Spring is officially here and it’s time to start thinking about lawn preparation for the new season.
Clint McManaway, store manager at Hagan’s Outdoor Equipment, said one of the first things homeowners should do before beginning their spring yard work is to pick up sticks, limbs, gravel or trash that may have accumulated during the fall and winter.
“Debris like that can do major damage to your equipment and your property,” he said.
If your mower and other lawn equipment have been inactive during the off-season, it more than likely will need some attention before it is ready for another year of use.
“Hagan’s Outdoor Equipment can perform a winter service to get your equipment ready for the mowing season,” he said. “But if you’re interested in a DIY job, we also provide most all of the fluids, filters, belts, blades and other general maintenance items needed to get the job done.”
McManaway said at minimum people should start with fresh fuel to ensure easy starts and smooth operation of all equipment.
“As far as service, most equipment manufacturers publish their required service intervals, but generally speaking people should service all of their outdoor power equipment every 50 hours of use or annually, whichever comes first,” he said. ‘It’s important to do all scheduled maintenance and service and to do it early to prevent downtime and costly repairs when the grass is actually growing and people need that piece of equipment.
Some other tips to remember before beginning your seasonal yard work:
- Familiarize yourself with power tools and how they work. Read owner’s manuals and learn as much as you can before operating.
- Check cords on tools and extension cords for cuts, cracks, and frayed wires — and do not use them if damaged.
- Fill in the blank patches of your yard with seed or sod.
- Clean out flower beds. Remove any weeds, dead plants and other debris.
- Use ladders safely: Set on a firm, level surface; never stand on one of the top three rungs.
- Call 811 before you dig. This notifies local utilities to check your property before you plant a tree, dig a trench, or set fence posts.
According to Better Lawn Care’s website, the last item on your spring lawn to-do list should be watering. It’s tempting to start watering in early spring, but there is usually plenty of rain to keep your lawn healthy. Wait to water until the weather gets warm and dry.
