Seasonal Care Schedule
January
1 tasks
Lawn may still be green. Mow if growth continues.
February
2 tasks
Apply pre-emergent when forsythia blooms (soil ~55°F).
Mow if grass is actively growing.
March
3 tasks
Begin regular mowing at 3″.
Light nitrogen app (0.5 lb N/1,000 sq ft).
Aerate cool-season lawns before spring growth.
April
3 tasks
Weekly mowing at 3–3.5″.
Begin watering if rainfall is below 1″/week.
Spot-treat any breakthrough weeds.
May
3 tasks
Mow every 5–7 days. Mulch clippings.
1–1.25 inches per week.
Slow-release fertilizer application.
June
3 tasks
Raise mower to 3.5–4″ as heat increases.
1.5 inches per week in heat.
Control summer weeds like crabgrass.
July
2 tasks
Mow high (4″). Reduce frequency if drought stress.
Deep water early morning. 1.5″+ per week.
August
3 tasks
Aerate late August for fall seeding.
Resume normal mowing as temps drop.
Continue deep watering.
September
4 tasks
Best overseeding window. Soil temps 55–65°F.
Most important fertilizer app (1 lb N/1,000 sq ft).
Keep seed moist with frequent light watering.
Continue at 3″.
October
3 tasks
Last fertilizer for the year.
Lower cut to 2.5″ over final mows.
Apply broadleaf herbicide on days above 60°F.
November
2 tasks
Last mow at 2.5″. Clean up leaves.
Winterize irrigation. Clean and store equipment.
December
1 tasks
Minimal activity. Plan for spring.