Reviving a Neglected Northern Lawn: A Complete Care Calendar for Montreal

Immediate Actions

1. Core aerate (rent machine, share cost with neighbor).
2. Soil test via Cooperative Extension.
3. Apply winterizer fertilizer (31-3-8) late October–mid November per label.

Ongoing Cultural Practices

• Mow: 2.5–3 in, same height all year, frequency so ≤1/3 blade removed.
• Water: Deep, infrequent; 1–1.5 in per week on clay, 0.5 in on sand. Early morning best.
• Fertilize: 3 lb N/1000 sq ft/year (split: early May, early Sept, late Oct). Shade areas: half rate.
• Leave clippings (recycles nutrients).
• Sharpen blades every 4th mowing.
• Thatch: If >½ in, core aerate + topdress (better than power raking).

Weed Prevention

Dense turf from above practices shades out crabgrass and broadleaf weeds. Pre-emergent in early spring if needed.