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If your backyard had a long winter, the signs are probably starting to show. Maybe the grass looks dull, the soil feels compacted, and leftover leaves or branches are still hanging around. While it can be tempting to jump straight into mowing or fertilizing to bring it back to life, landscape expert Greg Cuoco says it’s important to understand your lawn’s needs before taking action. “Like a bear waking up from hibernation, dormant grass is slow to awaken but once it does, it’s hungry—for some TLC,” says Cuoco, the CEO of The Difference Landscapes, a New Hampshire-based landscape design firm. Wondering what should be on the menu? Ahead, Cuoco shares his best tips for getting your lawn ready for spring.
1. Sharpen and clean your tools.
Before you even think about touching your lawn, it’s time to take stock of your tools.
“I consider mower blade condition an essential part of lawn maintenance because sharp blades make clean cuts and protect plant health,” says Cuoco. “Dull mower blades produce uneven grass cuts, which can turn grass brown and make it susceptible to disease.”
Cuoco recommends removing the blade carefully, sharpening it with a blade-sharpening kit or metal file, and checking for proper balance before reattaching. Rakes, hoes, and edgers should also be cleaned, dried, and lightly oiled to prevent rust.
2. Test your soil.
Healthy grass may look great on top, but it all starts below the surface, with strong roots, nutrient-rich soil, and consistent care.
“A soil test will determine the pH level and essential nutrients found in your soil and also identify nutrients to add for optimal soil composition and lawn health,” Cuoco says.
While DIY kits are available, he suggests investing in a digital pH meter and sending soil samples to a lab annually for detailed readings of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels—or “the holy grail of plant foods,” as Cuoco calls them. “This soil test data will help you pick the right fertilizer and/or mulch, based on your soil’s needs,” he explains.
3. Clear debris after the last frost.
Timing matters when it comes to cleanup.
“There’s not much to do before the last frost,” says Cuoco. “Try not to walk on your lawns when the ground is still frozen or wet. Frozen grass blades break easily and can cause brown spots or dead patches of grass. If the soil is wet, foot traffic compacts the soil and harms plant roots.”
Once conditions are dry, remove fallen branches, leaves, and other debris to improve airflow and allow sunlight to reach the soil.
4. Make your first mow count.
Your first mow of the season sets the stage for healthy growth all year. Cuoco recommends starting gently to avoid shocking your grass.
“Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass should be mown when they reach about three inches in height, and warm-season grasses (e.g., Bermuda grass) about an inch,” he says. “Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing as this will severely stress the grass.”
Cutting gradually encourages stronger root development, keeps the grass healthy, and reduces stress on your lawn.
5. Fertilize at the right time.
Timing is everything when it comes to fertilizing. Fertilize too soon, and the nutrients won’t reach the grass; wait too long, and you miss the early growth boost. Cuoco says early spring fertilization can be effective—but only under the right conditions.
“Just don’t fertilize when the ground is still frozen as grass cannot absorb the nutrients,” he says. “Premature fertilization is ineffective, wasteful, and expensive.”
A thoughtful approach to spring prep doesn’t require complicated steps—just good timing and attention to detail. Follow these key steps, and your backyard will be well on its way to a strong, healthy spring.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
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