Cooperative Extension

Spring Lawn Care

Some things you can do to shape up your lawn in spring

Fertilizer – If you fertilized in the fall, your grass should be greening up on its own in late March. Extension does not recommend spring or summer fertilization for cool season (fescue, bluegrass) lawns.

Crabgrass Prevention – When the forsythia is in full yellow bloom it's time to apply "pre-emergent" crabgrass control. This material creates a barrier on the soil which kills crabgrass seedlings as they try to germinate.

If crabgrass has been a major problem in the past, a second application of the pre-emergent may be necessary in late May.

Broadleaf weeds – Broadleaf weeds that are present in March will be dying naturally by the end of April. However in early May, summer weeds are just beginning to grow and can be easily controlled with a liquid weed killer. Once the heat of summer arrives, it's difficult to control weeds in the lawn.

Lime – Many Chesterfield soils are too acidic for optimal grass growth. The addition of lime helps to raise pH and release nutrients in the soil so the grass can use them. Contrary to popular belief, you CAN add too much lime to your lawn, which may damage it. A simple soil test will tell IF you need to add lime and how much to apply. LIME ONLY IF INDICATED BY A SOIL TEST!

DON'T BAG ‘EM – Research has shown that by not bagging grass clippings you can provide 25% of the fertilizer needs of your lawn as the grass clippings decompose on the ground. Clippings are very high in nitrogen and moisture. Consequently, they will decompose quickly (and not contribute to thatch!) – releasing slow release, organic fertilizer.

If you have additional questions about spring lawn care, contact our agent, Mike Likins, at 751-4401 or e-mail at likins@vt.edu.

DISCLAIMER

Commercial products and organizations are named in this publication for information purposes only. The Virginia Cooperative Extension Service, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Virginia State University do not endorse or warrant these products and organizations and do not intend or imply discrimination against other products or organizations that also may be suitable.