Spring Lawn Cleanup After a Snowy Winter

A north-central Massachusetts homeowner missed fall cleanup due to early snow. They want to know spring damage risks and efficient leaf removal.

Winter Damage to Expect

• Vole runways – Mice tunnel under snow, eating grass. Rake damaged areas; overseed if severe.
• Snow mold – Gray/pink matted patches. Rake, fertilize, reseed dead spots. Prevent with proper fall fertilization, thatch management, and drainage.

Spring Action Plan

1. Rake leaves/debris ASAP—sunlight reaches soil, speeds recovery.
2. Avoid traffic on frosty grass.
3. Mow at 2 inches final height next fall; clean up leaves before snow.

Prevention for Next Year

• Use slow-release N fertilizer except final winterizer.
• Aerate to manage thatch.
• Prune dense border vegetation for air flow.

Early spring cleanup is the single best thing for winter-damaged lawns.