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Record-Breaking Warmth: What It Means for Your Lawn
This week, Omaha experienced an unprecedented burst of warmth, with temperatures soaring to a record-breaking 70 degrees in February. While it may be tempting for homeowners to dive into yard work and spring preparations, local experts urge caution. The message is clear: hold off on your lawn care practices for now.
Understanding Soil Moisture Measurements
John Fech, an extension educator from UNL, advises using a screwdriver or similar tool to check the moisture of your soil before making any decisions about watering. Understanding where moisture levels stand is crucial in determining whether your lawn actually needs additional watering. If your tool pulls out muddy, your lawn is likely hydrated enough. But if it comes out relatively dry, it might be time to hand-water a few problem areas, particularly if you anticipate snow or frost still in the forecast.
Timing is Everything: Lawn Care Professionals Weigh In
For those considering a first mow of the season, Owen Kobes from Owen’s Mowing in Elkhorn cautions against it. The ground might be too soft from recent moisture, and cutting when grass is still recovering can cause more harm than good. Instead, homeowners should wait until they see new green grass growth in the upcoming weeks before initiating mowing. This typically happens once nighttime lows consistently stay above freezing in early spring.
Preparing for a Healthy Lawn: Tasks to Tackle Now
Since it’s too early for most outdoor lawn tasks, Kobes recommends setting your sights on other chores in preparation for the full swing of spring. Cleaning out the garage, checking your lawn mower, and ensuring all your tools are in working order are proactive steps homeowners can take. Instead of just waiting, you could consider exploring local gardens or taking a planting class to keep that gardening itch at bay until outdoor work is feasible.
Avoiding Damage to Tender Plants
It’s essential to know that even as plants like hyacinths and tulips begin to bloom, unnecessary disturbances such as digging up and transplanting certain plants can lead to stressing those delicate roots. Fech suggests that should these tender plants heave due to fluctuating temperatures, gently pressing the plants back into the soil and adding a layer of mulch can offer the protection needed to withstand further temperature changes.
The Benefits of Early Planning for Spring Lawn Care
Experts suggest that Omaha homeowners should begin planning their lawn care in late February to early March. Proper planning and research allow homeowners to align their lawn care activities harmoniously with the local weather. Assess winter damage, order supplies, and prepare for necessary treatments like fertilization and aeration, which are best executed when grass begins to show green tips in the ground.
Navigating Omaha's Unique Climate Conditions
In Omaha's climate, the average last frost occurs around mid-April, and soil temperatures must reach around 50°F for optimal grass growth. Understanding the soil and weather conditions is key to preventing weed overgrowth and improving overall lawn health.
Considerations for Lawn Fertilization Services
As spring approaches and homeowners consider lawn fertilization and weed control services near them, it's critical to select suppliers and professionals familiar with Omaha's unique climate conditions. Factors like nitrogen content, timing, and specific weed populations in the area can affect the choice of products. It's worth taking time to research local companies that offer tailored services to your lawn's needs, ensuring a lush green lawn when temperatures fully rise.
Action Items for Omaha Homeowners
As you prepare for lawn care in Omaha, remember not to rush into actions driven by recent warmth. Take advantage of this early season to clean up your tools, plan for lawn care, and research quality fertilization options. When the time is right, your proactive approach will pay dividends in a lush and healthy lawn.
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