### Spring Landscape Awakening (March-May)

Renewal Season: Preparing Your Landscape for Peak Growing Season

Spring maintenance activates dormant plants, repairs winter damage, and establishes the foundation for a year of healthy growth and beauty.

March: Early Spring Assessment and Cleanup

Comprehensive Landscape Inspection (Time: 2-3 hours)

1. Winter Damage Assessment - Survey all plants for ice, snow, and wind damage - Check irrigation system components for freeze damage - Inspect hardscaping for frost heave and settling - Document problems with photos for insurance/warranty claims

2. Soil Condition Evaluation - Test soil compaction in high-traffic areas - Check for erosion problems from winter runoff - Assess drainage patterns and problem areas - Plan soil amendments and improvement projects

Spring Cleanup Tasks (Time: 1-2 days)

1. Debris Removal and Pruning Dead-heading and Cleanup: - Remove dead annuals and damaged perennials - Clear leaves and debris from planting beds - Prune dead and damaged branches from trees/shrubs - Edge and define planting bed boundaries

Tool Maintenance: - Sharpen and oil all cutting tools - Service power equipment (mowers, trimmers, blowers) - Check and replace worn irrigation components - Organize and inventory gardening supplies

2. Soil Preparation Soil Testing and Amendment: - Conduct soil pH test (ideal: 6.0-7.0 for most plants) - Add organic matter (compost, aged manure) - Apply lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower pH - Aerate compacted lawn areas

April: Plant Care and System Activation

Lawn Spring Renovation (Time: 1-2 days)

1. Cool-Season Grass Care (Northern climates) Spring Lawn Tasks: - Rake to remove thatch and debris - Core aerate if soil is compacted - Overseed thin or bare areas - Apply pre-emergent herbicide for crabgrass control - Begin regular mowing when grass reaches 3+ inches

Fertilization Program: - Apply slow-release nitrogen fertilizer (1 lb N per 1,000 sq ft) - Use starter fertilizer for seeded areas - Consider organic alternatives (compost, compost tea) - Time application before expected rain

2. Warm-Season Grass Preparation (Southern climates) - Wait for soil temperature to reach 65°F consistently - Clean up winter debris and dormant grass - Plan overseeding or sodding for damaged areas - Prepare irrigation system for increasing water needs

Irrigation System Startup and Testing

1. System Inspection and Activation Startup Checklist: - [ ] Check main water supply and shutoff valves - [ ] Inspect backflow prevention device - [ ] Turn on water supply gradually - [ ] Test each zone for proper operation - [ ] Adjust sprinkler heads for proper coverage - [ ] Program controller for spring schedule

Common Spring Problems: - Broken sprinkler heads from freeze damage - Clogged emitters in drip irrigation systems - Controller programming lost during power outages - Valve box flooding from winter moisture

May: Planting and Establishment

Strategic Planting Program

1. Annual and Perennial Installation Timing Guidelines: - Cool-season annuals: Plant after last hard freeze - Warm-season annuals: Plant after soil warms to 60°F - Perennials: Spring or fall planting preferred - Container plants: Can plant anytime with proper care Planting Success Factors: - Proper soil preparation and amendment - Appropriate plant selection for site conditions - Correct planting depth and spacing - Establishment watering schedule

2. Mulching Program (Cost: $3-$8 per cubic yard) Mulching Benefits: - Moisture retention (reduces watering by 25-50%) - Weed suppression (reduces maintenance by 60-80%) - Soil temperature moderation - Organic matter addition as mulch decomposes

Mulch Types and Applications: - Shredded hardwood: 2-3 inch depth, most common - Shredded leaves: Free, excellent for vegetable gardens - Pine straw: 3-4 inch depth, acidic plants preferred - Gravel/stone: Permanent, good for Mediterranean plants