As the chilly grip of winter begins to loosen its hold and signs of spring emerge, homeowners in Wisconsin start turning their attention to their lawns. Transitioning from the dormancy of winter to the active growth of spring requires careful attention and specific lawn care practices tailored to the unique climate of Wisconsin. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips for ensuring your lawn emerges healthy and vibrant as the warmer months approach.

1. Snow Mold Prevention:
In Wisconsin, where snowfall is common during the winter months, one of the primary concerns for lawn care enthusiasts is snow mold. Snow mold is a fungal disease that thrives beneath snow cover, particularly in areas where the snowpack persists for an extended period. To prevent snow mold, it’s crucial to remove any accumulated snow from the lawn as soon as possible. Additionally, avoid walking on or driving over snow-covered grass, as this can exacerbate the problem.

2. Raking and Debris Removal:
Once the snow has melted and the ground begins to thaw, it’s time to start preparing your lawn for spring growth. Begin by thoroughly raking the lawn to remove any debris, dead grass, or leaves that have accumulated over the winter months. Raking not only improves the appearance of the lawn but also allows for better air circulation and reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

3. Early Season Mowing:
As soon as the grass starts to green up and grow, it’s time to break out the lawn mower. However, resist the temptation to mow too short during the early spring months. Instead, set your mower blades to a higher setting to avoid stressing the grass and allow it to establish strong roots. Aim to remove no more than one-third of the grass’s height with each mowing session.

4. Fertilization and Weed Control:
Early spring is an ideal time to apply a balanced fertilizer to your lawn to promote healthy growth and green-up. Choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for spring application, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application rates. Additionally, consider applying a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent the germination of weed seeds before they have a chance to take hold in your lawn.

5. Overseeding and Patch Repair:
If your lawn has bare patches or thin areas, early spring is the perfect time to overseed and repair these areas. Choose a high-quality grass seed blend that is well-suited to Wisconsin’s climate and soil conditions. Prepare the bare patches by loosening the soil and spreading a thin layer of compost before overseeding. Keep the newly seeded areas consistently moist until the grass seedlings have established themselves.

6. Proper Watering Practices:
While spring rains may provide some moisture for your lawn, it’s essential to supplement with additional watering as needed. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering, as it encourages the grass roots to grow deeper into the soil. Water your lawn early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

By following these lawn care tips tailored specifically for our state’s transition from winter to spring, you can ensure that your lawn emerges from dormancy healthy, vibrant, and ready to thrive throughout the growing season. With proper care and attention, you’ll enjoy a lush, green lawn that enhances the beauty of your outdoor space for months to come.

Thinking about hiring a professional to help with your lawn care needs this year? Friske Lawn Care would be happy to help! Give us a call at 608-445-5883 or shoot us an email at [email protected].

As the Midwest transitions from winter to spring, homeowners eagerly await the return of lush, green lawns and vibrant landscapes. To achieve a beautiful and healthy lawn throughout the year, it’s essential to have a well-structured lawn care schedule. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a sample lawn care calendar starting in February, outlining seasonal tasks and maintenance tips to keep your lawn in top shape throughout the year.

February: Preparing for Spring

February may still feel like winter, but it’s the perfect time to start preparing your lawn for the upcoming growing season. Here’s what you should focus on:

1. Snow Removal: Continue to remove snow from your driveway and walkways to prevent compacted snow and ice from damaging your grass.
2. Winter Lawn Inspection: Assess your lawn for any signs of snow mold, ice damage, or animal tracks. Make a note of any problem areas that may need attention in the spring.
3. Sharpen Lawnmower Blades: Take this opportunity to sharpen your lawnmower blades, ensuring a clean cut when it’s time to mow.

March: Early Spring Maintenance

As the weather begins to warm up, it’s time to kick-start your lawn care routine:

1. Raking and Thatching: Remove any remaining leaves and thatch from your lawn to promote healthy grass growth.
2. Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine if your lawn requires any specific amendments, such as lime or fertilizer, to balance the pH and nutrient levels.
3. First Mowing: Depending on the weather, you may need to give your lawn its first trim of the year. Ensure your lawnmower blade is set at the appropriate height.

