As winter fades and temperatures rise, Jacksonville homeowners must prepare their lawns for spring growth. A well-maintained lawn boosts curb appeal, prevents weeds, and creates a lush, green space for outdoor enjoyment. But with Florida’s warm, humid climate, proper care—including fertilization, pest control, and mowing—is essential to keeping your grass healthy.
Follow this spring lawn care checklist to ensure a thriving, pest-free yard all season long!
1. Assess Lawn Health & Clear Debris
Start by inspecting your lawn for bare patches, weeds, or signs of pests like chinch bugs and grubs. Clearing leaves, sticks, and thatch (a layer of dead grass and roots) will improve airflow and allow sunlight to reach the soil. If thatch is more than half an inch thick, use a dethatching rake to prevent suffocating your grass.
2. Fertilize for Strong Spring Growth
Applying the right fertilizer gives your lawn the nutrients it needs after winter dormancy. Use a slow-release fertilizer suited to your grass type—St. Augustine, Bermuda, or Zoysia. Fertilize in late March to early April, when soil temperatures reach around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can make grass more vulnerable to pests and disease.
3. Control Lawn Pests Early
Jacksonville’s warm climate allows pests to emerge early in the season. Common spring lawn pests include:
- Chinch Bugs – Cause yellow patches by sucking moisture from grass.
- Grubs – Feed on roots, leading to dead spots.
- Sod Webworms – Chew on grass blades, creating brown patches.
Prevent infestations by applying targeted pest control treatments and avoiding overwatering, which attracts chinch bugs. If damage is already visible, professional lawn pest control may be necessary.
4. Prevent Weeds Before They Spread
Weeds can quickly take over if not controlled early. Use pre-emergent herbicides in early spring to stop weeds before they sprout. For existing weeds, apply post-emergent herbicides or hand-pull smaller infestations. Keeping your lawn thick and healthy through proper mowing and fertilization also helps crowd out weeds.
5. Water Wisely & Mow Properly
Overwatering leads to shallow roots and increases the risk of disease and pests. Water deeply but infrequently (one to one and a half inches per week) to promote strong roots.
Mow with sharp blades and follow the one-third rule—never cut more than one-third of the grass height at a time. For St. Augustine grass, mow at 3.5 to 4 inches to provide shade and prevent weed growth.
6. Consider Professional Lawn Care Services
Maintaining a healthy lawn requires time, effort, and the right treatments. If you want a lush, pest-free lawn without the hassle, Royal Pest Services provides expert Jacksonville lawn pest control and fertilization.
- Customized lawn care plans tailored to Jacksonville’s climate.
- Safe, effective treatments for weeds, pests, and diseases.
- Year-round lawn health monitoring and maintenance.
Get Your Lawn Spring-Ready Today
A beautiful lawn starts with the right care. By following this spring lawn care checklist, you can enjoy a healthy, vibrant yard all season long. Need help with fertilization or pest control? Contact Royal Pest Services today for expert lawn care solutions in Jacksonville.