Spring is the season of new growth. It’s also the best time to bring your yard back to life. But it’s not just about tossing down some grass seed. A good lawn spring clean-up gets everything off to the right start for the season. Skip it, and your lawn might struggle all year. Do it right, and you’ll see green faster than your neighbor.
Start With the Junk
First step? Clear the mess. Winter leaves behind sticks, salt, sand, and dead grass. If it’s not cleaned up, fresh blades can’t push through.
Rake it all. Pull up the clumps. Break up the matted stuff. Airflow helps roots dry out and breathe. That’s how grass gets healthy fast.
Watch for mole tunnels or low spots too. Spring is the best time to fix them before mowing season kicks in.
Rake Deep
Don’t stop at a light pass. Use a metal rake and go deep. Dig out the thatch — the dead grass stuck between soil and green blades.
Too much thatch blocks water and keeps roots soggy. A good rake opens it up. That helps seeds reach soil and stops fungus from growing.
It also wakes up the lawn. Grass loves a good rough-up after winter. It kicks it back into gear.
Test the Soil
If grass was patchy last year, test the soil. You don’t need a lab. Just grab a cheap kit and check for pH and nutrients.
Martha’s Vineyard soil leans sandy and low on nutrients. It often needs lime to balance pH. A little goes a long way.
Feed the soil before you seed. That way, your grass gets a better start and stays green longer.
Seed the Bare Spots
Look for thin patches or bald spots. Spring is the right time to fix them.
Loosen the top layer of soil. Spread seed evenly. Use a light layer of compost to hold moisture. Then water gently.
Don’t mow too soon. Let it grow tall and strong. Strong roots hold up better in heat and dry spells.
Cut It Right
When the first mow rolls around, take it slow. Don’t scalp it.
Cut only the top third of the grass. Keep blades sharp. Dull blades rip the grass instead of slicing it clean, which damages it and causes browning.
Also, change up the mowing pattern each time. That keeps ruts from forming and helps the grass stand straighter.
Feed It Light
Skip the heavy spring fertilizer. Too much can lead to fast top growth but weak roots.
Go for a light, slow-release blend. That feeds it just enough to grow steady.
If you used compost, you might not need much more. Grass will tell you what it needs. Look for dull color or slow growth. That’s your cue.
Water with Care
Don’t soak the lawn daily. That makes roots lazy.
Instead, water deeply but less often. Two to three times a week is plenty for spring. Aim for early morning to stop fungus.
Shallow watering leads to shallow roots. Deep watering builds strong ones. That matters once summer hits.
Don’t Forget the Edges
Fresh grass is great. But nothing kills curb appeal like messy edges.
Trim around beds, walks, and patios. A clean line makes the whole yard look better — even if the grass is still filling in.
This small job gives big results fast.
Add Structure
If your lawn feels flat or boring, think about edges, paths, or stones. These help shape the space and draw the eye where you want it to go.
Spring clean up landscaping isn’t just about plants. It includes hardscapes too — and those last longer than grass.
Consider a stone border, a gravel walk, or a small wall. It doesn’t have to be big. Just clean and clear.
Keep It Going
One spring push sets you up for months. But don’t let it slide after April.
Keep mowing. Keep trimming. Watch for weeds. Add seed when needed. Don’t wait until the lawn looks bad.
A little each week beats a big fix later.
Conclusion
A fresh lawn doesn’t need fancy gear or tricks. It just needs the right steps, done at the right time. Clean up, cut right, feed light, and stay consistent. That’s how to make your yard look great from spring through fall.
For those who want expert help with cleanups, seeding, pruning, or yard care, Bilzerian Tree and Land Services is a trusted name across Martha’s Vineyard. From lawn spring clean up to full property care, their crew gets the job done right.
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