Spring is a vibrant time in Central Florida, with lawns and landscapes coming to life. As temperatures rise and the growing season kicks into gear, it’s essential to provide your grass, shrubs, and plant beds with the care they need to thrive. Here are some expert tips to keep your outdoor spaces healthy and beautiful during April and May.
1. Lawn Care Tips
Mowing:
Set your mower blades to the correct height for your grass type. For example, St. Augustine grass thrives with a mowing height of 3.5 to 4 inches, while Bermuda grass prefers a shorter height of 1 to 2 inches.
Mow regularly, ensuring no more than one-third of the grass blade is removed in a single mowing.
Watering:
Central Florida typically experiences dry weather in April and the beginning of May, so ensure your lawn receives about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilizing:
Apply a slow-release fertilizer designed for your grass type. April is a great time to fertilize as the soil warms up, promoting healthy growth.
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to nutrient runoff and damage to waterways.
Weed Control:
Use a pre-emergent herbicide in early April to prevent weeds like crabgrass from taking hold.
Spot-treat existing weeds with a post-emergent herbicide or manually remove them to keep your lawn weed-free.
2. Shrub Maintenance
Pruning:
Prune spring-flowering shrubs like azaleas and gardenias after their blooms fade. This helps shape the plants and encourages healthy growth.
Remove any dead or damaged branches to improve air circulation and reduce pest issues.
Fertilizing:
Use a balanced fertilizer specifically designed for shrubs to provide essential nutrients. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to avoid over-fertilization.
Mulching:
Refresh the mulch around shrubs to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Aim for a 2- to 3-inch layer, but keep it away from the base of the shrubs to prevent rot.
3. Plant Bed Care
Planting:
April and May are ideal months for planting annuals and perennials that thrive in warm weather, such as marigolds, pentas, and salvia.
Incorporate organic matter into the soil to improve its structure and nutrient content.
Weed Control:
Use a natural weed suppressant like PREEN Garden Weed Preventer to keep plant beds weed-free. Apply as directed, and reapply every 4 to 6 weeks for optimal results.
Watering:
Keep plant beds consistently moist but not waterlogged. Drip irrigation systems work well for targeted watering.
4. Weather Considerations
Rainfall:
While April is generally dry, May often brings increased rainfall. Monitor your irrigation system and adjust schedules to avoid overwatering.
Heat:
As temperatures climb, ensure your plants have adequate mulch to protect their roots and reduce water evaporation.
Pests:
Watch for common spring pests like chinch bugs in lawns and aphids on shrubs and flowers. Use targeted treatments to address infestations early.
By following these tips, you can ensure your Central Florida lawn and landscape stay lush and vibrant through the spring months. For more advice or professional lawn care services, don’t hesitate to contact us. Let’s make your yard the envy of the neighborhood!
