Spring Lawn Cleanup Checklist for Homeowners in New Baltimore

✅ 1. Clear Debris

Winter often leaves behind a surprising amount of organic debris that can block sunlight and prevent new grass growth. A clean yard helps your lawn breathe and absorb nutrients as temperatures rise. Begin by raking and removing leaves, sticks, and any leftover winter mulch. Be sure to check under shrubs, fences, and other hidden areas where debris can accumulate. Once gathered, dispose of yard waste through curbside pickup, municipal drop-off, or compost what you can to return nutrients back into your landscape.

✅ 2. Inspect Lawn for Winter Damage

Take a walk across your lawn and inspect it for damage caused by snow, ice, or salt. Watch for snow mold, matted patches, or bare spots—these can hinder early-season growth. If you see puddling or consistently soggy areas, your soil may be compacted and in need of aeration. Flag any areas that might require reseeding or specialized treatment as part of your spring restoration plan.

✅ 3. Light Raking and Dethatching

In early spring, raking helps loosen matted grass and stimulate airflow, which is especially important in lawns recovering from snow cover. Thatch, a dense layer of dead grass and roots, can block water and nutrient absorption if it builds up too thick. If your lawn has more than half an inch of thatch, consider mechanical dethatching to promote new growth. Just be careful not to rake too aggressively if your grass hasn’t fully exited dormancy.

✅ 4. First Mow of the Season

Make sure your mower is cleaned, tuned up, and fitted with a sharp blade. A dull blade can tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which leads to ragged edges and increases the risk of disease. Cut no more than 1/3 of the grass blade in one mowing session to prevent stress. Begin the season by mowing on a higher setting to encourage deep root growth and reduce the chance of weed invasion. Avoid mowing wet grass to prevent compaction and mower damage, and always alternate mowing patterns to avoid soil ruts and promote upright grass growth. is cleaned, tuned up, and fitted with a sharp blade. Cut no more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time to avoid scalping. This encourages healthy, dense growth and reduces vulnerability to weeds and disease.

• Mow on a higher setting to avoid stressing the turf
• Sharpen blades for a clean, even cut
• Avoid mowing wet grass to reduce compaction and ruts

✅ 5. Edge Beds and Walkways

Well-defined edges between your lawn and garden beds give your landscape a polished, maintained appearance. Recutting bed lines in spring creates clear separation between turf and planting areas, helping to contain mulch and keep grass from creeping into flower beds. To edge properly, use a sharp half-moon spade or a mechanical edger to slice through the turf along your bed lines. Clean up the excess sod and define the shape of each bed to prepare for mulching or planting. For long-term maintenance, consider installing edging materials like metal, stone, or plastic borders. between your lawn and garden beds give your landscape a polished, maintained appearance. Recutting bed lines in spring creates clear separation between turf and planting areas, helping to contain mulch and keep grass from creeping into flower beds. Use a sharp spade or a mechanical edger to follow your existing bed shapes or redesign with a fresh outline for the new season.

✅ 6. Apply Pre-Emergent Weed Control

Spring is prime time to fight back against weeds like crabgrass before they get a foothold. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide early in the season creates a chemical barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating. For best results, apply when soil temperatures consistently reach around 55°F, usually in early to mid-spring. Use a broadcast spreader for even application across the lawn. Focus on high-risk areas with a history of weed problems, and avoid overlapping if you've recently seeded. Lightly water the area after application to activate the herbicide and prevent it from being disturbed by wind or foot traffic. to fight back against weeds like crabgrass before they get a foothold. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide early in the season creates a chemical barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating. Focus on high-risk areas with a history of weed problems. Be careful not to apply pre-emergents in areas where you intend to reseed, as it can prevent new grass from sprouting. Light watering after application activates the barrier and maximizes protection.

