9 Spring DIYs for the Yard

Staining a wood deck
  • 5-40 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 0-300

Spring is fast approaching and it’s time to start thinking about getting your yard ready for warmer weather. From cleaning out those dirty gutters to prepping the lawn for growth, springtime DIYs will help ensure your yard is kept in top shape. Here’s a list of DIY projects that will help get you ready for the months to come.

1. Gutter Cleanup

Checking the gutters is a must for spring showers. Clogged gutters will prevent water from properly draining away from the home. For this project, you’ll need a ladder, gloves, and a couple trash bags. Remove large chunks of debris and place them in a bag. A water hose will work just fine for removing smaller bits.

2. Gutter Maintenance

A rain gutter with a weed growing from it.

While you’re removing debris from the gutter, it’s also a good idea to check for any damage. Keep an eye out for any leaks while spraying the gutters. If you find a leak, clean the area with some steel wool and patch the broken section with metal flashing and adhesive. You should also inspect the roof and look for any missing or damaged shingles. Make repairs wherever necessary.

3. Yard Maintenance

Cleaning up the yard is the first step in preparing it for spring. Pick up any fallen leaves or branches and dispose of them in garbage bags. You can also mulch the leaves into the lawn for added nutrition. This is also a great time to prune shrubs and trees. Bypass loppers are great for cutting smaller branches and you can use a handsaw for larger ones. Remember to use caution around sharp objects and wear appropriate safety gear.

4. Exterior Scrub

A man pressure washing a house.

A pressure washer coupled with detergent is the best way to remove dirt and grime from your home’s exterior. Allow the detergent to soak in for a few minutes before pressure washing an area. When you start washing, use slow movements and concentrate on small areas at a time. Remember, pressure washers can damage siding and brick, so it’s always a good idea to start at the lowest setting and slowly increase pressure as you go.

5. Lawn Care

Spring is a great time for lawn care. You should dethatch your lawn after the first or second mow. An iron rake is great for this project and will easily cut and remove the excess thatch. With the thatch removed, new grass will have more room to grow. This is also a good time to aerate the lawn. You can do this with a coring aerator or a digging fork. Just make sure the holes are three inches apart and around two inches deep.

6. Fertilize and Seed

A man fertilizing a lawn.

Never underestimate the power of fertilizing and seeding your lawn. Not only will this improve the hardiness of your grass, but it will also make it lush and green. Fertilizers are specifically made for different types of grass, so make sure you know what kind of grass is in your lawn. Further, read and follow the directions on the package to ensure you are applying the right amount for your space.

7. Garden Prep

This is a great time to get a head start on weeding the garden. Remove any weeds that have already sprung up and add a layer of fertilizer. The fertilizer will add nutrition to the soil and generate stronger plants. Before you add anything to the garden, double-check the pH. If the soil is below 6.2, then you should add a little lime to even things out.

8. Weed Removal

A dandelion in grass.

It’s best to remove weeds when they first start appearing rather than later down the road. You can pull weeds by hand or with a weeding tool, but be certain to pull the whole root system. Post-emergent herbicides can be used as an effective tool in weed removal, just be sure not to spray plants or newly seeded grass.

9. Patio

Inspect the patio for signs of damage, such as chipped or loose boards, and repair where necessary. You can clean the patio with a broom and garden hose. If you haven’t sealed the deck in a while, now is a good time to add waterproof sealer. Simply spray the deck down using a pressure washer and apply several layers of the sealant.