Ensure that your property’s landscaping can survive the upcoming spring and summer months with the following step-by-step guide.

1. Aerate

Aeration, a process of perforating soil with small holes, allows maximum levels of water and air to reach the grass’ roots and is a critical step in landscaping maintenance. This creates a stronger, healthier lawn that can withstand the elements – like the dry, hot conditions of Summer. Depending on how much traffic your property’s turf gets, aeration may be needed more frequently. For light traffic with no other issues, aeration is recommended once or twice a year. Your landscaping maintenance company should be able to assess the situation and provide aeration when and where needed.

2. Fertilize

Your maintenance company should be fertilizing your property’s lawn year-round. If grass is getting the proper nutrients it needs throughout the year, it should be in optimal condition going into Spring and Summer. Now is a good time for your landscapers to determine what type of fertilizer is needed and how frequently the application should be.

3. Eliminate Weeds

It may be a good time for your maintenance company to apply a weed treatment, like pre-emergent herbicides. This will prevent weed growth in the upcoming months, keeping your landscaping beautiful and lower maintenance.

4. Water

Efficient irrigation is essential to successful landscaping and especially important in Southern California. Your maintenance company should apply effective and sustainable water management solutions year-round to conserve water while maintaining optimal water usage levels. Irrigation systems should be inspected regularly to ensure broken or leaking parts are repaired or replaced and to ensure accurate irrigation coverage. Other water management solutions include drought-tolerant plant palettes, watering schedules, and rain sensors.

5. Maintenance

Early Spring is a great time to revive existing plants, trees, and shrubs. Your maintenance company may recommend “hard pruning”, depending on the plant type. This rejuvenates the plants, allowing for new, healthy growth and less pruning throughout the remainder of the year. Additionally, thinning out deciduous trees along with a deep watering will encourage bloom and leaf development.

6. Renovate

This is a great time of the year to consider making landscape renovations and enhancements. If your maintenance company is qualified to provide this service, contact your account representative to get started. Renovations are a great way to improve the overall appearance and functionality of your property while reducing long-term costs.