April: Spring Awakening

April is when your lawn truly comes to life. Here’s what you should do:

1. Fertilization: Apply a spring fertilizer to promote vigorous growth. Look for a balanced fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
2. Weed Control: Begin your weed control program by applying pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weed seeds from germinating.
3. Overseeding: If your lawn has thin areas, consider overseeding with grass seed suitable for your region.

May: Embrace the Growing Season

As temperatures rise, your lawn will require more attention:

1. Regular Mowing: Increase your mowing frequency to maintain the recommended grass height for your turf type.
2. Watering: Ensure your lawn receives about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.
3. Weed Management: Continue to monitor and address any weed issues as they arise.

June – August: Summer Maintenance

Summer is the peak growing season for your lawn:

1. Mowing: Keep up with regular mowing and avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
2. Watering: Adjust your watering schedule based on weather conditions, aiming for deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth.
3. Pest Control: Watch for signs of pests and address any issues promptly. Consider applying insecticides as needed.

September – October: Fall Preparations

As temperatures begin to cool down, shift your focus to fall lawn care:

1. Aeration: Consider core aeration to improve soil compaction and allow nutrients and oxygen to reach the roots.
2. Overseeding: Early fall is an ideal time for overseeding to thicken your lawn.
3. Fertilization: Apply a fall fertilizer to support root growth and overall lawn health.

November – December: Winterization

As winter approaches, take steps to protect your lawn:

1. Leaf Removal: Ensure your lawn is clear of leaves before snowfall to prevent suffocation and mold growth.
2. Winterizing Equipment: Properly store and winterize your lawnmower and other lawn care equipment.
3. Snow Removal: Keep your driveway and walkways clear of snow to prevent ice damage to your grass.

By following this lawn care schedule tailored to the Midwest, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a beautiful and healthy lawn throughout the year. Remember that local climate conditions can vary, so adapt your schedule as needed, and always consult with a lawn care professional for personalized guidance. With proper care and attention, your Midwest lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood.

If you need getting your lawn prepped from season to season, Friske Lawn Care would be happy to help! Give us a call at 608-445-5883 or shoot us an email at [email protected].

As the chill of winter sets in, pet owners face the dual challenge of keeping their lawns healthy while ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for their furry companions. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate winter lawn care as a pet owner.

1. Choose Pet-Friendly De-icing Products

Winter often brings ice and snow, requiring the use of de-icing products. However, many common de-icers can be harmful to pets, causing irritation to their paws or issues if ingested. Opt for pet-safe de-icers, which are typically made from urea or magnesium chloride, and avoid products with calcium chloride or sodium chloride.

2. Regular Paw Cleaning

After outdoor play, always wipe your pet’s paws to remove any ice, snow, or de-icing chemicals. This practice not only protects their paws but also prevents them from licking off any toxic substances they might have stepped on.

3. Maintain Your Lawn Regularly

Even in winter, it’s important to keep your lawn mowed and leaves raked. A well-maintained lawn prevents the accumulation of damp leaves which can harbor mold and other harmful agents. Shorter grass also deters rodents and other pests that might be a danger to your pets.

4. Fence and Monitor Your Lawn

To keep your pets safe, ensure that your lawn is securely fenced. This barrier not only keeps your pets from wandering off but also prevents wild animals from entering your yard. Regularly inspect the fence for any damage or gaps.

5. Avoid Toxic Plants and Chemicals

Some common winter plants, like holly and mistletoe, are toxic to pets. Ensure your garden is free of these and other harmful plants. Also, avoid using chemical-based fertilizers or pesticides on your lawn, as these can be hazardous to pets.

6. Provide Shelter and Warmth

If your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure they have a warm, dry place to take shelter. A good dog house, insulated and elevated from the ground, can provide the necessary refuge from the cold.

7. Monitor Outdoor Time

During extreme cold spells, limit the amount of time your pet spends outside. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.

8. Stay Vigilant About Hydration

Ensure your pet has access to fresh, unfrozen water. Pets can dehydrate just as easily in winter as they can in summer.

