Year-Round New Hampshire Lawn Care Calendar

Maintaining a beautiful lawn in New Hampshire requires careful attention and tailored care throughout the year. With its distinct four seasons and varying weather patterns, understanding how to best care for your lawn month by month is essential for keeping it lush, green, and resilient. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through a detailed breakdown of lawn care tasks to tackle each month, ensuring your lawn thrives in the Granite State's unique climate.

January - March: Winter Preparation and Planning

While New Hampshire's winters may seem dormant, there are still essential lawn care tasks to tackle during these months.

January

• Monitor lawn for signs of pests or diseases: Despite the cold, pests like voles and diseases like snow mold can still damage your lawn. As possible, periodically check your turf for signs of damage.
• Clear snow from walkways and areas prone to damage: Snow buildup on walkways and areas where snow is compacted can damage the grass beneath. Clear snow promptly to prevent this damage.
• Avoid walking on frozen grass: Walking on frozen grass can lead to damage and compaction, which can harm the grass.

February

• Continue monitoring for pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases that may have gone unnoticed during January.
• Sharpen mower blades: Sharpening your mower blades now will ensure a clean cut when you start mowing in the spring, promoting healthier grass growth.
• Plan landscaping or lawn renovation projects: Use this time to research and plan any landscaping or lawn renovation projects you want to tackle in the spring. Consider factors like grass type, soil health, and drainage.

March

• Remove any remaining debris: As the snow melts, remove any remaining debris from your lawn, such as fallen branches or dead leaves. This will prevent it from smothering the grass and inhibiting growth.
• Rake and dethatch: Rake your lawn to remove dead grass, leaves, and other debris. If your lawn has a thatch buildup of more than half an inch, consider dethatching to promote better airflow and water absorption.
• Apply pre-emergent herbicides: Apply pre-emergent weed control to prevent weed seeds from germinating and taking root in your lawn. Follow the product's instructions carefully for best results.
• Start mowing if the weather permits: If temperatures begin to warm up and the grass starts to grow, you can begin mowing. Start with a higher mowing height and gradually lower it as the grass grows.

April - June: Spring Growth and Maintenance

As temperatures rise, your lawn will enter a period of active growth during late spring, requiring regular maintenance and care.

April

• Begin regular mowing: Start mowing your lawn regularly, adjusting the height as needed. Aim to remove no more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
• Apply fertilizer: Apply a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content to promote green growth. Look for a fertilizer specifically formulated for spring application and follow the instructions for best results.
• Spot-treat weeds: If you notice any weeds starting to emerge, spot-treat them with an appropriate herbicide. Be sure to follow the product's instructions and avoid spraying on windy days.
• Aerate if necessary: If your lawn has compacted soil, consider aerating to improve air and water circulation to the roots. This will promote healthier grass growth.

May

• Continue regular mowing: Maintain a regular mowing schedule, adjusting the height as needed. Aim to mow when the grass is dry to achieve a clean cut.
• Apply broadleaf weed control: Apply a broadleaf weed control product if you notice an influx of dandelions, clover, or other broadleaf weeds in your lawn. Follow the product's instructions carefully to avoid damaging your grass.
• Overseed bare or thin areas: If your lawn has bare or thin spots, overseed those areas to encourage denser growth. Choose a grass seed blend that is appropriate for your soil and growing conditions.
• Monitor for signs of fungal diseases: Keep an eye out for signs of fungal diseases, such as brown patches or powdery mildew, especially during periods of high humidity. Treat promptly if necessary to prevent spreading.

June

• Mow regularly: Continue mowing your lawn regularly, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time. This will help maintain a healthy root system and prevent stress on the grass.
• Water deeply and infrequently: Water your lawn deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Aim for about an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
• Monitor for pests: Keep an eye out for pests like grubs, chinch bugs, and armyworms, and treat them as needed with appropriate insecticides. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing damage to your lawn.
• Apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer: Apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth throughout the summer. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results.

July - September: Summer Maintenance and Growth

Summer brings warmer temperatures and increased lawn care requirements to keep your grass healthy and resilient.

July

• Deep watering: Water your lawn deeply during dry spells, early in the morning or late in the evening, to promote deep grass root growth and drought tolerance.
• Raise the mowing height: Raise the cutting height of your mower to help the lawn retain moisture and shade the soil, reducing water evaporation and weed growth.
• Watch for signs of heat stress: Keep an eye out for signs of heat stress, such as wilting or browning grass, and adjust watering accordingly. Providing adequate water during hot, dry periods will help your lawn stay healthy and green.
• Spot-treat weeds: If you notice any weeds starting to emerge, spot-treat them with an appropriate herbicide. Be sure to follow the product's instructions and avoid spraying on windy days.

August

• Continue deep watering: Continue to water your lawn deeply as needed during the late summer, adjusting your irrigation schedule based on weather conditions. Watering deeply and infrequently will encourage deep root growth and help your lawn withstand hot, dry weather.
• Monitor for signs of lawn diseases: Keep an eye out for signs of lawn diseases, such as brown patches or rust, and treat them promptly if necessary. Improving air circulation and reducing thatch buildup can help prevent disease development.
• Consider overseeding or lawn renovation: If your lawn has bare or thin spots, consider overseeding or lawn renovation to promote denser growth and improve overall turf health. Choose a grass seed blend that is well-suited to your soil and growing conditions.
• Reduce foot traffic: Minimize foot traffic on your lawn during hot, dry periods to reduce stress on the grass and prevent compaction. Consider using pathways or stepping stones to redirect traffic and protect vulnerable areas of your lawn.

