Summary of the Preparing Your Lawn for Spring Podcast Video
In this episode of the Houston Grass Podcast, Michael Romine discusses various lawn care activities as spring approaches. He covers the impact of recent cold weather on lawn conditions, emphasizing the different stages of grass dormancy and greening, particularly noting how Bermuda and Palmetto St. Augustine grasses respond. Michael offers practical advice on yard inspection for winter damage, including brown patch and thatch issues. He advises caution with early fertilization and herbicide application, detailing specific products like Nitro-Phos fertilizers and their proper use. Additionally, he discusses the importance of pre-emergent treatments, the process and timing of yard scalping, and the benefits of core aeration. The podcast also highlights the availability of specific grass varieties and recommends early planning for any grass installation projects.
Introduction to Preparing Your Lawn for Spring
Good morning, everyone. I’m Michael Romine, and this is the Houston Grass Podcast. As we approach the last few days of February, we’ve experienced another round of cold weather, with temperatures low enough for me to cover my palm trees again. This has left everything looking pretty brown outside. However, I’ve noticed small buds on the trees, and before this last cold snap, Bermuda grass had started to show signs of life. Unfortunately, the cold has pushed it back into dormancy, but with warmer temperatures on the horizon, the grass will soon bounce back.
Grass Growth & Seasonal Changes
The Role of Soil Temperature
Grass greenness is primarily determined by soil temperature. Here on the Gulf Coast, we’ve had ample rainfall, unlike some areas in Central Texas. Now, all we need is a little warmth for everything to start greening up.
Bermuda grass is typically the first to green up, followed by Palmetto St. Augustine. My brother at the farm recently mowed Palmetto St. Augustine, as it greens up the fastest among St. Augustines. The goal of this early mowing is to remove the dead material and allow sunlight to reach the new growth.
The Current State of Grass & Scalping
Is the Grass Green Yet?
One of the most common questions we receive this time of year is, “Is your grass green?” The simple answer is no. Palmetto is showing some signs of greenness, but it is far from fully green. Most other grasses remain dormant. However, within a few weeks, we should see about 50% green coverage, assuming no additional frosts.
When to Start Scalping
Now is a great time to inspect your yard for winter damage, shade stress, and areas that need revitalization. The next three months are the best time for any lawn improvements, as moderate temperatures are ideal for grass growth.
If you’re considering scalping your yard, hold off for another few weeks. Scalping too early can expose new growth to late-season frost, which could be harmful. However, you can lightly rake the lawn with a soft rake to remove loose debris and allow better airflow to the soil.
Lawn Diseases & Preventative Care
Brown Patch Fungus
While brown patch is typically a fall issue, it can appear during transitional seasons. If you have areas that consistently develop brown patches, consider applying Heritage G fungicide. Preventative applications require half the amount of product compared to treating an active outbreak, making prevention the more cost-effective approach.
Thatch & Debris Removal
If you have a thick layer of thatch—especially in Zoysia lawns—make a plan to address it. However, avoid heavy raking until we are closer to the growing season. Removing excessive thatch too early could expose sensitive new growth to damage.
Spring Fertilization & Weed Control
Choosing the Right Fertilizer
It’s almost time for spring fertilization. We follow the Randy Lemmon Lawn Care Schedule, which aligns with Nitro-Phos fertilizers. The primary options include:
- Imperial (Orange/Red Bag – 15-5-10)
- No weed control additives; strictly a fertilizer.
- Best choice if you don’t have weed issues.
- Apply after mowing, water in immediately.
- Weed & Feed with Atrazine (Purple Bag – 15-5-10)
- Kills broadleaf weeds but is NOT safe for Bermuda or Zoysia grass.
- Apply after mowing, water in immediately.
- Can be harmful to trees if used repeatedly under them.
- Weed & Feed with Trimec (Turquoise Bag – 15-5-10)
- Safer for all grass types, including Bermuda and Zoysia.
- Apply when grass is damp (morning dew or light irrigation).
- Do NOT water in immediately—wait 48 hours.
Pre-Emergent Herbicide Application
Now is also the time to apply Barricade pre-emergent herbicide. This product prevents weed seeds from germinating, reducing the need for post-emergent herbicides later. Ideally, pre-emergent should be applied three to four times per year to maintain a weed-free lawn.
Core Aeration & Lawn Maintenance
When to Aerate
Core aeration is best done in mid-to-late March when grass is actively growing. This process helps break up soil compaction, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate more effectively. If you plan to aerate, make sure your grass is fully out of dormancy.
Spot Treating Weeds
If your weed problem is small, consider pulling them manually instead of using herbicides. Many herbicides are strong chemicals and should be used sparingly. If weeds are widespread, use a targeted post-emergent treatment instead of applying chemicals across the entire yard.
Spring Grass Availability & Installation Services
Ordering Grass Early
If you anticipate needing grass for a project, now is the time to call and reserve your order. Our installer, Omar, gets booked up quickly, often weeks in advance by late March. While St. Augustine is always available, Bermuda and Zoysia supplies can become limited.
Final Thoughts & Upcoming Topics
What’s Coming Next Month?
- Removing winter covers from backflow devices.
- Preparing irrigation systems for spring.
- More on mowing strategies and core aeration.
Store Hours & Contact Information
Starting the first weekend of March, we will begin Saturday hours (8 AM – 12 PM) in addition to our regular weekday schedule (Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM). If you need advice, call us or visit us—we’re happy to help!
Thanks for listening, and enjoy the start of spring!
