As we approach the mad rush of work beginning this spring, it’s important to remember temperature plays a pivotal role. Temperature determines when and where your grass grows. Understanding how temperature influences grass behavior—especially during early spring—helps you nurture a healthier, more resilient lawn. Follow these guidelines and cultural practices that encourage turf growth in Spring.
Temperature & Cool Season Grasses
Cool Season grasses don’t start growing until the soil temperature consistently rises above 50°F. As weather cools in late fall, these grasses enter a dormant phase to conserve energy and protect themselves from freezing temperatures. During this time, metabolic processes slow down and growth halts. The grass typically turns brown or straw-like as it conserves resources, preparing for the cold months ahead. Now, as we begin to exit this dormancy period, it’s essential to understand how to care for your grass to help it recover and thrive during the early spring
Early Spring Temperatures and Growth
During early spring, when temperatures are cooler, grass plants focus a significant amount of energy on root development. Root growth is typically more active at lower soil temperatures and continues through the cooler months. New crown development usually begins when the soil temperature reaches around 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C). In early spring, crowns begin to develop and produce new shoots and roots. Therefore, turf grass is fragile and in the process of anchoring itself into the soil. Mechanical surface level activity can damage the new crowns, leading to stress or even die back.
Dethatching Damage
Dethatching or heavy raking can pull up or cut into the crown of the grass as it removes the organic material. Therefore, lawns and fields experience delayed establishment or grass dies. It should be avoided, particularly in the early spring, until the lawn is well established. Perform dethatching only when thatch has reached a thickness that could harm the lawn, and always consider the health of the grass before proceeding. In an organically managed lawn, it is rarely needed. As such, consider using leaf blowers to remove leaves and other debris.
Aerating in the Spring
Aerating a lawn or athletic field too early in the spring can also damage the crowns of newly sprouted grass. Mechanical aerators, especially those with heavy tines or spikes, can pull up or disrupt the shallow roots and crowns of young grass, therefore impeding their ability to establish a healthy root system. Notably, only aerate when the soil is firm enough to support the equipment without causing further compaction or damage.
Field and Lawn Compaction in Spring
The crowns of new grass are particularly vulnerable to compaction, which can suffocate the roots and stunt growth. Excessive walking or driving heavy equipment can compress the soil, making it harder for grass crowns to develop properly. This can lead to weak growth, patches where the grass dies, and poor overall turf health. Therefore, minimize traffic in early spring when soils are still wet or cold. Additionally, consider also using lighter equipment that won’t stress young grass.
Early Spring Mowing
You also want to be careful when it comes to your first cut of the season. Mowing too early, or cutting too much of the grass blade in a single pass, can damage the delicate crowns. Damaging crowns leads to stress or even dieback. Before the grass has had a chance to establish fully, mowing can break or tear the tender grass blades, including those at the crown. As a result, future growth and development is stunted. It’s important to use sharp blades and aim to remove no more than one-third of the grass blade height to avoid putting undue stress on the crowns. Lastly, your first cut shouldn’t occur until the grass is at a height of 3-4”.
These early spring months are crucial to develop your cool-season grass. By understanding the growth stages and avoiding activities that can harm the delicate new growth, you’ll help your lawn recover from dormancy and set the stage for a healthy, thriving turf throughout the growing season. Remember to be gentle with your grass, minimize disturbances, and allow it the time it needs to establish strong roots and healthy crowns.
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