September

• Fertilize for fall: Apply a fall lawn fertilizer to promote root growth and winter hardiness. Look for a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus and potassium content, which will help your lawn withstand cold temperatures and recover from summer stress.
• Aerate if necessary: If your lawn has compacted soil or heavy thatch buildup, consider aerating to improve soil drainage and air circulation. Aeration will also help reduce compaction and promote deeper root growth.
• Continue mowing: Continue mowing your lawn as needed, gradually lowering the cutting height as temperatures cool. Maintaining a regular mowing schedule will help keep your lawn looking neat and tidy while promoting healthy growth.
• Overseed bare or thin areas: If your lawn has bare or thin spots, overseed those areas to encourage new grass growth before winter. Choose a grass seed blend that is appropriate for your soil and growing conditions, and be sure to water regularly to promote germination.

October - December: Fall Prep and Winterization

As temperatures cool, it's time to prepare your lawn for the winter months ahead.

October

• Rake leaves: Remove fallen leaves from your lawn regularly to prevent them from smothering the grass and inhibiting growth. Consider composting or mulching leaves to recycle nutrients back into the soil.
• Apply a winterizing fertilizer: Apply a winterizing fertilizer to promote root growth and winter hardiness. Look for a fertilizer with a higher potassium content, which will help your lawn withstand cold temperatures and recover from summer stress.
• Complete any remaining lawn renovation projects: If you have any remaining lawn renovation projects, such as overseeding or aerating, complete them before the ground freezes. Fall is an ideal time to improve soil health and address any underlying issues that may be affecting your lawn.

November

• Finish winterizing tasks: Complete any remaining winterizing tasks before the first snowfall, such as draining and storing hoses, cleaning and storing lawn equipment, and shutting off irrigation systems. Taking care of these tasks now will help protect your lawn and garden equipment from winter damage.
• Clear leaves and debris: Remove any remaining leaves and debris from your lawn before the snow arrives to prevent mold and disease. Raking regularly will also help keep your lawn looking tidy and promote healthy growth in the spring.
• Store lawn equipment: Properly store your lawn equipment for the winter to prevent damage and ensure it's ready to use when spring arrives. Clean and oil your mower, trimmer, and other tools, and store them in a dry, sheltered location away from the elements.

December

• Tidy up the lawn: Take advantage of any mild days to tidy up your lawn before the snow arrives. Clear any remaining leaves and debris, and make sure your lawn is free of clutter and obstacles.
• Make notes for next year: Take this time to make notes about your lawn care experiences over the past year and any changes or improvements you'd like to make next year. Keeping track of your observations will help you plan for future lawn care tasks and ensure your lawn stays healthy and vibrant year after year.
• Enjoy the winter break: With your lawn care tasks complete, take some time to relax and enjoy the winter season. Spend time with family and friends, and recharge your batteries before the busy gardening season begins again in the spring.

Professional Lawn Care

Caring for your lawn in New Hampshire requires a year-round commitment and an understanding of the unique challenges each season brings. By following this detailed breakdown of lawn care tasks month by month, you can keep your lawn healthy, vibrant, and resilient, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. 

However, lawn care can take a lot of time and effort. If you want a healthy lawn without spending hours working in your yard, it might be time to call Allegro Lawn for professional lawn care services! Our team of experienced technicians has the local expertise to help you achieve a green lawn the whole family can enjoy. Contact our team today to set up a lawn inspection.

FAQ About Lawn Care in New Hampshire

When Is The Best Time To Fertilize In New Hampshire?

The best time to fertilize your lawn in New Hampshire depends on the type of fertilizer and the needs of your grass. For most lawns, a general rule is to fertilize in the early spring (March to April) to promote healthy growth as the grass emerges from dormancy. Additionally, a fall application (September to October) can help strengthen the roots and prepare the lawn for winter. It's essential to choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for New Hampshire's climate and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing.

When Should You Aerate in New Hampshire?

Aeration is typically recommended in the fall (September to October) for cool-season grasses in New Hampshire. This timing allows the grass to recover and fill in any aerated holes before winter dormancy. Fall aeration helps relieve soil compaction, improve air and water penetration, and promote healthier root growth. However, if your lawn experiences heavy foot traffic or compaction issues, aeration can also be done in the spring (April to May) to address these problems before the growing season.

When Should You Start Mowing In New Hampshire?

The start of the mowing season in New Hampshire depends on weather conditions and the growth of your grass. Typically, you can begin mowing in early spring (March to April) once the grass starts to green up and grow actively.

• Start by mowing at a higher setting and gradually lower the cutting height as the grass grows thicker.
• Avoid mowing when the grass is wet to prevent clumping and scalping.
• Adjust your mowing frequency based on grass growth, aiming to remove no more than one-third of the grass height at a time.

What Is The Best Type Of Grass Seed To Plant In New Hampshire?

The best type of grass seed to plant in New Hampshire depends on factors such as climate, soil type, and intended use. Cool-season grasses are well-suited to New Hampshire's climate, with popular options including Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and tall fescue.

• Kentucky bluegrass is known for its lush, dense growth and tolerance to cold temperatures, making it a popular choice for lawns in New Hampshire.
• Perennial ryegrass germinates quickly and provides excellent wear tolerance, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
• Fine fescues are known for their shade tolerance and low maintenance requirements, while tall fescue offers good drought tolerance and disease resistance.

Consider a grass seed blend containing a mix of these species to achieve a well-rounded lawn that can withstand New Hampshire's variable weather conditions. Be sure to select grass seed varieties that are recommended for your specific growing conditions and follow proper planting and care practices for the best results.