Spring Lawn Preparation Guide
Get your New Jersey lawn ready for the growing season with this comprehensive, step-by-step guide from Bruno's landscaping professionals. Follow these proven techniques for a lush, healthy lawn all season long.
Quick Overview
Spring lawn preparation is crucial for establishing a healthy foundation for the entire growing season. This guide covers the essential tasks needed to transition your lawn from winter dormancy to active growth.
Best Time to Start:
Early March when temperatures consistently reach 45°F
Completion Timeline:
6-8 weeks from start to finish
Seasonal Timeline
Early March
- Clean up debris
- Assess winter damage
- Check irrigation systems
Mid to Late March
- First mowing
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide
- Begin fertilization
Early April
- Core aeration
- Overseeding
- Deep watering begins
Late April
- Regular maintenance routine
- Monitor new growth
- Weed control
Supplies You'll Need
Essential Items
- Rake (both leaf and dethatching)
- Lawn mower with sharp blades
- Spring fertilizer (balanced N-P-K)
- Pre-emergent herbicide
- Garden hose with sprinkler attachment
Optional/Professional
- Core aerator (rent or hire)
- Grass seed (matching existing variety)
- Soil test kit
Step-by-Step Instructions
Clean Up Winter Debris
Remove leaves, branches, and any debris that accumulated over winter.
- Rake all areas thoroughly, including under shrubs and trees
- Remove dead plant material from flower beds
- Clear gutters and drainage areas
- Check for and repair any winter damage to hardscaping
Assess Winter Damage
Examine your lawn and landscape for winter damage and plan repairs.
- Look for brown or bare spots in the lawn
- Check for salt damage near driveways and walkways
- Inspect trees and shrubs for broken branches
- Note areas that may need reseeding or repair
Perform Soil Test
Test your soil pH and nutrient levels to guide your fertilization program.
- Collect soil samples from 6-8 different areas
- Test for pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels
- New Jersey soils typically need pH between 6.0-7.0
- Use results to select appropriate fertilizers
Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicide
Prevent crabgrass and other annual weeds from germinating.
- Apply when soil temperature reaches 55°F consistently
- Use a spreader for even application
- Water lightly after application
- Timing is critical - too early or late reduces effectiveness
Core Aeration
Relieve soil compaction and improve root growth and water penetration.
- Best done when soil is moist but not waterlogged
- Use a core aerator that removes plugs of soil
- Focus on high-traffic areas and compacted zones
- Leave soil plugs on surface to break down naturally
Fertilize and Overseed
Feed your lawn and fill in thin or bare areas with new grass seed.
- Apply a balanced spring fertilizer (e.g., 20-5-10)
- Choose grass seed that matches your existing lawn
- Rake seed into soil lightly for good contact
- Keep newly seeded areas consistently moist
Begin Regular Watering
Establish a proper watering schedule for the growing season.
- Water deeply but less frequently
- Early morning watering is best (6-10 AM)
- Provide 1-1.5 inches per week including rainfall
- Adjust based on weather conditions and grass type
First Mowing of the Season
Cut grass to proper height to encourage healthy growth.
- Ensure mower blades are sharp
- Set mower to highest recommended setting initially
- Never cut more than 1/3 of grass blade length
- Cool-season grasses: 2.5-3.5 inches tall
Pro Tips from Bruno's Experts
🌱 Timing is Everything
Don't rush spring tasks. Wait for consistent temperatures and soil that's not waterlogged. Working wet soil can cause compaction that lasts all season.
💧 Water Wisdom
New Jersey's spring weather can be unpredictable. Monitor rainfall and adjust watering accordingly. Overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering.
🔪 Sharp Blades Matter
Dull mower blades tear grass instead of cutting cleanly, leading to brown tips and increased disease risk. Sharpen or replace blades before the first mow.
🌿 Know Your Grass Type
New Jersey lawns typically have cool-season grasses like fescue or bluegrass. These have different care requirements than warm-season varieties.
Need Professional Help?
While this guide covers DIY spring preparation, Bruno's professionals can handle complex tasks like aeration, soil amendments, and comprehensive lawn renovation programs.