Spring Prep Guide: Essential Tips for a Thriving North Texas Lawn and Garden

Spring in North Texas is the perfect time to prepare your lawn and garden for the growing season. This guide provides practical steps for homeowners to nurture their landscape, ensuring it thrives as temperatures rise.

Preparing the Soil for Texas-Specific Needs

In North Texas, soil quality varies, but it often requires amendments to support healthy plant growth. A soil test from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service can provide valuable insights into nutrient levels, pH balance, and organic matter. Adding compost or organic fertilizer based on test results helps improve soil health, retain moisture, and support root growth. Studies have shown that soil with higher organic content retains moisture better, which is crucial in Texas’s warm climate.

Selecting Fertilizers for Maximum Growth

Fertilizing in early spring encourages robust growth for lawns, shrubs, and flowering plants. Opt for slow-release, organic fertilizers, as these gradually nourish plants without overwhelming them. Texas-native plants typically require less fertilizer than non-native species, making them a sustainable, low-cost option.

A University of Texas study highlights that native Texas plants, such as blackfoot daisy and Texas sage, adapt well to local soil and climate, requiring minimal fertilizers. This makes them a great choice for eco-friendly landscaping that reduces long-term maintenance.

Proper Lawn Care Techniques to Reduce Watering

Overseeding with drought-resistant grasses like Bermuda or buffalo grass minimizes water requirements in the summer. Bermuda grass, for example, requires up to 50% less water than traditional fescue lawns, making it a smart choice for Texas. Mowing to the correct height—typically 2 to 3 inches for warm-season grasses—helps reduce evaporation and keeps the lawn healthier. Additionally, dethatching and aerating your lawn in the spring enhances water absorption and root growth.

By following these spring prep steps, homeowners can establish a resilient, low-maintenance lawn and garden ready to thrive in Texas’s climate. Need help? Request a consultation from our landscape design team.