Winter to Spring Yard Checklist: Dad's Essential Tasks

Initial Inspection

Gutter Inspection

Winter ice and snow can damage gutters and downspouts. Check for loose connections, sagging sections, and clear any remaining debris. Proper drainage is crucial for protecting your foundation as spring rains arrive.

Foundation Check

Inspect your foundation for new cracks or movement that may have occurred during freeze-thaw cycles. Small cracks should be marked and monitored, while larger issues may require professional attention.

Roof Assessment

Look for missing or damaged shingles, particularly in valleys and around vents. Winter storms and ice dams can cause significant damage that should be addressed before spring rains.

Winter Cleanup

Remove Winter Protection

Remove hose guards, plant covers, and other winter protection equipment. Clean and store these items properly for next season. Leaving protection on too long can damage plants and encourage disease.

Clear Winter Debris

Remove fallen branches, matted leaves, and other debris that accumulated over winter. This prevents mold growth and allows new spring growth to emerge unimpeded.

Assess Plant Damage

Check for winter burn on evergreens and die-back on perennials. Wait until new growth appears before removing damaged sections, as some plants may recover from seemingly dead areas.

Vole Damage Inspection

Look for tunneling patterns in lawn areas and around tree bases. Voles can cause significant damage under snow cover, and identifying affected areas early allows for proper remediation.

Spring Preparation

Plant Pruning

Different plants require pruning at different times. Early spring is ideal for hydrangeas that bloom on new wood, while you should wait on lilacs and other spring-blooming shrubs until after flowering.

Irrigation System

Carefully reactivate your irrigation system, checking for leaks or damaged heads. Start with a low-pressure test to minimize potential damage from winter-damaged pipes.

Drainage Patterns

Spring thaw reveals how water moves across your property. Address any areas where water pools or flows toward your foundation, adjusting grade or adding drainage solutions as needed.

Supply Gathering

Mulch Selection

Choose appropriate mulch for different areas: wood chips for perennial beds, pine straw for acid-loving plants. Calculate volume needed based on depth of 2-3 inches for optimal weed control and moisture retention. For larger areas, check prices with local landscaping supply companies—their bulk rates are often better than big box stores, and they typically offer delivery services.

Use our landscaping cost estimate calculator to prepare a budget for your spring yard maintenance costs.

Soil Amendments

Test soil pH and nutrient levels to determine necessary amendments. Spring is ideal for incorporating organic matter and adjusting soil chemistry before the growing season begins.

Lawn Care Products

Consider your approach to lawn care products carefully, especially if you have children who play in the yard. While traditional methods often recommend pre-emergent herbicides and chemical fertilizers, I personally opt for a more natural approach since my kids frequently play on our lawn. Instead of using aggressive chemicals, focus on:

• Quality grass seed for overseeding (the best natural defense against weeds)
• Organic compost for natural fertilization
• Manual weed removal tools
• Natural lawn supplements like corn gluten meal