baby steps with your lawn, work the best in early springtime. Especially, because this time of the year you can never be quite sure what the weather has in store for us.
   
4. 
   
   
   Step 4
   Make sure to take care of lawn mower maintenance. Now is the time to get the lawn mower ready for its big grand entrance into summer. Don't put off taking care of your lawn mower. Summer will come sooner than you think. First, inspect the lawn mower to make sure all the nuts and bolts are secure. Check the spark plugs if they are showing wear they will need to be changed. While the spark plugs are out it is also a good time to remove the lawnmower blade. (With the spark plugs removed you can be sure the lawn mower will not start). Use a file to sharpen the blade. Make sure to run the file along the same angle as the blade. Inspect the oil, if it is low, old, or dirty, properly dispose of it and replace it with new oil.