Spring is the perfect time to get outside and give your yard some TLC. The warmer weather motivates us to tackle all those outdoor chores we’ve been avoiding during the winter months. A good spring cleaning prepares your yard for the months ahead, ensuring it stays beautiful, healthy, and functional all season long.
Tackling everything at once can feel daunting. That’s why having a spring yard cleanup checklist is so helpful. It allows you to break the big job down into manageable pieces. Below we’ve created the ultimate list of tasks to help whip your yard back into shape. Let’s get started!
Lawn Care
A lush green lawn is one of the hallmarks of a well-maintained yard. Follow these tips to get your grass looking its best.
Remove debris
Start by clearing away any fallen branches, leaves, or other debris that have collected on the lawn over the winter. This allows sunlight to reach the grass and promotes growth.
Rake thoroughly
Use a stiff rake to remove matted grass and thatch buildup. This allows air and water to penetrate to the soil beneath.
Repair bare patches
Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist
Re-seed any bald or thin spots to help your lawn grow in evenly. Opt for a seed blend suited to your climate and lawn conditions.
Aerate compacted soil
Use an aerator machine to punch holes in compacted soils. This enables better drainage and oxygen circulation to the grass roots.
Apply pre-emergent herbicide
Prevent weeds from invading by applying pre-emergent weed killer. Tackle broadleaf and crabgrass before they have a chance to establish.
Fertilize
Choose a balanced turf fertilizer and apply at the recommended rate. This fuels healthy growth and a vibrant green color.
Check mower blades
Sharp mower blades make clean cuts, preventing frayed leaf tips which invite disease. Replace worn blades for the healthiest grass.
Garden Beds
Spring is an exciting time in the garden! Follow these tips to refresh the flower and vegetable beds.
Remove weeds
Eliminate weeds around plants as they emerge by hand pulling or using an eco-friendly herbicide. Address them early before they go to seed.
Prune overgrown plants
Remove dead stems and shape overgrown plants. But research first since some should only be pruned at certain times.
Divide perennials
Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist
Rejuvenate overcrowded perennials by digging up clumps and replanting divisions. Discard the crowded center of the plant.
Cut back ornamental grasses
Use hedge shears to cut back ornamental grasses to a few inches above ground level before new growth emerges.
Rake mulch
Eliminate weeds and refresh the appearance of garden beds by raking the old mulch. Reapply a 2-3 inch layer once beds are clean.
Test soil
Check the pH level with an at-home test kit and amend the soil as needed. Most plants thrive best in slightly acidic soil.
Fertilize plants
Give plants a boost by working organic compost or a balanced fertilizer into the top few inches of soil around each.
Plant new additions
Spring is the perfect time to introduce new annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees before the heat of summer sets in.
Trees and Shrubs
Proper care of woody plants prevents damage and encourages lush growth. Here’s what your trees and shrubs need this spring.
Prune dead wood
Remove dead or damaged branches using sharp pruning shears and proper cutting technique. Avoid leaving stubs behind.
Shape overgrown plants
Selectively trim and thin overgrown trees and shrubs to improve their shape and form. Take care not to remove too much.
Check for pests and diseases
Inspect bark, leaves and roots. Address any issues with organic treatments as needed to maintain plant health.
Clear debris from beneath
Rake away fallen leaves and debris to eliminate hiding places for pests like mice and fungal diseases.
Apply mulch
Maintain moisture and discourage weeds by applying 2-4 inches of organic mulch around trees and shrubs, leaving space near the trunk.
Deep water young trees
Young and newly planted trees need extra care. Deep water weekly if rain is lacking to establish an extensive root system.
Stake trees for support
Stake young trees and any with thin trunks using flexible ties. Avoid using rigid stakes that can damage bark.
Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist
Fertilize if needed
Have a soil test done to determine if fertilization is warranted. Apply only as needed according to test recommendations.
Hardscapes
Spring showers also reveal problem areas in driveways, patios, retaining walls and other hardscaping. Address these issues now to maintain safety and aesthetic.
Wash away debris
Use a hose or power washer to thoroughly clean salt, debris and dirt from driveways, walkways, patios, and retaining walls. Let areas dry completely before sealing or staining.
Patch cracked asphalt
Fill cracks in asphalt driveways with an asphalt patch compound. Carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Seal concrete surfaces
Extend the life of concrete surfaces like driveways and walkways by applying a fresh sealant. Select a silicone-based sealer for best durability.
Repair retaining walls
Inspect the retaining walls and mortar joints for signs of crumbling or shifting. Make repairs before problems worsen.
Power wash wood decks
Blast away dirt, mildew and old finishes from wood decks using a pressure washer. Let the wood dry fully before re-staining.
Re-stain outdoor wood
Refresh the appearance of fences, decks, benches and garden structures with a fresh application of exterior wood stain in the color of your choice.
Patch gravel paths
Replenish the gravel on paths and driveways where the stone has eroded. Tamp down firmly and add landscape edging to help retain the gravel long-term.
Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist
Adjust drainage
Improve drainage in areas that puddle by re-grading the surface or adding crushed gravel and landscape drainage pipes.
