As winter fades away and spring approaches, it’s time to focus on spring lawn recovery. In the Fenton, MO area, you can expect green grass to start growing again in March as the sunshine returns and soil temperatures rise to around 40 degrees. Even those brown blades of grass you see now may recover naturally, transforming into a lush green lawn with the proper care.
Why Your Lawn Turns Brown in Winter
Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can cause grass to go dormant, resulting in brown or yellow patches. This dormancy is normal and not necessarily a sign of permanent damage. In many cases, your lawn will begin to green up on its own with the arrival of warmer temperatures and spring fertilization.
Areas That Need Extra Attention: The Curb Strip
One area that often struggles to recover is the “curb strip,” the section of grass between the sidewalk and the street. This part of your lawn endures more challenges than you might think:
Heavy Foot and Vehicle Traffic: Pedestrians and parked cars compact the soil, making it harder for grass roots to thrive.
Lack of Water: The curb strip typically receives less water than other areas of your lawn.
Heat Stress: Sandwiched between the sidewalk and the street, this area bakes under the sun, especially during hot spring and summer days.
Salt Damage: Road salt used during winter can accumulate here, further stressing the grass and hindering its recovery.
Common Mistakes That Cause Lawn Damage
You might be causing additional damage without realizing it. Shoveling snow and road slush from your driveway onto your lawn can deposit harmful salts and debris onto the grass. A better practice is to push snow into the street (where allowed) to prevent unnecessary harm to your lawn.
Steps to Help Your Lawn Recover This Spring
1. Spring Fertilization: A well-timed application of fertilizer can jump-start grass growth and replenish nutrients lost during winter.
2. Water Wisely: Ensure your lawn receives about an inch of water per week, especially if rainfall is scarce.
3. Aerate Compact Soil: Aerating your lawn, particularly in high-traffic areas like the curb strip, can improve soil health and root growth.
4. Overseed Bare Spots: For areas that aren’t recovering, overseeding can help new grass establish and fill in thin patches.
5. Minimize Traffic: Limit foot and vehicle traffic on vulnerable sections of your lawn during the recovery process.
Need Professional Lawn Care Assistance?
Spring is the perfect time to give your lawn the attention it deserves. At Lawn Doctor of Fenton, MO, we specialize in helping homeowners achieve vibrant, healthy lawns. Whether you need help with fertilization, aeration, or repairing damaged areas like the curb strip, we’re here to assist you.
Have questions or need a quote? Call us today or visit us online at Lawn Doctor of Fenton, MO to learn more about our spring lawn care services.
