Curb appeal is critical to home value.
Your yard will either add to it — or subtract from it. Follow these lawn care tips to score on the plus side of the balance sheet.
#1 Check the Sprinklers
You don't want to find out during a summer drought that your old-fashioned oscillator or in-ground irrigation system can't so much as sputter. Do a dress rehearsal now to make sure the hoses, settings, timers, and other components are functioning properly.
Related: The Smithsonian Gardener Gives His Tips on Lawn Maintenance
#2 Plant Cold-Sensitive Annuals
Once your last average frost date has passed — and the soil temp is 60 to 70 degrees — you have the all-clear to get cold-sensitive seeds like marigolds, sunflowers, and zinnias in the ground.
#3 Aerate the Lawn
Try sticking a screwdriver or pencil into your lawn: If you have to break a sweat to break the soil, it's time to aerate your lawn. By creating tiny holes, you'll give water and fertilizer a more direct route to the roots and, in turn, give them more room to grow.
#4 Buy a Lawn Mower
Stores will kick off the mowing season with big sales in April. And, if you can stomach the thought, buy a snow blower, too; retailers will be saying "buh-bye" to winter with deep discounts on any still in stock.