Yard Guard’s Guide to March Lawn Care

From Snow to Spring
Montana’s snow is melting, and the promise of spring is in the air. At Yard Guard, we love our snow—but we love our lawns even more! This blog will help you understand what to expect as your lawn transitions from winter to spring. With Yard Guard’s Guide to March Lawn Care we’ll cover mowing in the spring, vole damage, and snow mold, as well as how spring fertilization can set your lawn up for success.

Snow on Your Lawn
As spring approaches, it’s important to consider how winter’s heavy snowfall has affected your lawn. Some common issues include melting out, vole damage, and snow mold.

If you didn’t know, your lawn essentially hibernates over the winter. The grass stops growing actively, turns brown, and shuts down its leaf crowns to conserve energy. Snow can act as an insulator, preventing freezing temperatures from penetrating the root system and hydrating the soil as it melts. However, prolonged snow cover can also create conditions for mold growth and rodent activity.

Vole Damage
With the heavy snowfall Montana experienced this winter, vole populations are likely thriving—which means increased damage to lawns and landscapes. These small rodents tunnel under the snow, feeding on grass and creating unsightly trails and bare patches.

While eliminating voles entirely can be challenging, there are some effective preventative measures. Protect your trees by placing mesh guards around the bases to prevent girdling. Additionally, setting mouse traps along their trails can deter them from returning. Fortunately, grass damaged by voles typically recovers with time and proper lawn care.

Snow Mold
Snow mold is a common lawn issue caused by prolonged snow cover, particularly on the north side of properties. It presents as straw-colored or pink circular patches in the grass. In severe cases, the affected areas can become matted.

This fungal disease thrives in cold, damp environments. Wet leaves, excessive mulch, and tall grass left untrimmed before winter can contribute to the problem. While fungicide treatments are available, they are most effective as a preventative measure. The best way to manage snow mold is by raking the affected areas, removing debris, and exposing the spores to air. Another common cause of snow mold is road salt from shoveled snowbanks, which can stress the grass.

First Mow of the Season
As the snow recedes and the ground begins to thaw, the first mow of the season is a crucial step in your lawn’s spring revival. Mowing helps promote even growth and removes any lingering debris. This is also a great time to seed any bare spots in your lawn.

It may be tempting to start mowing right away, but patience is key. Ensure the grass is completely dry and that temperatures are consistently around 40°F. Mowing frozen grass can break the blades, leading to dead spots. Even walking on frozen grass can leave footprints that take time to recover. Waiting for the right conditions will help your lawn transition smoothly into spring.

Fertilizing in the Spring
Finally, give your lawn the nutrients it needs with a spring fertilizer application. This will help bring the grass out of dormancy and promote strong, healthy growth. At Yard Guard, our fertilizer mixtures prioritize high-quality ingredients such as iron, kelp, molasses, humic acid, worm castings, and amino acids. Proper fertilization replenishes essential nutrients lost over the winter, strengthens root development, and enhances resistance to pests and diseases.

By following the tips in our Guide to March Lawn Care, you can create the best possible environment for your lawn to thrive throughout the spring and summer months. As March arrives and Montana’s snow melts away, it’s important to assess your lawn’s condition. Keep an eye out for signs of vole damage, snow mold, and other winter-related issues. Once the timing is right, begin with a careful first mow and consider overseeding any bare patches.

If you have any concerns or notice signs of damage, don’t hesitate to contact Yard Guard for an evaluation. We hope this blog has provided valuable insights into how snowmelt affects your lawn and the importance of spring fertilization. As your lawn awakens from its winter slumber, taking proactive steps now will ensure lush, vibrant growth for the months ahead.