How to Prepare Your Lawn for Early Spring Growth

Essential steps to jumpstart a lush, healthy lawn this season.

Why Early Spring Lawn Care Matters

As winter transitions into spring, your lawn begins to wake up from dormancy. The care you give it now will determine how well it thrives through the growing season. A strategic early spring approach—including clean-up, fertilization, and weed prevention—sets the foundation for a vibrant, healthy lawn.

In this guide, we’ll cover essential early spring lawn care steps, focusing on fertilization, crabgrass prevention, and proper mowing techniques to give your lawn the best possible start.

1. Start with a Spring Clean-Up

Winter leaves behind debris, compacted soil, and dormant grass that needs attention before growth kicks in.

Steps for a Successful Spring Clean-Up:

• Remove debris – Clear leaves, sticks, and any winter buildup to improve airflow and prevent fungal growth.
• Lightly rake – This helps loosen matted grass and stimulates new growth. Avoid aggressive raking, which can damage fragile early-spring grass.
• Check for winter damage – Look for snow mold, salt damage, or thinning areas that might need extra care.

A well-prepared lawn ensures fertilizers and pre-emergent weed control work effectively.

2. Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide to Prevent Weeds

Spring is prime time for crabgrass and other weeds to germinate. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring stops weed seeds from sprouting before they take over your lawn.

When to Apply:

• Timing is critical – Apply when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F, which typically happens in early to mid-spring (around March in the Midwest).
• Use a pre-emergent with fertilizer – Many early spring fertilizers include crabgrass preventers, offering a two-in-one benefit.
• Water after application – Lightly water the lawn to activate the herbicide and allow it to soak into the soil.

If you plan to overseed your lawn, wait until fall. Pre-emergent herbicides will prevent both weeds and new grass seed from growing.

3. Fertilize to Jumpstart Healthy Growth

After winter dormancy, your grass is hungry for nutrients. A spring fertilizer application gives it the boost it needs for strong root development and vibrant green color.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer:

• Look for a balanced fertilizer with nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
• Slow-release fertilizers provide steady nutrients over time, reducing the risk of overgrowth and stress.
• If your lawn had issues last year, a soil test can help determine specific nutrient needs.

Best Fertilization Practices:

• Apply when grass starts growing again (soil temps above 50°F).
• Use a spreader for even application.
• Follow the recommended application rate to avoid over-fertilization.

Spring fertilization strengthens your lawn’s root system, making it more resistant to summer heat and drought.

4. Proper Mowing Techniques for Early Spring

Mowing is one of the most overlooked aspects of lawn health. Cutting too short can weaken the grass and encourage weeds, while proper mowing thickens your turf.

Spring Mowing Tips:

• Wait until the grass is at least 3-4 inches tall before the first mow.
• Set your mower height to 2.5-3 inches – Cutting too short weakens the grass.
• Keep mower blades sharp to ensure a clean cut, reducing stress on grass blades.

Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn naturally fertilizes the soil and helps retain moisture.

5. Water Wisely to Promote Deep Root Growth

Spring rainfall often provides enough moisture, but as temperatures rise, you’ll need a watering plan.

Watering Guidelines for Spring:

• Water deeply and infrequently to encourage strong root growth.
• Morning watering is best (before 10 AM) to prevent evaporation and fungal diseases.
• Avoid overwatering, which leads to shallow roots and weak grass.

A properly watered lawn will be more resilient against summer heat and stress.

What NOT to Do in Early Spring

• Do not apply weed-and-feed products too early – If the ground is still cold, the fertilizer won’t be absorbed properly, and pre-emergents may be wasted.
• Do not scalp your lawn – Cutting grass too short removes essential nutrients stored in the blades and weakens overall growth.

Final Thoughts: Set Your Lawn Up for Success This Spring

Early spring lawn care is all about preparation – clearing debris, fertilizing, preventing weeds, and mowing correctly. By following these essential steps, you’ll promote healthy root growth, reduce weed competition, and enjoy a lush, green lawn all season long.

Need Professional Lawn Care Help?
If you’re in the Cincinnati or Dayton area, American Pride Landscaping can handle fertilization, weed control, and lawn maintenance to give you the best-looking yard on the block. Contact us today for expert lawn care services!