Introduction:
Top 3 Things to Watch Out for After Spring Raking in Ottawa, Spring is in full swing in Ottawa, and it’s time to turn our attention to our lawns. Raking away dead grass and leaves is an essential first step to preparing your lawn for the warmer months ahead. But once your spring raking is complete, there are several things you need to watch out for to ensure a healthy and beautiful lawn. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 3 things to keep an eye on: spring grubs and the animals that dig them up, winterkill and the need for overseeding, and early fertilizing for a lush, green lawn.
Spring Grubs and Their Animal Predators
As the soil temperature warms up, spring grubs become active and can wreak havoc on your lawn. Grubs, which are the larvae of various beetles, feed on the roots of grass, causing damage to your lawn. Animals like skunks and crows are attracted to these grubs and will dig up your yard in search of a tasty meal.
To minimize the damage caused by these animals, it’s essential to address the grub problem early. There are several methods to control grubs, such as using biological controls like our Grub-B-Gone. Additionally, make sure to maintain a healthy lawn as a strong root system can better withstand the damage caused by grubs.
Winterkill and the Need for Seeding
Winterkill is a common problem in Ottawa, where lawns are exposed to harsh winter conditions. It refers to the damage or death of turfgrass caused by a combination of factors, such as snow mold, ice, Salt damage along roadways and cold temperatures. You may notice brown or bare patches on your lawn because of winterkill.
To repair these areas, overseeding is essential. Overseeding involves spreading grass seed over your existing lawn to fill in the damaged spots and improve the overall density and health of your grass. Choose a grass seed that’s well-suited for Ottawa’s climate, such as a cool season blend of fescue, ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass. Be sure to water the area consistently after overseeding to promote seed germination and growth. At Green Unlimited we use the highest quality grass seed available to ensure the very best turf for your lawn.
Early Fertilizing for a Green Lawn and Weed Prevention
Fertilizing your lawn in the early spring helps it to green up and thicken, which not only makes it look better but also helps to choke out annual weeds that are about to germinate. A balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is essential for promoting healthy grass growth.
Applying a slow-release fertilizer in early spring will provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to thrive. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and timing. Hiring a professional company to do this will take all the guesswork and time doing the work so you can do the things you really want to do. Green Unlimited uses the highest quality products for this essential feeding.
Conclusion:
After completing your spring raking in Ottawa, it’s essential to stay vigilant and address potential issues that can affect the health and appearance of your lawn. By keeping an eye out for spring grubs and their animal predators, repairing winterkill damage through overseeding, and applying early fertilizer, you can ensure a beautiful, green lawn throughout the warmer months. Happy gardening!

Chris Urquhart, started in the landscaping industry in 1986 with nothing but a truck and a dream, but thanks to a lot of hard work and technical knowledge, he has made Green Unlimited the largest independent lawn care company in the Greater Ottawa area.