As homeowners look to keep their lawns healthy throughout the year, following a season-by-season approach can help achieve consistent results. Experts recommend focusing on specific tasks for each season to ensure grass remains strong and resilient.
In spring, aerating the lawn is advised to improve air, water, and fertilizer penetration to the roots. Applying fertilizer at this time helps nourish new growth after winter dormancy. Regular mowing—at least every two weeks—is also important, but experts caution against mowing when the grass is wet due to the risk of spreading disease.
Early summer brings increased mowing frequency, with weekly cuts recommended. Lawn care professionals suggest never removing more than half of the grass height in one pass and being vigilant about grubs and weeds. Removing weeds by hand, including their roots, can prevent future problems.
During summer, continued regular mowing and proper watering are key. Grass should not be cut lower than three inches from the ground, and watering should not exceed three inches per week. Cleaning mower blades after use helps maintain cutting efficiency. Raking or mulching large clippings is also suggested.
Early fall is considered an ideal time for de-thatching—removing dead grass—and applying compost as a top dressing. Over-seeding with quality grass seed suited for sun and shade can address thin areas. Covering newly seeded spots with grass clippings and keeping them moist supports new growth.
As fall progresses, raking leaves or using a mulching mower prevents fungal diseases that thrive under leaf cover. Fertilizing in fall stores nutrients in root systems for winter months. Winterizing irrigation systems protects equipment from freezing temperatures.
Winter requires minimal lawn care activity but offers an opportunity to prepare tools for spring by sharpening blades and replacing parts as needed. Homeowners are advised to avoid walking on snow-covered lawns to prevent damage.
For those seeking professional assistance, GreenPal connects homeowners with local lawn care providers experienced in seasonal maintenance.
"Lawn care involves specific seasonal activities," according to guidance provided in response to frequently asked questions about year-round maintenance: "In spring, clean up debris, mow high, apply fertilizer, treat weeds, and patch thin areas. Summer requires mowing at a high setting, treating for grubs, regular watering, and feeding the lawn. Fall focuses on fertilizing, seeding, mulching leaves, and mowing short. In winter, limit lawn traffic, use lawn-friendly ice melt, and plan for the upcoming year."
On weed and pest management: "For weeds, spot-treat with a weed control product that doesn't harm the grass. For pests like grubs, apply a preventive treatment in late spring or early summer."
Guidance on summer care emphasizes: "Mow at a high setting to promote deep, healthy roots... Water your lawn with at least 1 inch of water per week... Apply a summer-specific fertilizer to support growth and help the lawn withstand heat and drought."
Spring recommendations include: "Cleaning up the lawn by raking out dead grass and debris... Mowing at the highest setting appropriate for your grass type... Apply a suitable fertilizer... Spot-treating weeds and repairing any bare spots."
Early fall tasks are summarized as: "Early fall is the time for de-thatching, top dressing with compost, over-seeding with quality grass seed, and keeping newly seeded patches moist."
GreenPal offers access to vetted professionals who can assist homeowners seeking expert help throughout these seasonal cycles.