Seasonal Maintenance
Get your outdoor living spaces ready for warm weather entertaining with these spring cleaning tasks.
Wash outdoor furniture
Hose down patio and deck furniture then let dry fully in the sun. This removes dirt, mold, and mildew that accumulated over the winter months.
Repair damaged furniture
Fix loose joints, damaged slings, or broken pieces on outdoor furniture. Replace items that are beyond repair.
Polish metal features
Make metal furniture, fixtures and accessories shine by cleaning and polishing thoroughly. Use a metal polish formulated for outdoor use.
Fluff up cushions
Plump up outdoor seat cushions by massaging them vigorously. Allow them to air dry fully before putting cushion covers back on.
Treat wood furniture
Protect outdoor wood furniture from moisture and UV damage by applying a fresh coat of wood protectant/sealant.
Repair damaged screens
Replace torn or damaged screens on windows and doors. Use caution when removing old screens to avoid damaging the frames.
Install screening
Install new screening around outdoor seating areas, porches, and patios. This keeps annoying insects away so you can enjoy the outdoors.
Check play equipment
Inspect playsets, swings, slides, and climbing structures for damage, loose joints, splinters, etc. Make all needed repairs for safety.
Clean grills and prep areas
Scrub down built-in grills, sinks, counters and prep surfaces on outdoor kitchens. Remove grease buildup and food debris thoroughly.
Deep clean fire pits
Remove ash, debris, and accumulated gunk by pressure washing fire pits and chimneys or having them professionally cleaned.
Pest Prevention
Take steps now to ward off pests before they become a nuisance in your landscape.
Apply grub control
Protect lawn roots from damage by applying a grub prevention product formulated for your region in early spring according to label directions.
Hang traps for beetles
Deter Japanese beetles and other damaging pests by hanging traps around susceptible plants. Use pheromone traps if allowed in your state.
Apply dormant oil spray
Smother overwintering insects like mites, aphids, and scale by spraying fruit trees and ornamentals with horticultural oil before the buds open.
Set out slug traps
Create homemade traps using small containers filled with cheap beer to attract and drown slugs and snails that feed on tender new growth.
Apply animal repellents
Discourage rabbits, deer and other wildlife from nibbling your plants by spraying repellents made with putrescent egg solids around the perimeter of beds. Reapply after rain.
Seal entry points
Block pests like rodents from taking up residence under your deck or in the garden shed. Seal up access holes in foundations and walls.
Install door sweeps
Add door sweeps or brush-style barriers to the bottom of exterior doors to seal the gap between the door and threshold.
Clean up debris
Eliminate hiding spots for pests by keeping the yard free of piles of debris. Follow proper sanitation practices when disposing of yard waste.
Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist
Seasonal Storage
Part of spring cleaning involves retrieving warm weather items from storage and stowing away the cold weather gear.
Get out summer equipment
Pull out the lawn mower, gardening tools, patio furniture covers, sprinklers, and other seasonal equipment. Inspect and clean each item before using.
Stow away winter gear
Properly clean and store shovels, snow blowers, deicer materials, salt buckets, and winter weather gear until next season. Follow manufacturer instructions for off-season maintenance where needed.
Switch out clothing and linens
Pack up heavy winter blankets, flannel sheets, and cold weather clothing. Unpack lighter bedding, summer clothes and rain gear. Launder all items before changing closets over.
Remove fireplace ashes
Scoop out and discard ashes from wood burning fireplaces. Have the chimney professionally cleaned before laying the first fire next fall.
Schedule AC maintenance
Ensure air conditioning units are ready for summer by replacing filters and having a professional perform seasonal maintenance. Address any issues now before the AC is in heavy use.
Flip mattresses
Extend the comfort and support of mattresses by flipping and rotating them. Wash all bed linens at the same time.
Exterior Upkeep
No spring cleaning checklist for the outside of your home is complete without addressing these maintenance tasks.
Power wash siding
Use a power washer to remove dirt, mildew and chalky residue from exterior siding. Adjust pressure to avoid damaging the siding material.
Repaint faded trim
Freshen up the appearance of window and door trim by sanding peeling paint and applying a fresh coat in the color of your choice.
Replace damaged siding
Replace any warped, cracked or rotten pieces of siding and trim around windows, doors, corners and overhangs to maintain weather protection.
Patch holes
Fill holes of any kind including those left from removing exterior fixtures using an appropriate sealant or patch compound for the surface material.
Clean gutters and downspouts
Remove leaves and debris from gutters. Confirm downspouts direct water away from the foundation. Install gutter guards to prevent future clogs.
Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist
Inspect the roof
Scan the roof surface for missing, cracked or buckling shingles. Schedule a professional repair for any issues to prevent leaks.
Check caulking and flashing
Recaulk cracks and gaps around windows, doors, pipes, vents and trim if the sealant is cracked or missing. Ensure flashing is secure.
Clean outdoor lighting
Wash dirt, spiderwebs, and grime off of exterior lighting fixtures. Replace burnt out bulbs so your home is well-lit and inviting.
