After a long, harsh winter and months of hibernation, your yard is now ready for warmer temperatures. To ensure that the soil is ready to grow some new grass and flowers, you need to take a few steps to set it up for success.

Resetting your sprinkler system and aerating the lawn can do wonders for your trees, plants, and shrubs.

Read on for 5 essential spring maintenance tips that’ll get your yard ready for the warmer season ahead.

1. Aerate Your Lawn

The first and most crucial step to preparing your yard for spring is to aerate the soil. You can do this by poking holes in the ground using a rake or special aerating tools such as a spike or plug aerators.

This process will help the soil absorb nutrients, water, and oxygen better so that the grass, plants, and trees thrive in the spring.

2. Rake and Mow Your Lawn

After you aerate, you might be wondering when to mow your lawn, especially if leaves are still falling from trees. It’s best to do this right before using soil fertilizers and planting new plants. You want the surface to be clean from debris, twigs, and weeds before you mow.

Once you mow the entire yard, you’ll be able to notice any bare patches where you can reseed grass. Make sure to check your mower before you begin and sharpen any dull blades.

3. Fertilize the Yard

After raking and mowing, your yard is now clean and ready for fertilizing. As soon as you notice the grass growing, you should spread nitrogen-rich fertilizer to help it thrive.

The key to lush, healthy grass is in choosing the right fertilizer for your yard. Consult your local garden center for advice. Different soil types and climates require different fertilizers, so make sure you do your research before you buy.

4. Prune Any Trees or Shrubs

During winter, trees and shrubs lose their leaves as they get ready to grow new ones. By pruning, you help them get rid of any dried or dead parts and make room for new branches.

This is a great way to create additional space for flower beds and decide what type of xeriscaping or landscaping you want to do.

5. Set up Your Sprinklers

Once your yard is all clean, using a sprinkler system will finish everything off and get it ready for spring. No matter how much rainfall there is in your area, the grass may still need additional moisture. For best results, turn on the sprinklers either at night or in the early morning hours to help the grass absorb more water.

Get Your Yard Ready With These Spring Maintenance Tips

Whether you have a big backyard or a small patch of land in the front, preparing it for the spring season is a must if you want lush greenery.

These backyard spring maintenance tips will help you set everything up in no time and give your yard the sprucing up it needs.

Now that your backyard is ready for the warmer temperatures, it’s time to get your home all ready for spring as well. Read this article to get the spring home maintenance checklist you need today.