March Madness is here-on the court and in your lawn! | |
|
Signs of Spring
Warmer temperatures, college basketball, green beer, and—of course—green grass! As we kick off the 2025 season, let’s take a quick look back.
In 2024 we started the year with a wet winter and a relatively mild but warm spring and summer. In the early Fall, we had some reasonable rainfall but then had a drought that lasted for over 30 days. Mother Nature was not the kindest to us last year. But, spring is all about a new beginnings. Now, with daffodils starting to emerge and soil temperatures hovering around 45°F, it’s time to prepare for the season ahead.
Why does soil temperature matter?
Soil temperature affects grass growth, weed control, and nutrient absorption. Cool-season grasses germinate at 50-65°F, while warm-season grasses need 65-70°F. Proper timing for pre-emergents, aeration, and fertilization depends on soil temperature. Monitoring it ensures a healthier, greener lawn year-round.
Crabgrass begins to germinate at 55°F(Soil Temperature), so our first priority will be applying pre-emergent to keep it under control before it starts. Read on to learn more about what to expect during your first service of the year.
We’re excited for another season of creating thick, healthy, and weed-free lawns! And don’t forget—after each service, you’ll receive an email with details on what was done and any recommendations from your technician. Be sure to check it!
| |
WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR FIRST SERVICE OF 2024 | |
|
Early Spring Treatments Are Underway!
We are 2 weeks into our first round of applications, and we’ll have all properties serviced by April 7th. The main focus right now is pre-emergent weed control to get ahead of summer annuals like crabgrass. Since crabgrass germinates once soil temperatures reach 55°F for three consecutive days, we’re applying a industry-leading pre-emergent, to keep it in check before it starts.
You can also expect to have your first fertilizer done in conjunction with this application. This is very important as this will help increase turf density, root development, and green up!
For broadleaf weeds like henbit, chickweed, and bittercress, we’ll be treating as long as ambient temperatures are above 50°F. If temps stay below that threshold, weed control becomes ineffective, and we’ll address them in the next round.
If you have any questions about your service schedule or treatments, feel free to reach out to our office—we’re happy to help!
| |
Broadleaf Weed Identification | |
|
Henbit
This broadleaf weeds most defining feature is its purple flower. It is considered a winter annual and typically germinates in the late fall and/or over winter. When temps are above 50 degrees, our weed control is very effective at controlling this unsightly weed.
| |
|
Common Chickweed
This broadleaf weed is one of the most commonly seen broadleaf weeds in the spring. Its most defining feature is its "mouse ear" looking leaves and produces at white seed head. When temps are above 50 degrees, our weed control is superlative in control.
| |
|
Hairy Bittercress
This broadleaf weed can be easily overlooked prior to it reaching maturity. Once mature though, it stands out amongst a crowd quite literally with its very tall growing stems producing a white seed head that explodes with even the slightest bit of breeze! Our weed control is once again, very effective once temps are appropriate.
| |
|
The Importance of Overseeding for Tall Fescue Lawns
Tall Fescue, the recommended grass for Maryland’s climate, grows upright rather than spreading sideways. Because of this, we recommend overseeding every 2-3 years—or annually for thinner lawns—to maintain density. The best time to seed is in the fall, as spring seeding comes with challenges, including competition from weeds and crabgrass.
Spring seeding should only be considered in shady areas where weed pressure is lower. Pre-emergent and seeding do not mix.
Fall seeding is the better option. When the temperatures start declining and the risk of heat stress on the grass dissipates it gives the young grass time to mature.
If you’ve done any seeding on your own, please let us know! This helps us adjust your pre-emergent application schedule to avoid any conflicts.
| |  |
|
Is Your Mower Ready for Spring?
Before the season kicks off, make sure your mower blades are sharp for a clean, healthy cut. Dull blades tear the grass, leading to stress and disease.
When mowing, cut only the top third and maintain a height of 3.5”–4”. This helps:
- Suppress weeds like crabgrass by blocking sunlight
- Encourage deeper roots for better drought resistance
- Strengthen your lawn to handle summer stress
Mowing at the right height is one of the easiest ways to improve your lawn’s health this season!
If you are on a mowing schedule, please let us know what your regular mow day is! This allows us to serve you better. Thank you!
| | |
|
Soil Testing: The Foundation of a Healthy Lawn
There’s a saying: “It’s better to plant a $2 tree in a $25 hole than a $25 tree in a $2 hole.” The same applies to your lawn—healthy soil is the key to strong, vibrant grass.
A soil test provides valuable insight into pH levels, nutrient content, organic matter, and specific fertilization needs. The University of Maryland recommends testing every three years to ensure your soil is balanced and optimized for plant growth.
If you’re interested in a soil test, we offer this service for $40. Contact us to schedule yours today!
| |
|
An Old Wives’ Tale: Timing Pre-Emergent Applications
There’s a common misbelief that the best time to apply pre-emergent for crabgrass is just before forsythia blooms drop. While this may have been a useful guide in the past, it’s not the most reliable method!
Crabgrass germination is actually triggered by soil temperature, not plant blooms. It begins when the ground reaches a consistent 55–64°F, making soil monitoring a much more accurate way to time pre-emergent applications effectively.
| | |
|
Customer Satisfaction, we care as much as you do!
Here at Lawn Doctor we pride ourselves in customer service. We are the industry leader in online reviews and customer satisfaction. It is our goal to provide you with legendary service every time we step foot on your lawn.
| | |
|
REFERRAL PROGRAM
You receive $25 and the referred account gets a special discount!
| | | |
|
The Power of Social Media | |
Stay connected with us on social media for expert lawn care tips, seasonal reminders, and special offers! Follow along for the latest updates on how to keep your in lawn in tip-top shape year-round.
Don't miss out-follow us today!
| |
|
INGREDIENTS
- 3-4 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 10 cups of water (or enough to cover beef)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 3-4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 6-8 small potatoes (Yukon gold or red), halved
- 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp black peppercorns (optional)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra flavor)
INSTRUCTIONS
-
Prepare the Beef: Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt.
-
Cook the Beef: In a large pot, place the brisket, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and the spice packet. Add enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2.5-3 hours (about 50 minutes per pound) until fork-tender.
-
Add Vegetables: Add carrots and potatoes to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes.
-
Cook the Cabbage: Add cabbage wedges and cook for another 10-15 minutes until tender.
-
Serve: Remove the corned beef, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain. Serve with the cooked vegetables and some of the flavorful broth!
| | | | |
