Water Deeply—Not Daily

With spring rains fading, watering becomes key. But it’s not just about frequency—it’s about watering deeply:

• Aim for 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week (including rainfall)

• Water early in the morning to prevent disease

• Deep watering encourages stronger, drought-resistant roots

What’s more, investing in a sprinkler timer can help automate the process.

Test and Feed the Soil

A lush lawn starts from the ground up. That means testing soil and applying the right spring fertilizer:

• Use a soil test kit to check pH and nutrient levels

• Choose a balanced, slow-release spring fertilizer

• Avoid overfeeding—too much nitrogen can stress grass as summer heat approaches

May is the ideal window to fine-tune feeding before it gets too hot.

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Repair Bare or Thinning Spots

Noticed some patchy or thinning areas in the lawn? Don’t worry—May is a prime time to repair them with fresh grass seed. The soil is still cool and moist from spring, which creates the ideal conditions for seed germination and healthy root development.

Here’s how to bring those spots back to life:

• Rake and loosen the soil to remove dead grass, debris, and thatch. This helps expose the soil so seeds can make solid contact.

• Add a layer of topsoil or compost to improve seed-to-soil contact and give the new grass a nutrient-rich start.

• Spread the seed evenly, making sure to cover the entire bare area without overcrowding.

• Water lightly and consistently, keeping the soil moist (but not soaked) until new grass is fully established—this usually takes a few weeks.

What’s more, choosing the same grass variety as the existing lawn ensures the new growth blends in seamlessly, preventing a patchy or uneven look.

Repairing bare spots now helps create a uniform, dense lawn that resists weeds and thrives all summer long.

Aerate if Necessary

Sometimes, a lawn may start to feel soft underfoot or look tired and patchy. That’s often a sign of soil compaction, especially in high-traffic areas like footpaths, play zones, or pet spots. When soil gets compacted, it becomes harder for air, water, and nutrients to reach the grass roots—which can seriously stunt growth.

Aeration is the fix.

• Use a core aerator to remove small plugs of soil from the lawn.

• This process opens up the ground, allowing the roots to breathe, soak up moisture, and absorb nutrients more effectively.

• What’s more, aeration encourages deeper root growth, which is essential for a healthy, drought-resistant lawn.

While many gardeners prefer to aerate in early spring or fall, May lawn care tips like this still make sense—especially if the lawn is showing signs of stress. May’s mild weather and active grass growth help the turf recover quickly.

Pro tip: If planning to seed afterward, water consistently until the new grass is fully established. And always choose the same grass variety that matches the existing lawn for a uniform, lush look.

Keep an Eye Out for Pests

May marks the beginning of active insect life in the soil, and unfortunately, that can spell trouble for a healthy lawn. As temperatures warm, grubs—the larvae of beetles—begin feeding on grassroots just beneath the surface. If not addressed early, these pests can cause serious damage.

Here’s what to look for and do:

• Watch for signs of grub damage, such as thinning grass, brown patches, or turf that lifts easily like a rug due to severed roots.

• If those signs are present, consider applying a preventive grub control product. It’s much easier to stop grubs early before they grow large and more destructive.

• Natural solutions can also be effective. Encourage birds, which naturally feed on insects, or introduce beneficial nematodes, microscopic worms that hunt and destroy grubs in the soil without harming your lawn or pets.

Staying alert now helps prevent major pest problems later in the season—and keeps the lawn thriving all summer long.

Level and Topdress Uneven Lawns

Spring weather often leaves behind a few surprises—uneven patches, small dips, or compacted soil that make mowing tricky and the lawn look untidy. May is the ideal time to topdress, giving the grass a smoother, more polished appearance while improving overall soil health.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Use a balanced mix of compost and sand to fill in low spots and correct minor bumps. Compost enriches the soil, while sand ensures better drainage and structure.

• Spread a thin layer, about ¼ inch, across the surface using a shovel or broadcast spreader. Avoid smothering the grass—this layer should be light enough for blades to peek through.

• Rake the material evenly, gently working it into the turf. This promotes better airflow, drainage, and nutrient absorption.

• Combine with overseeding in thin or bare areas to boost lawn density and encourage even growth.

What’s more, using a topdressing tool like a lawn level rake helps distribute the material quickly and accurately, saving time and reducing strain on the back. It’s an especially smart move for larger lawns or anyone aiming for professional-level results.

Topdressing not only evens out the surface—it also supports microbial life in the soil, improves water retention, and strengthens root systems. Over time, this simple step can dramatically enhance lawn performance throughout the summer season.