**Lawn and Landscape Maintenance for Late February and Early March in Central Florida**
As February comes to a close and March approaches, your lawn and landscape require thoughtful care to prepare for the active growing season. This is an ideal time to focus on pruning, fertilizing, and preparing your landscape for Central Florida’s spring weather. Here’s a detailed guide for maintaining grass, shrubs, plant beds, small trees, and palms during this transitional period.
### **Grass Care**
1. **Weed Control:**
Late February is the last opportunity to apply pre-emergent herbicides to prevent spring weeds. Focus on crabgrass, dollarweed, and other common invaders in Central Florida. Make sure the product is labeled for your grass type, whether St. Augustine, Bermuda, or Zoysia.
2. **Mowing Preparation:**
While grass growth may still be slow, inspect and maintain your mower. Sharpen blades to ensure a clean cut, which prevents stress and disease.
3. **Fertilization:**
Avoid fertilizing until the grass actively grows, which typically begins in March. When applying fertilizer, use a slow-release nitrogen formula suitable for Florida’s sandy soils. This ensures nutrients are available as grass wakes up.
4. **Irrigation Adjustments:**
Central Florida lawns require about ½ to ¾ inch of water weekly during this period. Monitor rainfall and adjust sprinklers to avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal issues.
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### **Shrub Maintenance**
1. **Pruning:**
Late February is perfect for pruning shrubs to encourage healthy new growth. Remove dead, diseased, or overgrown branches. For flowering shrubs, wait until after blooming to prune, especially for azaleas and camellias.
2. **Pest Inspection:**
Look for early signs of pest infestations, such as scale or aphids. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils to manage small outbreaks.
3. **Mulching:**
Add or refresh mulch around shrubs to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Maintain a 2-3 inch layer but keep mulch away from the shrub’s base to prevent rot.
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### **Plant Bed Care**
1. **Debris Cleanup:**
Remove fallen leaves, weeds, and dead plants from beds to reduce pests and improve appearance.
2. **Soil Preparation:**
Loosen soil and incorporate organic compost to boost fertility ahead of spring planting. Test the soil’s pH and nutrient levels for optimal results.
3. **Replanting and Mulching:**
Late February is a good time to add cool-season flowers like pansies or prepare for spring annuals such as marigolds and petunias. Add fresh mulch to suppress weeds and conserve water.
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### **Small Trees**
1. **Crepe Myrtle Pruning:**
Late February is the ideal time to prune crepe myrtles in Central Florida. Avoid over-pruning, often called “crepe murder.” Instead, focus on removing dead or crossing branches to maintain shape and health.
2. **Structural Pruning:**
For young trees, remove any competing central leaders or crossing branches. This ensures strong growth and stability.
3. **Fertilization:**
If fertilizing small trees, choose a balanced fertilizer with slow-release nitrogen to support gradual growth during the coming months.
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### **Palm Tree Care**
1. **Frond Removal:**
Remove dead or brown fronds in late February. Avoid over-pruning as it can weaken palms and make them susceptible to pests.
2. **Pest Control:**
Watch for signs of palm weevil or scale infestations. Use appropriate treatments if needed, as these pests can damage palms rapidly.
3. **Fertilization:**
Palms thrive with specialized fertilizers containing magnesium, potassium, and other micronutrients. Apply a palm-specific fertilizer in March to promote healthy fronds.
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### **March: Prepping for the Growing Season**
As March unfolds, Central Florida’s lawns and landscapes enter a period of rapid growth. Transition from winter maintenance to active care, including:
– **Regular Mowing:** Mow as soon as grass begins growing, maintaining an appropriate height for your grass type.
– **Fertilization:** Apply fertilizer for grass and shrubs to kickstart growth.
– **Planting:** Begin planting warm-season flowers, vegetables, or shrubs to enjoy throughout spring.
– **Irrigation Monitoring:** Adjust watering schedules based on rainfall, keeping moisture consistent as temperatures rise.
By addressing these tasks in late February and early March, your lawn and landscape will be ready to thrive during the spring growing season. Regular care and attention not only enhance curb appeal but also create a healthy, sustainable environment for years to come.
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Let me know if you’d like adjustments or additional details!