Deep clean exterior doors
Remove dirt, grime, salt stains, and mildew from exterior doors using the appropriate cleaner for the finish. Avoid harming weatherstripping.
Test garage door opener
Confirm garage door openers and safety sensors are working properly. Lubricate and tighten moving parts including rollers and hinges.
Dream Yard Additions
No time like spring to plan upgrades and additions for your landscape! Consider taking on these dream yard projects this season.
Build a patio or deck
Extend your living space outdoors by installing a stone, brick, or wood patio or deck. Choose materials that match your home.
Create a fire pit area
Designate an area to gather around a fire pit or chiminea on cool evenings. Select fireproof materials for the surrounding ground surface.
Install an outdoor kitchen
Cook, dine, and entertain outdoors with a built-in kitchen including seating, appliances, prep space, lighting and storage.
Add a water feature
Enhance ambiance and provide soothing sounds by incorporating a fountain, pond or other water feature. Consider low-maintenance options.
Plant a privacy screen
Plant hedges, trees, bamboo or build a fence to create more privacy from neighbors. Check local ordinances first.
Improve lighting and electricity
Install attractive outdoor light fixtures. Add exterior outlets in key locations to eliminate messy extension cords.
Build garden beds
Create designated garden beds for vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals. Use borders or retaining walls to keep soil contained.
Pour a decorative path
Guide foot traffic and accent the landscape by pouring a stepping stone, paver, brick, or concrete path through garden beds and lawn areas.
Maintain All Season Long
Spring yard cleanup sets the stage for success the rest of the gardening season. Continue practicing proper care and maintenance all year through fall including:
- Mowing the lawn at the proper height
- Pruning trees, shrubs, and plants at the right time
- Pulling weeds frequently
- Watering the lawn and gardens adequately
- Applying mulch to retain moisture
- Fertilizing lawns and gardens as needed
- Managing pests and diseases organically
- Removing spent plants in fall
- Preparing correctly for winter
Stay on top of routine seasonal yard maintenance and you’ll reap the benefits of a healthy, thriving landscape for years to come. Here’s to happy gardening!
Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Yard Cleanup
Spring yard cleanup involves a lot of different tasks. Here are answers to some common questions people have about tackling their outdoor to-do list this season:
When is the best time to do spring yard cleanup?
The optimal time is early spring as soon as the soil has thawed and dried out enough to work in. That way your yard will look its best as temperatures warm up. Late March to mid-April is ideal timing for most climates.
Should I prune my bushes and trees before or after spring cleanup?
Prune just before new growth emerges, which is usually before spring cleanup tasks like fertilizing and raking begin. Pruning too early removes protective winter buds. But don’t wait until after leaves emerge or you’ll remove the new growth.
How short should I cut my grass during first spring mowing?
For cool season grasses, mow at the lowest recommended height for your type of grass to remove debris and get air circulating. For warm season grasses, wait until consistent soil temperatures reach 55-60°F before the first mow. Never cut off more than 1/3 of the blade height.
How do I revive my lawn after winter?
Rake thoroughly, aerate compacted areas, apply a pre-emergent herbicide, spread a balanced fertilizer, overseed any bare patches, and maintain proper mowing, watering and dethatching. This restores your lawn’s health so it thrives through spring.
Is it better to mulch or bag clippings when mowing my lawn in spring?
Mulching is best if your mower has that function. It returns nitrogen and moisture to the soil. Or use clippings as green compost material. Bagging is only needed if excessive clippings smother the grass.
How do I repair bare patches in my lawn?
Loosen the top 1/2 inch of soil then apply grass seed suited for sun/shade and the type of traffic the area receives. Cover with 1/4 inch layer of compost or straw. Mist often to keep moist and allow several weeks for new grass to establish before heavy use.
When should I fertilize my lawn in the spring?
Apply fertilizer 6-8 weeks before the expected season of rapid grass growth for your region. This fuels healthy summer growth. For cool season northern grasses, fertilize in early spring. Fertilize warm season southern grasses in early to mid-summer.
How do I revive my garden beds after winter?
Remove weeds, loosen compacted soil, apply fresh compost, fertilize plants with a balanced organic formula, install new edging, lay down mulch, and transplant new plants. Healthy spring care rejuvenates your beds for the growing season.
What kind of mulch is best for spring application?
Choose an organic mulch like shredded bark or wood chips which breaks down over time to improve soil nutrition. Apply 2-3 inches deep avoiding direct contact with plant crowns. Replenish yearly as it decomposes.
When should I prune my trees and shrubs in spring?
The optimal time is just before bud break which varies by plant. Pruning too early exposes plants to cold damage while late pruning removes new growth. Research each plant individually so pruning is done at the right time.
How do I prepare my garden tools for spring?
Clean tools thoroughly, sharpen blades, lubricate moving parts, replace worn handles and make all necessary repairs. Proper care prevents frustration and injuries when tackling spring projects. Invest in quality tools that provide years of peak performance.
Conclusion
Spring is a new beginning for your yard. Take advantage of the opportunity to get a fresh start and implement practices that will keep your landscape looking its best. Use this