Lawn Prep in 3 Easy Steps

Nothing is more exciting than the thought of springtime after a long, cold winter. Make plans for a beautiful yard and garden.

Nothing is more exciting than the thought of springtime after a long, cold winter. Longer days, fewer layers of clothing, and plans for a beautiful yard and garden are only a few weeks away. If you love the outdoors as much as we do, you understand why having an attractive lawn is a necessity. Spending time outdoors with family and friends is more enjoyable when your outdoor space is in tiptop shape!

We have some basic tips to help you get started on the perfect lawn, and one of the most important things you can do involves the whole family. Bundle up your kids and have them help clear off any big tree branches that may have fallen, sticks, and other forms of debris from the front and back yard. A great lawn begins with the removal of debris, and getting the entire family involved makes clean up faster. You’ll be surprised what you may find as you venture out into your yard this time of year. Items may have blown through the neighborhood and ended up in your back yard!

Warmer weather also brings a greener lawn, so it’s time to start thinking about the condition of your lawn mower. Hopefully, you winterized your mower so it’s ready to go as the weather improves. The season’s first ride or push of your lawn mower is an important one, and lowering the blades on your mower is an important rule to follow. Your first mow helps to remove dead grass leaves and is often called “scalping”. Scalping allows for the sun’s rays to warm the soil more quickly, increasing the rate of green up.

If you’re not sure when to apply crabgrass preventer, it’s best to wait until after the grass is greener and you mow the yard once. Using a pre-emergent herbicide to reduce summer weeds, purchased in a granular form or applied with a broadcast spreader, is an essential step in creating a beautiful lawn. Often, an application of water is needed to activate the herbicide.

Giving your lawn a solid foundation for a healthy appearance all summer long begins with these basic tips. Visit Joe’s Market Basket at one of our four locations serving Troy, O’Fallon, Edwardsville and Godfrey. If you are looking for other seasonal lawn and gardening tips, visit our website at www.joesmarketbasket.com or find us on Facebook. We’re here to help you create the outdoor living space of your dreams!