When spring is in the air and the daffodils return, it is time to have a look at your lawn.
Raking
Raking is the first thing to do to get your lawn ready for new growth. Even if you raked in the fall, you still need to rake in the spring.
Thatch is the mainly dead grass tissue lying between the green vegetation of the grass above and the root system and soil below. If it becomes too thick it can be bad for the health of the grass.
You need to rake deeply. This is also good for your muscles in your arms, chest, shoulders, and upper and lower back. Just do it in moderation! Use a flexible leaf rake.
Soil
Before adding soil amendments its a good idea to have a soil test done. Take the guesswork out of what your soil is lacking.
You may need to overseed, which is the process of sowing seed over bare patches from dog spots, heavy traffic or neglect. Apply a slow release nitrogen fertilizer (starter fertilizer) when you overseed.
Fertilizing
Lawns can be fertilized organically by topdressing with compost or using a mulching mower. For those who prefer the fast acting effects of a chemical fertilizer you can give your lawn a lighter feeding in the spring and a heavier one in the fall.
Watering
The best time to water your lawn is in the early morning, when the sun is starting to rise. You will lose more water to evaporation if you water in the afternoon while the sun is shining. You will leave the grass too wet, promoting fungus growth, if you water in the evening!
