Spring is a popular time for landscape maintenance due to the mild weather conditions. Homeowners look forward to cooler temperatures and the potential for increased rainfall before the intense heat sets in. Take advantage of the pleasant spring climate with our expert advice on lawn fertilization and weed control.
In Texas, many homeowners have warm-season grass. Common grass types in the North Texas area include St. Augustine, Bermuda, Buffalo, and Zoysia. As spring arrives, warm-season grasses begin to awaken from their dormant state, making this an ideal time for fertilization as the growing season begins.
Additionally, spring offers a great opportunity for weed control. Addressing weeds like dandelions, crabgrass, and clovers in spring can prevent them from taking over your beautiful landscape. Proper timing for pre-emergent applications is crucial for successful weed control.
Finding the Best Lawn Fertilizer for Spring
Applying lawn fertilizer in spring can jumpstart growth and provide essential nutrients to warm-season grass as it awakens from dormancy. Early spring is the perfect time to deliver these nutrients, helping maintain a vibrant lawn. March or April is typically the best time for application when grass starts to turn green. Fertilizers usually contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen is particularly important for promoting healthy growth. Conducting a soil test can help determine which nutrients your lawn lacks, allowing for a tailored fertilization approach. Generally, a well-rounded NPK slow-release fertilizer is advised for spring applications. In North Texas, phosphorus is often abundant in the soil, so it's typically unnecessary unless a soil test indicates otherwise.
Be cautious not to over-fertilize your lawn. It’s essential to factor in the type of grass and the size of your lawn when calculating the right amount of nitrogen to apply—generally around 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.
Spring Weed Control
With spring’s arrival, it’s crucial to take a proactive approach to weed control. Weeds like dandelions, clovers, and crabgrass begin to germinate and spread during this time. Crabgrass, in particular, is notorious for overtaking even the most well-maintained lawns due to its rapid growth. To prevent weeds such as crabgrass from establishing, applying pre-emergent herbicides is essential. Timing is key; these products should be applied when soil temperatures hover around 55 degrees for several days, typically from late February through March.
Spring is also the perfect time to initiate a grub worm preventative program. Starting this in early spring allows the treatment to permeate the soil and prepare to combat grubs during their hatching season in late July.
Starting a Fertilization and Weed Control Program
Initiating a fertilization and weed control program can be challenging, especially if your lawn has been neglected. Professional fertilization and weed control services can simplify this process by utilizing the right products and application techniques. In Texas, companies performing these services must be licensed by the Department of Agriculture. Staff must hold an Ornamental and Turf Applicator License to legally apply lawn care products to your lawn and landscape.
