Want a lush lawn for summer? Don't skip this one crucial step in May
To achieve a lush, healthy lawn for summer, homeowners should perform scarification in May, a process that removes dead grass, thatch, and moss to allow better absorption of air, water, and nutrients. This deep-cleaning step is crucial after winter dormancy, especially as grass enters its active growth phase. Proper timing, tools, and follow-up care like seeding and fertilizing enhance results. Skipping this task may lead to poor lawn health and reduced resilience.
- ▪Scarification involves removing thatch, moss, and debris from the lawn to improve soil aeration and nutrient absorption.
- ▪May is the ideal time for scarification because soil has warmed and grass is entering its active growth phase.
- ▪A thick layer of thatch can block water and nutrients, leading to a spongy lawn and increased disease risk.
- ▪After scarifying, experts recommend collecting debris, seeding bare patches, and applying fertilizer for optimal summer growth.
- ▪Tools for scarification include a springbok rake for small lawns or a powered scarifier for larger areas.
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Home Outdoors Gardening Want a lush lawn for summer? Don't skip this one crucial step in May News By Cynthia Lawrence published 28 April 2026 Do this one essential gardening task for greener grass When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Shutterstock) Copy link Facebook X Reddit Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter With summer fast approaching, there's nothing more satisfying than having a lush, green lawn to enjoy, especially if you're hosting backyard gatherings.And while you might have taken steps to prepare your lawn during the winter months, the cold snap can affect the growth of your grass.
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