blog post

YEAR‑ROUND GUIDE FOR DELTONA, SANFORD & LAKE MARY HOMEOWNERS

A healthy, vibrant lawn in Sanford—and throughout Volusia & Seminole Counties—depends on timely seasonal care. From spring fertilization to winter prep, following a structured checklist ensures your turf weathers storms, heat, and cooler months with minimal stress. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your lawn tasks each season and keep your yard looking its best year‑round.

SPRING LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
SPRING LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
  • Fertilize & Soil Test – In March–April, perform a soil test to check pH and nutrient levels. Apply a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer (16‑4‑8) based on results.
  • Aerate & Overseed – Core‑aerate compacted areas to improve airflow and water penetration. Overseed bare spots with St. Augustine or Zoysia seed for optimal coverage.
  • Weed Prevention– Apply a pre‑emergent herbicide to block crabgrass, nutsedge, and other annual weeds before they sprout.
  • Mowing Reset– Begin regular mowing as grass growth resumes. Set blades to 3–4 inches for shade and moisture retention.
  • Irrigation Check – Inspect sprinkler heads, drip lines, and controllers. Adjust zones and run a test cycle to confirm even coverage.
SUMMER LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
SUMMER LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
  • WATER DEEPLY & EARLY – Continue 1–1.25 inches of irrigation per week, ideally between 4 AM–8 AM to reduce evaporation. Use a rain gauge to measure.
  • MOW CONSISTENTLY – Maintain blade height at 3–4 inches and never remove more than one‑third of the grass blade per cut.
  • FERTILIZE LIGHTLY – In July, apply a heat‑tolerant, low‑nitrogen feed (10‑0‑20) to support root strength without overstimulating top‑growth.
  • PEST & DISEASE SURVEILLANCE – Watch for chinch bugs, armyworms, and fungal spots. Treat early with spot applications or biological controls.
  • BED MAINTENANCE – Edge turf lines and refresh mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weed encroachment.
FALL LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
FALL LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
  • FALL OVERSEEDING – In October, overseed thin or damaged patches to encourage new growth in cooler temperatures.
  • FINAL FERTILIZER APPLICATION – Apply a potassium‑rich winterizer (e.g., 8‑0‑24) to promote root development and stress tolerance.
  • LEAF & DEBRIS REMOVAL – Rake or blower‑vac leaf litter biweekly to prevent smothering and fungal growth.
  • PRUNING & CLEAN‑UP – Trim back ornamental grasses and deadhead perennials to tidy beds before winter.
  • IRRIGATION ADJUSTMENT – Gradually reduce watering frequency as rainfall increases and dormancy approaches.
WINTER LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
WINTER LAWN CARE CHECKLIST
  • MINIMAL MOWING – Grass growth slows; mow only when height exceeds 4 inches, keeping blades at 3–3.5 inches.
  • SOIL AMENDMENTS – Spread a light layer of compost to improve soil structure ahead of spring.
  • EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE – Sharpen mower blades, clean filters, and service irrigation controllers for the upcoming season.
  • STORM PREP – Secure loose items, inspect drainage, and clear gutters to protect against heavy winter rains.
  • SERVICE REVIEW – Evaluate the year’s results and plan any major renovations or design changes for spring.
EXPERT PRO TIPS
EXPERT PRO TIPS
  • GROUP TASKS BY ZONE: Tackle one area at a time—lawn, beds, hardscape—to stay organized.
  • TRACK RAINFALL: Use a journal or app to log rainfall and adjust irrigation accordingly.
  • APPLY MULCH IN SPRING & FALL: Two to three inches of mulch moderates soil temperature and conserves moisture.
  • ROTATE FERTILIZER TYPES: Alternate balanced formulas with targeted feeds (e.g., winterizer) to support both roots and foliage.
  • SCHEDULE AERIFICATION EVERY OTHER YEAR: Prevent soil compaction and promote deeper roots.
WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL
WHEN TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL

If any seasonal task feels overwhelming—like aeration, overseeding, or pest control—or if you notice persistent brown patches, uneven growth, or irrigation problems, call AllStarr Rands Landscaping. Our licensed and insured team offers tailored maintenance plans across Deltona, Sanford, Lake Mary, and all of Volusia & Seminole Counties.

Call now for a free design consultation: (407) 627‑9203

Or email: allstarrrandsllc@gmail.com

Maintain a pristine, healthy yard in every season—without the guesswork!

free resources

Our free, value‑packed blogs from professionals for homeowners

COST COMPARISON: DIY VS. PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Maintaining your yard yourself can save money upfront—but it also demands time, equipment, and know‑how. Hiring a professional ensures expertise and convenience but comes with…

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR LANDSCAPE FOR HURRICANE SEASON IN VOLUSIA & SEMINOLE COUNTIES

Hurricane season in Florida runs from June through November, bringing high winds, torrential rains, and debris that can wreak havoc on your yard. Proper preparation…

IRRIGATION BEST PRACTICES TO KEEP YOUR LAWN THRIVING YEAR‑ROUND

A lush, healthy lawn depends on consistent, efficient irrigation. Under‑watering invites drought stress and patchy turf, while over‑watering leads to runoff, disease, and wasted resources….

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE!