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Living in Fresno means your lawn care needs change with the seasons. From the heat of summer to the mild chill of winter, each period requires a tailored approach to keep your yard healthy and vibrant. Use this comprehensive calendar as a guide to maintain your lawn year-round, and remember that adjustments may be needed based on your grass type, soil conditions, and microclimate.

Spring (March – May)

March:

• Begin regular mowing as grass growth accelerates.
• Test soil pH and nutrient levels.
• Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to keep summer weeds at bay.
• Inspect your irrigation system and repair any winter damage.

April:

• Adjust your mower to a height of 2.5–3 inches.
• Apply a balanced spring fertilizer to jump-start growth.
• Establish a regular watering schedule.
• Overseed any bare or thinning patches to encourage even turf.

May:

• Increase watering frequency as temperatures rise.
• Keep an eye out for pest activity.
• Trim around sprinkler heads and other obstacles for even coverage.
• Use post-emergent weed control if weeds begin to appear.

Summer (June – August)

June:

• Raise the mowing height to 3–3.5 inches to protect the roots during heat stress.
• Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth and drought resilience.
• Monitor your lawn for signs of pest damage and apply summer fertilizer only if necessary.

July:

• Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and ensure moisture reaches the roots.
• Maintain the higher mowing height and check regularly for signs of drought stress.
• Treat for grubs and other pests common in the heat.

August:

• Continue deep watering practices.
• Watch for fungal issues like brown patch, which can arise in humid conditions.
• Keep up with regular mowing, and start planning for fall aeration and overseeding to repair any summer damage.

Fall (September – November)

September:

• Gradually reduce your mowing height to prepare for cooler weather.
• Core aerate your lawn to relieve compaction and improve soil health.
• Overseed thin or damaged areas and apply a fall fertilizer to promote root growth.

October:

• Keep mowing regularly, and promptly rake fallen leaves to avoid smothering the grass.
• Reduce watering frequency as temperatures drop.
• Apply a winterizing fertilizer late in the month to fortify the lawn for colder months.

November:

• Give your lawn its final mow of the season and complete any remaining leaf removal.
• Winterize your irrigation system to prevent freeze damage.
• Apply a final round of weed control if needed to keep your lawn clean through winter.

Winter (December – February)

December:

• Remove debris and fallen branches that can suffocate your grass.
• Limit foot traffic on frosted or dormant lawns to prevent damage.
• Continue occasional leaf removal and perform routine maintenance on your lawn equipment.

January:

• Monitor for winter weeds and plan your spring lawn care strategy.
• Avoid walking on frozen grass to prevent compaction and injury.
• Service and prepare your lawn equipment for the upcoming season.

February:

• Begin prepping for spring by cleaning up any remaining winter debris.
• Plan for a pre-emergent herbicide application to stop weeds before they start.
• Schedule any necessary irrigation system maintenance to ensure smooth operation when warmer weather returns.

Professional Care and Climate Considerations

While this calendar offers a robust DIY framework, some tasks are best handled by professionals. Consider calling in experts for core aeration, large-scale overseeding, pest control applications, irrigation system maintenance, or disease treatment. Fresno's unique climate—with hot, dry summers and mild winters—requires careful irrigation management, strategic seasonal care, and adjustments during drought conditions.

When to Call The Experienced Gardener

If you need seasonal lawn assessments, professional treatment applications, irrigation system setup, custom care plans for your specific grass type, or help with emergency lawn care issues, The Experienced Gardener is here to help. Our experts understand Fresno’s challenges and can create a personalized care strategy that ensures your lawn stays lush and healthy throughout the year.

By following this seasonal calendar and incorporating both DIY efforts and professional care when needed, you can maintain a beautiful, resilient lawn in Fresno. For a plan tailored to your property’s unique needs, contact The Experienced Gardener today and take the first step toward a year-round thriving yard.