Get Your Property Ready for Spring
The complete zone-by-zone checklist covering trees, lawn, beds, hardscape, and safety - organized by priority for Mid-Michigan homeowners.
What's Inside
- 7 inspection zones covering every area of your property
- Priority-ranked tasks so you know what to tackle first
- Michigan-specific timing for fertilizer, pruning, and planting
- Pro vs. DIY guidance for each task
- Week-by-week schedule from early April through May
Guide Preview
Zone 1: Trees (Priority: HIGH)
Week 1 tasks: Walk property and look up - check for broken, hanging, or cracked branches Check trunks for splits from ice/wind damage Look for leaning trees or root heave at the base Note any trees that aren't leafing out on schedule Check evergreens for winter burn (browning needles) Schedule pruning for any structural issues found Call a pro if: Any branch over 2" diameter is damaged, any tree is leaning, or you see fungal growth at the base....
Zone 2: Stumps (Priority: MEDIUM-HIGH)
Inspect old stumps for mushroom growth (fungal activity = termite risk) Check for new shoots growing from old stumps Look for termite activity - sawdust piles near stumps Check if soil around stumps is sinking Schedule stump grinding before termite season (May-July) Why spring: Ground is workable, termites aren't active yet, and you can plant grass over the ground area before summer....
Zone 3: Lawn (Priority: MEDIUM)
Early April: Look for vole/mouse trails (raised grass tunnels) Check for salt damage along walks and driveway Note winter-killed areas (brown turf that doesn't green up) First mow once grass reaches 3 inches Mid-April: Apply pre-emergent crabgrass control Test soil pH (ideal: 6.0-7.0) Check thatch layer (over ½ inch needs dethatching) Late April: First slow-release fertilizer application Begin regular mowing schedule (never cut more than ⅓ of blade height) Overseed any bare/thin areas...
Zone 4: Beds & Landscaping (Priority: MEDIUM)
Remove fallen leaves and winter debris from beds Cut back perennials and ornamental grasses Pull winter weeds before they seed Edge beds for clean definition Apply 2-3 inches fresh mulch (not touching plant stems) Check shrubs for winter dieback and rabbit/deer damage Prune dead or crossing branches on shrubs Plan new plantings (native Michigan species = lower maintenance)...
Zone 5: Hardscape & Safety (Priority: HIGH)
Check walkways and driveways for freeze-thaw cracks Inspect fence posts for leaning or rot Clean gutters of leaves and debris Ensure downspouts direct water 6+ feet from foundation Test all exterior lighting Check sprinkler heads for plow/frost damage Walk property during rain - note where water pools Verify ground slopes away from foundation (6" in 10')...
Get Instant Access
Enter your name and email to unlock the full guide.