March is the perfect time to prepare your yard for a lush, vibrant spring and summer season. At the McColm Family Farm, this month is all about tackling those essential yard chores to set the stage for healthy growth. Yard cleanup isn’t just about aesthetics—it plays a crucial role in maintaining your lawn’s long term health. Here are some expert tips to make the most of your March yard cleanup.
1. Clear Winter Debris for a Fresh Start
Winter can leave behind a mess of fallen leaves, twigs, and branches. Clearing this debris early allows your lawn to breathe and soak in sunlight. Removing these barriers prevents mold and pests from making a home in your yard.
Pro Tip: Use a rake with flexible tines to gather leaves while being gentle on new grass shoots. For hard-to-reach areas, a leaf blower can save time, but make sure to compost the leaves to use in your garden later!
2. Aerating: The Secret to a Healthy Lawn
Compacted soil from heavy winter rains or snow can suffocate your lawn. Aerating helps by allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the soil. This promotes root growth and a more resilient lawn.
Why It Matters: Aerating is especially important after winter because it reduces soil compaction, helping roots spread and absorb nutrients more efficiently.
Hack: If you don’t have a mechanical aerator, strap on a pair of spiked aerator shoes while you walk across your yard, or a push version, turning a chore into a mini-workout!
3. Fertilize and Feed for Growth
March is an ideal time to apply fertilizer to give your lawn a nutrient boost as it awakens from its winter dormancy. Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide steady nourishment throughout the season. Adding organic compost is another great way to enrich your soil naturally and this is what we do at the farmhouse. I keep this handy compost bin at my sink to collect all the scraps.
Pro Tip: Test your soil before fertilizing to see if you need additional amendments like lime to balance the pH.
4. Overseeding Bare Patches
Winter can leave bare spots in your lawn. Overseeding fills these areas, ensuring your grass grows evenly and thickly, which helps prevent weeds from taking root.
Pro Tip: Choose a seed blend that suits your climate and soil type. After overseeding, keep the soil moist to encourage germination.
5. Weeding: Get Ahead Before They Spread
Weeds love disturbed soil, and they can quickly take over in the spring if left unchecked. Pulling weeds now, before they flower, can save you from a larger infestation later on.
Hack: Lay down a thick layer of mulch in your garden beds to smother weed seeds and keep your soil moist and cool.
6. Prep Your Mowers and Tools
Now is the time to give your mower some attention. Sharpen the blades, check the oil, and ensure everything is in working order. A well-maintained mower cuts grass cleanly, reducing stress on the lawn and promoting healthier growth.
Related blogs: Compost Benefits for a Thriving Lawn
