There are signs of Spring across Central Florida; here’s a guide to prepare your yard for spring:

1. Assess Lawn Health
Start by inspecting your lawn for any signs of damage from winter, such as brown patches, disease, or pests. Warm-season grasses, like St. Augustine, Zoysia, and Bermuda, begin to grow actively as temperatures rise.

2. Dethatch and Aerate
If your lawn has excessive thatch buildup (a thick layer of dead grass and roots), dethatching will help improve water and nutrient absorption. Aerating the soil also helps relieve compaction, allowing oxygen, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper.

3. Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Weeds such as crabgrass and spurge thrive in warm climates. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring (February to March) helps prevent weed seeds from sprouting. Follow up with a post-emergent herbicide if necessary.

4. Fertilize Properly
Spring is an ideal time to apply a balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer. Choose a slow-release formula suited for your grass type. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and increased vulnerability to pests.

5. Check Irrigation Systems
Inspect and adjust your sprinkler system for proper coverage. Ensure it provides deep, infrequent watering (typically 1 to 1.5 inches per week), which promotes deep root growth. Watering in the early morning prevents evaporation and fungal growth.

6. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Trim back any dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs to promote new growth. For flowering plants, prune after they bloom to avoid cutting off flower buds.

7. Refresh Mulch and Garden Beds
Adding a fresh layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic mulch, such as pine bark or cypress, to enhance soil health.

8. Plant Warm-Season Flowers and Vegetables
Spring is perfect for planting heat-tolerant flowers like marigolds, petunias, and salvia. Start planting tomatoes, peppers, squash, and herbs such as basil and oregano for vegetable gardens.

9. Pest and Disease Control
Watch for common Florida pests like chinchbugs, armyworms, and aphids. Use insecticidal soap or natural predators like ladybugs to manage infestations. Fungal diseases can be prevented with proper watering and airflow around plants.

10. Edge and Maintain Walkways
Re-edge flower beds and walkways for a clean look. Remove any fallen leaves and debris to prevent mold and pests.
By following these steps, your yard will thrive throughout Central Florida’s warm and humid spring season.

ELT Landscape is here if you need a hand with any of the ten items on this list. Contact us today for a free estimate.