Preparing For Spring Lawn And Landscape Maintenance

I don’t know about you, but it seems like this winter is never going to end. I have lived in the Midwest for almost 12 years now and this has been the longest, coldest winter I can remember. The good news is, however, that it will soon end just like it does every year. But will you be ready to tackle the lawn care and landscape?

Begin setting both your budget and expectations now, so when the snow melts and flowers begin to bloom, you are set for a year.

I also recommend you begin calling local lawn and landscape pros now because many times you can take advantage of early season pricing plans that will offer you savings both now, and later on.

Here are some quick tips for getting started on your lawn care and landscape plans for 2009.

Lawn Trimming And Cutting

I’ve never done a study on this, but I assume that about half of you are do-it-yourselfers, and the other half hire a lawn maintenance company to mow, trim and edge our lawn. If you are going to DIY the lawn mowing, then you should definitely get out and tune up your mower and change the oil. Its also a good idea to have the blade sharpened prior to the first cut.

Lawn Treatments

Mowing your lawn is one thing, but what do you do to feed and protect it? Now is the time to make a plan and stick to it. Hiring a lawn care company is the first option many folks consider and they are on the right track. A lawn pro can tailor a program based on where your lawn is currently, and where you want it to be by summer. In addition, having trained professionals monitor the progress means you dont have to. If you are thinking of using a service this year, sign up now and take advantage of pre-season specials. If you plan to treat the turf yourself, then a trip to the local big box store is in order. You will notice they are already putting out the bags of fertilizer, fungus control and insect control and marking them on sale. Its a good idea to buy your products early so you can apply them in time to prevent most issues.

Ornamental Trees And Shrubs

It’s a given that you will need to have your trees, shrub and bushes trimmed at some point during the year, but have you thought about fertilizing them? It’s a great idea to give your landscape ornamentals a dose of nitrogen in the spring to set them off for the year. You also may want to consider having them sprayed and treated for damaging insects and fungus that can stunt their growth and cause them to decline. Believe it or not, you have a lot of money tied up in those plants out front, so take care of them now!

These three tips may seem simple, but they are very important in the grand scheme of your outdoor paradise. Get started now so you can get the jump on the weeds, and be ready for summer picnics on the lawn!