Your ultimate guide to seasonal lawn care has just been made so much easier! Whether you’re a dedicated lawn enthusiast or just beginning your lawn care journey, these month-by-month tips will ensure your lawn remains healthy and vibrant year-round.
January – March Winter Prep and Maintenance
January – March: Winter Prep and Maintenance
- Vancouver Island: Take advantage of the milder winter weather to aerate your lawn and address any compaction issues. Consider overseeding with cool-season grasses to fill in sparse areas.
- Lower Mainland: Protect tender plants from frost by covering them with frost cloth or mulch. Prune dormant trees and shrubs to encourage healthy spring growth.
- Okanagan: Clear snow and ice from pathways and driveways to prevent slips and falls. Consider applying dormant oil spray to fruit trees to control overwintering pests.
April – June Spring Growth and Nourishment
April – June: Spring Growth and Nourishment
- Vancouver Island: Begin mowing regularly as the weather warms up, but avoid cutting too short to maintain moisture. Apply a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and address any moss or thatch buildup.
- Lower Mainland: Keep an eye on soil moisture levels and adjust watering frequency accordingly. Combat early-season weeds with targeted treatments or manual removal.
- Okanagan: Start planting warm-season grasses for a lush summer lawn. Prune flowering shrubs after blooming to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
July – September Summer Maintenance and Hydration
July – September: Summer Maintenance and Hydration
- Vancouver Island: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance. Adjust mower blade height to provide shade and reduce moisture loss.
- Lower Mainland: Implement pest management strategies to tackle lawn pests like chafer beetles. Consider installing rain barrels to collect water for irrigation.
- Okanagan: Keep your lawn well-hydrated during the heat, watching for signs of drought stress like wilting. Apply a summer fertilizer to replenish nutrients lost through mowing and watering.
October – December Fall Renewal and Prep
October – December: Fall Renewal and Prep
- Vancouver Island: Clear leaves and debris from your lawn to prevent suffocation and disease. Aerate and overseed to promote healthy growth.
- Lower Mainland: Fertilize with a high-phosphorus mix to support root development and winter hardiness. Plant spring bulbs for a colorful display next year.
- Okanagan: Reduce watering as temperatures drop, but monitor moisture levels to prevent dehydration. Apply a winterizing fertilizer to fortify your lawn against the cold.
By following this month-by-month, you’ll be equipped to care for your lawn with expertise and confidence. Here’s to a year of healthy, vibrant grass!
