Seasonal Lawn Care Schedule for Clover and Crabgrass Control in New England

Early Spring (April, 60s°F, daffodils blooming)

• Lime: 40 lbs/1,000 sq ft (pelletized).
• Pre-emergent + fertilizer (Scotts Halts) OR organic: corn gluten meal 20 lbs/1,000 sq ft.

Late Spring (June)

• Broadleaf weed control + fertilizer (Scotts Turf Builder +2).
• Apply to damp weeds. No water 24–48 hrs. Then 15 min irrigation.
• Organic: hand-pull clover; corn gluten does not control existing broadleaf.

Fall (Mid–Late September) — Most Important

• Core aerate.
• Lime: 40 lbs/1,000 sq ft.
• Fertilize (Scotts Turf Builder, no weed control).
• Overseed: sun/shade mix (fine fescues for shade).
• Keep moist until germination. Taper watering as cools.

Watering Rule

Before 2 PM. Not on rainy days. Deep, infrequent once established.

Local Nursery Partnership

Buy from local garden center—they know your soil, weeds, timing. Free advice with purchase.

Expected Result

90%+ improvement in one year. Clover eliminated by broadleaf control + density. Crabgrass prevented by pre-emergent + fall density.