✅ 7. Fertilize with a Spring Lawn Formula

A spring fertilizer application helps feed your lawn as it exits dormancy and begins rapid growth. Choose a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support root and blade development. Before applying, mow and water your lawn lightly. Use a broadcast spreader to apply fertilizer evenly, overlapping slightly as you walk in a grid pattern. Water thoroughly afterward unless the product indicates otherwise. If you're unsure what your lawn needs, perform a soil test to determine nutrient deficiencies and customize your approach. helps feed your lawn as it exits dormancy and begins rapid growth. Choose a balanced, slow-release fertilizer tailored for early-season application, ideally with a nitrogen-rich formulation to support green-up. Over-fertilizing can cause burn or promote excessive top growth at the expense of root development, so apply carefully. A soil test can determine what nutrients your lawn actually needs and prevent overuse of products.

✅ 8. Reseed Bare Patches

If you spot thinning areas or bare patches in your lawn, spring is an excellent time to reseed. Start by loosening the topsoil with a rake or garden fork to improve seed-to-soil contact. Remove any debris or dead grass before applying seed. Choose a cool-season seed mix suited to southeast Michigan’s climate and match it to sun or shade conditions. Spread the seed evenly over the area, then press it into the soil with a lawn roller or your foot. Lightly cover with straw or biodegradable mulch to retain moisture and protect young seedlings. Water daily until the grass is established, then gradually reduce frequency. areas or bare patches in your lawn, spring is an excellent time to reseed. Start by loosening the topsoil with a rake or garden fork to improve seed-to-soil contact. Then spread a cool-season seed mix appropriate for southeast Michigan’s climate, focusing on shade or sun-specific areas as needed. Lightly cover with straw or biodegradable mulch to protect young seedlings from erosion, birds, and drying out while they establish.

✅ 9. Check Irrigation and Drainage

Before the growing season is in full swing, take time to assess your irrigation and drainage systems. Test your sprinklers to ensure they provide even coverage and aren’t watering driveways, sidewalks, or other non-lawn areas. Replace broken heads, fix leaks, and adjust timers for spring weather conditions. Check gutters, downspouts, and landscape grading to confirm water is draining away from your home and garden beds. Good drainage prevents root rot and keeps your lawn from becoming waterlogged—especially important in clay-heavy New Baltimore soil.

✅ 10. Refresh Mulch and Clean Beds

Spring is an ideal time to refresh mulch and prepare landscape beds for planting. Begin by removing any old mulch, leaves, and weeds that may have accumulated over winter. Use a rake or cultivator to loosen the soil and reshape the bed edges if needed. Apply a fresh 2–3 inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and perennials. Use organic mulch like shredded bark or hardwood for long-lasting moisture retention and temperature regulation. Be sure to leave a few inches of space around plant stems and tree trunks to avoid rot and pest issues. Mulched beds not only support healthy plants but also give your landscape a finished look. time to refresh mulch and prepare landscape beds for planting. Remove any old mulch or debris that may harbor pests or diseases, then weed the area thoroughly. Apply a fresh 2–3 inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and perennials to suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Leave a few inches of space around the base of plants to avoid rot and improve airflow. Clean, mulched beds are both functional and visually appealing.

✅ 11. Power Wash Hard Surfaces and Seal Brickwork

Spring is the perfect time to restore the beauty and safety of your hardscaped areas. Begin by using a pressure washer to clean driveways, sidewalks, patios, and retaining walls. Focus on removing built-up grime, algae, mildew, and salt residue from winter. Start with a low-pressure setting and gradually increase as needed, being cautious around mortar joints and delicate surfaces.

For homes with pavers or brick features, once the surface is clean and dry, consider applying a quality brick or paver sealer. Choose a sealant that is appropriate for your material (e.g., wet-look or natural matte). Use a roller or sprayer to apply an even coat, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Sealing helps prevent moisture penetration, reduces weed growth between joints, and enhances the overall appearance and lifespan of the hardscape.

This final step in your spring cleanup boosts curb appeal and protects your investment for the season ahead. to power wash your sidewalks, patios, and driveways. Removing layers of grime, algae, and winter residue not only improves curb appeal but also prevents slippery surfaces and premature wear. For homes with pavers or brick features, consider scheduling professional brick sealing to protect against moisture damage and fading. Sealing also enhances the color and durability of your hardscape, keeping it looking sharp well into summer.