May is here!  You know what that means – the temps are coming up, grass is greening up, of course those weeds are coming up. Here are a few tips for keeping your lawn in shape this May!

• Change the direction or pattern each time you mow your lawn. Different mowing patterns reduce soil compaction and turf wear from mower wheels.
• Start fertilizing your turf grasses.
• Mulch planting beds to conserve moisture, deter weeds and keep soil cool.
• Once plants have leafed out, make a final pruning to remove winter damage. Always cut the limb or shoot back to live wood. If the damage to the plant is severe, you might consider replacing it.
• Prune spring blooming shrubs such as forsythia and lilac after they finish flowering.
• Prune climbing roses after their blooms fade.
• Snip off dried foliage of early spring bulbs, such as daffodils, and the faded flower stalks of irises.
• Check roses, ornamentals and vegetables for aphids and powdery mildew.
• Check roses for black spot and apply fungicide as necessary according to label directions.
• Watch for bagworms on junipers and other conifers, treat as required.
• Plant your summer annuals, such as petunias, marigolds, salvia and impatiens.

If you would like our help keeping your lawn in shape or to begin your next landscape project, schedule a phone consultation!