Spring lawn care schedule

Wait until the ground is firm before heavy traffic. Rake lightly where debris or matted turf blocks airflow. UMN cautions against aggressive spring work on wet soil because compaction and turf damage can set the lawn back.

Begin mowing when turf is actively growing and dry enough to cut cleanly. Keep height high for cool-season turf. For crabgrass prevention, use soil temperature and local timing before the germination window, then water in according to the label.

Avoid heavy early fertilizer on cool-season lawns. UMN recommends waiting until active growth is underway or emphasizing fall fertilization. Spring seeding can work for small bare patches, but larger cool-season renovation is usually stronger in late summer or early fall.

Check soil temperature, compare your grass-specific calendar, then log applications in the app. If you need pre-emergent or starter fertilizer, use the Price Board after confirming label fit.