 | Justin Cawyer is the CEO of American Lawn & Landscape Inc., and has been in the landscape industry for 22 years. Starting out as a mowing service, their business has expanded to include everything from landscaping to fertilizing and weed control. For a complete list of services, you can see their ad in Names and Numbers, visit yardsbyamerican.com, or call 620-249-5700. |
Lawn, Garden & Landscaping
2013-03-01 14:47:59
What should I do to get my yard spring ready?
Q-What tips can you give me on getting my yard in shape for spring?
A-Just about this time every year, many people get the itch to get outside and begin again on their lawns and landscaping. Spring is a great time to begin all of those projects to make your yards look more appealing for upcoming warm weather celebrations.
First, look at the current state of your lawn and determine the current needs. The goal is to bring your lawn back to good health and whatever you do now will have a lasting impact on how well it fares through the warmer months ahead. You will want to consider picking up debris, dethatching, seeding, and applying a slow-release fertilizer.
Next, if your deciduous trees or shrubs are still dormant, you will want to trim back any branches that are crossing over or ones that might pose a threat of safety or ones that overhang areas where they could cause damage. Prune out any dead, broken or diseased branches or limbs from trees, shrubs, and roses.
If you have not already, cut back any perennials in the garden before they start to grow. Cut leaves and stalks down to nearly ground level.
Remember to clean out the flowerbeds from dead leaves or other debris that could harbor pests. It is also a good time to consider removing and replacing mulch. If adding new mulch, remember the depth should not exceed 3 inches.
This is also a great time to attend to your borders. Use a spade to truck back the soil away from the lawn, redefining the space. Consider adding edging while the area is freshly dug. Nothing makes a yard stand out more than crisp borders.
If you are using chemical control, you will want to be sure that you apply it correctly and at the right time. Much depends on the brand and type that you use and the particulars of each will affect such things as when you apply compost or fertilizer. It is easy to make mistakes here so make sure you know the product. If you are not sure, talk to a landscape professional.
Have a great spring and enjoy your beautiful yard.
