The Homeowner’s Checklist for Spring Yard Prep

Spring is finally here, and if you’re like most homeowners, you’re itching to get outside. After months of cold, rain, or both, your yard is probably looking a little tired. Maybe there are leaves still stuck in corners, plants that didn’t survive the winter, or patches of grass that never bounced back. And if you’re planning to entertain, garden, or just relax outdoors, now’s the time to get things in shape.

The good news? You don’t have to overhaul everything. A few simple steps can make your yard look fresh, clean, and ready for the season. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or someone who’s been through many spring cleanups, this guide will walk you through the must-do tasks—without the overwhelm.

Here’s your go-to checklist for spring yard prep. Let’s keep it simple, stress-free, and worth your time.

Check Your Irrigation System

Before anything else, make sure your sprinkler system is doing what it’s supposed to. A lot can happen during the winter—sprinkler heads can break, nozzles can clog, and pipes can crack. You don’t want to waste water or leave parts of your lawn dry. Start by turning the system on and checking each zone. Watch for uneven spray, leaks, or areas where water pools.

If you spot issues and aren’t sure how to fix them, don’t stress. A professional landscaping service can handle inspections, repairs, and upgrades. It’s a good idea to let the pros deal with things like water pressure problems or electrical issues in the system. Fixing things now can save you a headache when summer hits.

Clear Debris and Tidy Up

Once your sprinklers are sorted, it’s time to clean up. Start by walking around your yard and collecting branches, twigs, and leftover leaves. These can block sunlight and make it harder for your grass to grow.

Next, focus on your garden beds. Pull out any weeds and leftover dead plants from last season. Trim back shrubs and bushes that have grown too wild. If you have perennials, check if they need to be divided or cut back. Keeping things neat now will make planting later much easier.

Refresh Garden Beds and Mulch

After you clear the beds, give them a fresh start. Turn the soil with a small shovel or rake. This loosens it up and helps roots breathe. Then, add mulch. Mulch helps keep weeds down and holds in moisture, especially during warmer months. Choose a color and texture that fits your home’s style.

Before you lay down new mulch, make sure to weed the area and smooth out the surface. Try to keep mulch a few inches away from tree trunks and plant stems. This helps prevent rot and lets air circulate properly.

Inspect Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting makes a big difference, especially if you enjoy your yard after dark. Spring is a good time to check that everything still works. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean the light covers. Dust, cobwebs, and dirt can dim your lights over time.

If your current setup feels outdated or uneven, consider an upgrade. Energy-efficient LED lighting is a great option. It lasts longer and uses less power. You can also reposition fixtures to highlight certain features like flower beds or walkways.

Test and Treat the Lawn

After a long winter, your lawn might need a little TLC. Start with a soil test. This tells you if your lawn has the right nutrients and pH levels. You can get a kit online or from a local garden center.

Once you know what your lawn needs, pick the right fertilizer and apply it early in the season. This gives your grass the boost it needs to grow thick and green. If you see bare patches, spread some seed and water it regularly. Spring is a great time to seed because temperatures are mild, and rainfall is usually more frequent.

Plan New Plantings

Want to add more color or grow something new this year? Spring is the perfect time to plan. Think about where you get sun, where you get shade, and how much space you have. Choose plants that match your conditions. This helps them thrive with less effort.

Cool-season flowers like pansies or snapdragons do well early in spring. You can also start herbs like parsley, chives, and cilantro. Make a rough plan so you don’t overcrowd beds or plant things too close to each other. A little spacing goes a long way.

Inspect for Drainage Issues

After it rains, check your yard for puddles or soggy areas. Standing water isn’t just annoying—it can damage your lawn and invite pests. It can also lead to mold or erosion over time.

Look at your gutters and downspouts. Make sure water is flowing away from your home. If needed, add splash blocks or extensions. For bigger drainage issues, you might need to regrade part of your lawn or install a drainage system. Solving it now prevents bigger issues later.

Tidy Patios and Walkways

Winter leaves behind dirt, moss, and grime. Use a broom or pressure washer to clean off your patio, deck, or walkway. This brightens up the space and gets rid of slippery spots.

While you’re at it, check for loose pavers or cracked boards. Fix these before they turn into safety hazards. If you have outdoor furniture, give it a quick wipe and look for damage. This is also a good time to check your grill and make sure it’s ready for use.

Spring yard prep doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small, focus on what matters most, and do a little at a time. Your yard doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be ready for you to enjoy it.

Doing things like checking your sprinkler system, clearing out beds, and refreshing mulch can make a big difference. If something feels outside your skill level, don’t hesitate to get help. Before long, your yard will be a clean, comfortable space where you’ll want to spend more time. And that’s really what spring prep is all about—getting ready to enjoy the outdoors again.