Getting Your Lawn in Top Shape for Spring

After a long winter, spring is the time to get your lawn back on track. A bit of work now will set it up for a healthy and tidy look all year. Here are the key steps to getting your lawn sorted as the weather warms up.

1. The First Mow

Don’t scalp the lawn on the first cut. Set your mower deck high and go for a gentle trim - this lets the lawn get used to being cut again without stressing it. Make sure your mower blade is sharp, as a sharp blade gives a clean cut, which helps the grass recover faster.

2. Dethatch and Aerate

Winter can lead to a buildup of thatch—dead grass, moss and other material that chokes the lawn. Use a dethatcher to pull this out - this job lets the soil breathe and helps nutrients and water get down to the roots. Aerating the lawn with a core aerator is another good move. It breaks up compacted soil, allowing for better drainage and stronger root growth.

3. Fertilise

Your lawn is hungry after winter. A good spring fertiliser with a high nitrogen content will give it a needed boost and some instant results with lush green growth. Follow the instructions on the bag and spread it evenly across the lawn or with a handheld spreader - this will promote strong growth and a good colour.

4. Deal with Weeds

As the weather warms, weeds will start to appear, and it's a good idea to get on top of them early. For small numbers, you can pull them by hand - or if you have a larger problem across the lawn, a targeted weed killer will work wonders when used correctly. Dealing with them now stops them from taking over the lawn later in the season.

5. Check Your Gear

Before the busy mowing season begins, take the time to service your gear. Check your mower’s oil level and quality, oil filter, fuel filter, air filter, and spark plug. Put a fresh batch of fuel in, as the old fuel may well be stale and affect the engine performance. Make sure any other equipment, like trimmers or blowers, is ready to go - a quick check now saves you a lot of hassle when you need them most!

Getting your lawn in top shape for spring is a bit of work, but it’s worth it. Following these steps will give you a healthier lawn that’s ready for the months ahead.