After an extra chilly winter, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your lawn for spring. The Texas humid subtropical climate presents unique challenges for lawn care, which means gearing up your yard for the shift into warmer weather is essential.

The best time to get started? Right around the beginning of March. At this time, your lawn begins transitioning out of dormancy, making it the perfect moment to take action.

To make the process easier, we’ve put together a practical pre-spring checklist for homeowners to set the stage for a thriving lawn throughout the season.

What Grass Grows in Texas? The Lawn Basics

Grasses That Thrive in Texas

Yards in this region typically feature warm-season grasses that are well-adapted to our hot and humid summers. Among the most popular varieties are:

• Bermuda Grass: Durable, drought-tolerant, and thriving in full sun, this grass provides a lush look while easily withstanding heavy foot traffic.
• St. Augustine Grass: Known for its dense coverage and lush, dark green color, this grass is perfect for creating a thick, carpet-like lawn in yards with partial sunlight.
• Zoysia Grass: Low-maintenance grass is highly adaptable to different soil types and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade.

All three require attention during the pre-spring months to ensure healthy regrowth and maintenance during summer.

If your lawn suffered damage during the recent freeze, be sure to check out our guide on post-freeze lawn care for additional tips: Post-Freeze Lawn Care Guide for Southeast Houston.

Watch Out for Weeds

During the milder winter months, certain weeds can take root and threaten your lawn’s health if left unchecked. Common culprits include:

• Crabgrass: A fast-growing, invasive weed with wide leaves that spreads quickly.
• Nutsedge: Recognizable by its bright green color and triangular stems, this weed thrives in moist soils.
• Clover: A low-growing perennial with distinctive three-leaf clusters and small white or pink flowers, often indicating low nitrogen levels in the soil.

Got Fungus? Need Fungicide.

After the wet fall season we've had, keep an eye out for lawn fungus, a common problem often mistaken for weeds. Fungal growth can harm your lawn by competing with grass for nutrients, especially as spring approaches.

Identifying and addressing fungus early is crucial to keeping your lawn healthy and thriving. In some cases, applying a fungicide may be necessary to stop the spread and protect your grass.

6 Steps to a Spring-Ready Lawn

To ensure your lawn is primed for spring, we recommend the following essential steps:

1. Clean and Prepare

   • Remove debris such as leaves, twigs, and litter from your lawn.
   • Rake thoroughly to eliminate dead grass and thatch.
   • Service your lawn equipment, including sharpening mower blades and performing necessary tune-ups.
   • Turn on your sprinkler system and check for damage.

2. Assess and Test

   • Survey your lawn for winter damage, including water damage and rodent tunneling.
   • Identify any bare patches or thin areas that may need attention.
   • Check for fungus after last fall’s heavy rain in Texas to determine the need for fungicide.
   • Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content.

3. Treat the Soil

   • Aerate compacted areas to improve air, water, and nutrient penetration.
   • Check for areas retaining water to keep your lawn from becoming a bog. You may need to add some drainage or resloping to your yard.

4. Combat Weeds

   • Remove any visible winter weeds.
   • Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil temperatures consistently reach 55°F, typically in mid-February to early March for Texas.
   • Use post-emergent herbicides for existing weeds as needed.

5. Revitalize the Grass

   • Overseed bare or thin areas, or consider a re-sod with Bermuda grass.
   • Apply a slow-release, high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
   • Water deeply with the proper sprinkler system to encourage strong root development.

6. Prepare for Regular Maintenance

   • Plan your mowing schedule, starting with higher blade settings and gradually lowering them.
   • Set up or check your sprinkler system for the upcoming season.
     • Do you have a smart controller on your sprinkler system that will help you conserve water?
     • Check your backflow and pipes for leaks.
     • Check if your sprinkler heads are broken, spraying on sidewalks/driveway or not watering in the right direction.

Enjoy a Beautiful Lawn This Spring

A beautiful lawn requires a 3-pronged approach

Smart IRRIGATION keeps your lawn perfectly hydrated without waste

Proper MOWING keeps your lawn healthy and lush

Year-round FERTILIZATION ensures vibrant growth

Following this guide will give your lawn the best possible start to the season. Tending to your lawn now will create a vibrant, healthy space you can be proud of—perfect for everything from hosting backyard barbecues to enjoying quiet mornings with a fresh cup of coffee.

At Heroes Lawn Care, we understand the unique needs of Texas lawns. From professional landscaping and irrigation setup to weed control and fertilization, we’re here to handle all your lawn care needs so you can focus on enjoying your outdoor space.

Give us a call today at 832-536-8350 for a free estimate, or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on our latest tips, services, and community events.