Spring Yard Cleanup Routine
Spring cleanup is the foundation for year-round curb appeal. This annual reset clears winter damage, preps beds for planting, and reveals what needs attention. Skip it and you're fighting uphill all season.
Quick Summary
Time needed
Full day (6-8 hours)
Cost
$100-$300 (materials)
Difficulty
Medium (physical)
Complete Spring Cleanup Checklist
1Rake Lawn and Beds
Remove all winter debris, dead leaves, sticks. Rake lawn lightly to lift matted grass. Clear beds completely to inspect plants.
2Cut Back Dead Perennials
Trim last year's dead stems to 2-3 inches above ground. Remove completely if plant didn't survive winter. Compost healthy trimmings.
3Edge Beds and Walkways
Redefine bed edges with half-moon edger. Clean edges make everything look intentional. Create 3-4 inch deep edge.
4Apply Pre-Emergent
Prevent crabgrass before it starts. Apply when forsythia blooms or soil hits 55°F. Can't seed for 6-8 weeks after application.
5Mulch Planting Beds
Apply 2-3 inches fresh mulch after weeding. Pull old mulch back from plant stems. Brown or black mulch looks most natural.
6Prune Shrubs and Trees
Remove dead or damaged branches. Prune spring-blooming shrubs AFTER they flower. Summer bloomers can be pruned now.
7Clean and Service Mower
Change oil, replace spark plug, sharpen blade, fresh gas. First mow when grass is 3-4 inches tall, cut to 2.5-3 inches.
8Power Wash Hardscapes
Clean driveway, walkways, porch. Remove winter salt stains and algae. Use appropriate pressure for each surface.
9Inspect and Repair
Check for winter damage: loose siding, damaged gutters, fence repairs needed. Address before planting to avoid trampling new plants.
10Plan and Plant
After cleanup reveals gaps, add new plants. Wait until after last frost for annuals. Perennials and shrubs can go in earlier.
Timing Is Everything
Don't Start Too Early: Working saturated soil compacts it, damages roots, and creates mud tracks. Wait until soil crumbles easily when squeezed, not forms a ball.
Regional Timing Guide
- •Zones 3-4 (Northern): Late April to mid-May
- •Zones 5-6 (Midwest/Northeast): Early to mid-April
- •Zones 7-8 (Mid-Atlantic/South): Mid to late March
- •Zones 9-10 (Deep South): Early March
Essential Tools and Materials
Tools Needed
- • Leaf rake (fan rake)
- • Hard rake (bow rake)
- • Half-moon edger or power edger
- • Pruning shears and loppers
- • Wheelbarrow or garden cart
- • Lawn mower (serviced)
Materials to Buy
- • Mulch (2-3 yards typical yard)
- • Pre-emergent herbicide
- • Compost or soil amendments
- • Lawn fertilizer
- • Trash/yard waste bags
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I do spring yard cleanup?
Wait until nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F and ground isn't muddy. Typically late March to early May depending on zone. Cleanup too early when soil is saturated compacts it and damages grass roots. Wait for dry, firm ground.
Ready for the Next Step?
With cleanup complete, your yard is prepped for seasonal plantings and color additions.