4March 2025
As winter fades and spring arrives in Midland Park, Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Glen Rock, and Bergen County, NJ, your lawn is waking up from dormancy. However, before you can enjoy lush, green grass, the first step in spring lawn care is cleaning up yard debris. A proper cleanup ensures your lawn gets the sunlight, air, and nutrients it needs to thrive. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your yard in top shape this season.
Why Cleaning Up Yard Debris is Essential
Winter can leave behind fallen leaves, broken branches, and compacted layers of dead grass (thatch). If left unattended, these materials can:
- Block sunlight and air circulation, preventing healthy grass growth.
- Encourage mold and disease due to trapped moisture.
- Attract pests, such as rodents and insects, which thrive in debris-covered lawns.
Clearing your yard of debris not only improves lawn health but also prepares it for fertilization, aeration, and new growth.
Step-by-Step Yard Cleanup Guide
1. Start with Large Debris Removal
Before tackling the smaller particles, remove any large branches, sticks, or leftover winter decorations. Use gloves and a rake to collect fallen twigs and other debris.
- Dispose of organic debris in a compost bin or follow your local waste disposal guidelines.
- If you have larger branches, consider using a wood chipper to create mulch for your garden beds.
2. Rake Up Leaves and Dead Grass
Even if you raked in the fall, leaves can accumulate over winter. A thick layer of leaves or dead grass (thatch) can suffocate your lawn and create a breeding ground for fungi and pests.
- Use a lightweight leaf rake or a dethatching rake to remove dead grass and leaves without damaging young shoots.
- For larger areas, a leaf blower or vacuum can speed up the process.
3. Check for Snow Mold and Lawn Damage
Winter conditions can lead to snow mold, a fungal disease that causes matted, discolored patches of grass.
- If you notice gray or pink mold patches, gently rake the area to improve airflow and dry out moisture.
- Avoid excessive walking on damp grass to prevent further damage.
4. Remove Weeds and Invasive Plants
Spring is the best time to get ahead of weeds before they take over your lawn.
- Pull weeds by hand or use a weed removal tool to extract the roots completely.
- For eco-friendly control, consider applying a corn gluten meal pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed seeds from germinating.
5. Trim Overgrown Shrubs and Edges
Pruning overgrown shrubs and trimming lawn edges give your yard a neat appearance and allow better air circulation.
- Use sharp pruning shears for small bushes and hedge trimmers for larger shrubs.
- Clear away any trimmings to prevent disease from spreading.
Pro Tips for Efficient Yard Cleanup
✅ Use a mulching mower to chop up small leaves and return nutrients to the soil.
✅ Compost organic debris to create nutrient-rich soil amendments.
✅ Check drainage areas and clear out blocked gutters to prevent water logging.
✅ Plan your cleanup on a dry day to avoid compacting wet soil.
Prepare for the Next Steps in Spring Lawn Care
Once your lawn is clear of debris, it’s ready for aeration, fertilization, and over-seeding. By starting with a thorough cleanup, you set the foundation for a healthy, vibrant lawn throughout the growing season.
Stay tuned for the next post in our Spring Lawn Care Blog Series!