When Will Lawns Turn Green on Long Island?

Lawns are beginning to turn green again. A few warm, sunny days earlier this month were enough to wake up some turf. In general, lawns begin the green-up process when daytime temperatures consistently reach 50-65*F. Even more important are soil temperatures – once they reach 50*F or higher, grass really starts to respond. Keep in mind that some varieties green up faster than others. 

Ryegrass greens up the fastest.

Tall fescue takes a few extra weeks.

Kentucky Bluegrass is typically the last to come out of dormancy and may not fully green-up until May.

Typically, the biggest change happens during the last few weeks of April. By late April or early May, grass growth usually picks up enough that regular mowing becomes necessary. 

To prepare your lawn:

1. Clear away leaves and debris.
2. Rake out dead or thin areas and apply seed as needed. 
3. Power rake if there is excessive thatch.
4. Core aerate heavy (clay) or compacted soils.
5. Check pH and apply lime if needed.

In April

• Test your soil pH and apply lime if needed. Long Island soils are often acidic, and lime helps raise pH so you lawn can make better use of fertilizer.
• Apply a quality slow-release fertilizer to support steady spring growth. 
• Use a crabgrass pre-emergent (or a fertilizer that includes one) to help prevent crabgrass before it starts. 

April is the ideal time to activate your sprinkler system and make the necessary repairs. While frequent spring rain usually means you wont need to start watering right away it’s important to make sure your system is ready when the weather turns warmer and drier. Rain Rich is currently scheduling spring start-up appointments, so I recommend reserving your appointment now. 

A healthy, attractive landscape is a valuable investment. Keeping your sprinkler system properly maintained is far more cost-effective than replacing damaged lawn, shrubs, or trees later in the season. 

To schedule your spring sprinkler start-up, call our office at 631-423-2211 or click here. To learn more, please visit our website at www.rainrich.com. We look forward to serving you this season!