Spring Has Sprung — And So Has Your Grass: A Warm-Weather Lawn Survival Guide for Sarasota & Manatee Counties
By Westfall's Lawn and Pest Control
Ah, springtime in Florida. That magical window between “finally, no more cold fronts” and “okay, it’s starting to feel toasty out here.” It’s when locals get outside more, plants start blooming, and your lawn? Oh yeah — it’s wide awake and ready to grow.
If you’re working with warm-season grasses like St. Augustine, Bahia, or Zoysia, April and May are the key months for turning your yard from “meh” to “manicured paradise.” But don’t worry — Westfall's Lawn and Pest Control has your back with some lighthearted but legit advice on keeping that lawn in top shape this spring.
Your Grass Is Waking Up… and It’s Hungry
Warm-season grasses take a nap over Florida’s mild winter months. But by spring? It’s like someone hit the snooze button too many times — and now it’s rushing to grow.
By April, soil temperatures warm up (around 65°F and climbing), and your lawn is ready for action.
What to do:
Fertilize with a slow-release, nitrogen-rich blend suited for your specific grass type. Think of it as breakfast for your lawn.
Avoid over-fertilizing. Yes, it’ll grow fast — but so will your mowing schedule.
Water Wisely (Your Lawn Will Thank You)
Florida spring rains are helpful, but they don’t always arrive when we need them. Pair that with rising temps, and it’s important to give your grass the right amount of hydration.
What to do:
Water for recommended times.
Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and avoid fungal issues.
Check your irrigation system for leaks, clogged heads, or zones that think they’re watering the sidewalk.
Pests & Weeds: The Uninvited Guests
When your grass starts growing, so do the things trying to ruin it — like chinch bugs, mole crickets, fire ants, and weeds with wild names like goosegrass and dollarweed.
What to do:
Keep an eye out for patchy areas, odd discoloration, or signs of insect activity.
Use targeted pest treatments — or call the pros at Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control for a safe, effective solution.
Time to Dust Off the Mower
Spring is when your lawn starts growing like it’s got something to prove. Regular mowing keeps it healthy and looking great.
What to do:
Raise your mower blades — St. Augustine, for example, prefers to be cut at 3.5 to 4 inches.
Mow regularly, and avoid cutting more than 1/3 of the grass height at a time.
Springtime Lawn Don’ts
Even with the best intentions, a few common mistakes can set your yard back.
Don’t scalp the lawn (cutting it too short). That stresses the grass and invites weeds.
Don’t fertilize too early. Let the grass wake up naturally before feeding it.
Don’t forget shady areas. They may need different care — less water and higher mowing height.
Final Thoughts: Lawn Care Can Be a Lot — But You’re Not Alone
We get it — Florida lawns are a little high-maintenance. But when they’re thriving, they turn your yard into your favorite part of the house.
This spring, give your lawn the TLC it deserves — and if you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help. From fertilization to pest control, Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control has been proudly serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties for 20 years.
Let us handle the science, while you enjoy the sunshine.