9. Use Safe Lawn Enhancements

Consider using pet-friendly lawn enhancers like mulch or peat moss. These materials are safe for pets and can help protect your lawn from the harsh winter elements.

10. Create Designated Bathroom Areas

To maintain lawn health, train your pet to use a specific area of the yard for bathroom breaks. This practice helps prevent lawn burn from pet urine and makes cleanup easier.

As the vibrant colors of autumn foliage begin to fade and the chill in the air becomes more pronounced, it’s a clear sign that fall has arrived. While many of us enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons, it’s also a time to start thinking about the impending winter and the impact it will have on our lawns and gardens. To ensure that your lawn remains healthy and vibrant come springtime, it’s essential to tackle a few key tasks during the fall. Here’s a comprehensive fall lawn cleanup checklist to help you prepare your yard for the colder months ahead.

1. Raking Leaves:

One of the most iconic autumn activities is raking leaves, but it’s not just for aesthetics. A thick layer of fallen leaves can smother your grass, preventing sunlight and air from reaching the soil. This can lead to mold and disease. So, grab your rake and start clearing your yard of leaves regularly throughout the fall.

2. Aerate Your Lawn:

Aeration is the process of perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grassroots. Fall is an excellent time to aerate your lawn, as it helps the soil breathe and encourages strong root growth before winter. You can rent a lawn aerator or hire a professional to do the job for you.

3. Mow and Fertilize:

Before the last mowing of the season, lower your lawn mower’s blade to give your grass a shorter cut. This will help prevent matting and disease development. Additionally, apply a fall fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen to provide your lawn with essential nutrients for winter resilience.

4. Remove Weeds and Debris:

Fall is an excellent time to address any lingering weeds in your lawn. Pull them out by hand or use an appropriate weed killer. Also, clear away any fallen branches, dead plants, or debris that may have accumulated in your yard during the summer.

5. Prune Trees and Shrubs:

Trimming your trees and shrubs in the fall helps remove dead or diseased branches and encourages healthy growth. Be sure to consult with a local arborist or gardening expert for the best time and techniques for pruning specific plants.

6. Seed and Overseed:

If your lawn has bare patches or thin areas, fall is the ideal time for seeding and overseeding. The cooler temperatures and ample moisture in the soil make it easier for grass seeds to germinate and establish themselves before winter.

7. Drain Irrigation Systems:

To prevent freezing and damage to your irrigation system, it’s crucial to drain the water from pipes and hoses before the first frost arrives. Disconnect hoses and store them indoors, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for winterizing your sprinkler system.

8. Clean Gutters:

Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow and damage to your home’s foundation. Clean out leaves and debris from your gutters to ensure proper drainage during autumn rains and winter thaws.

9. Cover Garden Beds:

If you have garden beds or delicate plants that can’t withstand the winter cold, cover them with a layer of mulch or burlap to insulate them from freezing temperatures and frost. This extra protection will help your plants survive the winter months.

10. Store Garden Equipment:

Once you’ve completed your fall lawn cleanup tasks, clean and store your gardening tools and equipment properly. This will help extend their lifespan and ensure they are ready to use in the spring.

11. Compost Leaves and Yard Waste:

Don’t let all those fallen leaves go to waste! Instead of discarding them in the trash, create a compost pile or use a leaf mulcher to turn them into nutrient-rich mulch for your garden.

12. Plan for Spring:

Lastly, take some time to plan for the upcoming spring season. Consider what changes or improvements you’d like to make in your yard, whether it’s adding new plants, redesigning garden beds, or starting a new landscaping project.

By checking off the items on our fall lawn cleanup checklist, you’ll not only keep your yard looking tidy but also ensure that your lawn and garden are in the best possible shape to withstand the challenges of winter. With a little effort now, you’ll be rewarded with a healthy and thriving outdoor space when spring arrives. So, grab your gardening gloves, put on your cozy sweater, and embrace the beauty of fall while taking care of your lawn.

If you’re in need of some help with your yard this fall, reach out to Friske Lawn Care for a fall cleanup quote!