DFW Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist: 2026 Edition

Proper spring yard cleanup in DFW sets the foundation for a healthy, beautiful landscape throughout the growing season. Starting in late February and continuing through March, these essential tasks prepare your property for Texas heat while addressing winter damage.

Spring Cleanup Timeline for DFW

Late February (Weeks 1-2)

• Assess winter damage to plants and hardscaping
• Prune dormant trees and shrubs (before bud break)
• Remove fallen branches and debris
• Plan new plantings and landscape improvements

Early March (Weeks 3-4)

• Apply pre-emergent herbicide for crabgrass prevention
• Cut back ornamental grasses and perennials
• Refresh mulch beds
• Service irrigation systems

Mid-March (Weeks 5-6)

• Fertilize lawns after green-up
• Plant cool-season annuals
• Edge beds and borders
• Clean and sharpen garden tools

Complete Spring Cleanup Checklist

Lawn Care Tasks

• ☐ Rake and remove leaves and debris
• ☐ Dethatch if buildup exceeds 1/2 inch
• ☐ Aerate compacted areas
• ☐ Apply pre-emergent weed control
• ☐ Fertilize after grass greens up
• ☐ Fill bare spots with sod or seed
• ☐ Calibrate mower and sharpen blades
• ☐ First mow at proper height

See our pre-emergent weed control guide for timing.

Bed and Border Tasks

• ☐ Cut back dormant perennials
• ☐ Remove winter mulch from tender plants
• ☐ Edge beds for clean lines
• ☐ Refresh mulch (2-3 inch depth)
• ☐ Divide overgrown perennials
• ☐ Weed thoroughly before mulching
• ☐ Plant new perennials and shrubs

Tree and Shrub Care

• ☐ Prune dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• ☐ Shape summer-blooming shrubs
• ☐ Remove suckers from tree bases
• ☐ Apply dormant oil for pest prevention
• ☐ Inspect for winter damage
• ☐ Fertilize young trees

Hardscaping Maintenance

• ☐ Pressure wash patios and walkways
• ☐ Repair cracks in concrete
• ☐ Reset shifted pavers
• ☐ Clean and seal wood decks
• ☐ Inspect retaining walls
• ☐ Refresh gravel paths

Irrigation System

• ☐ Reactivate system after winter
• ☐ Check for broken sprinkler heads
• ☐ Adjust spray patterns
• ☐ Test coverage and pressure
• ☐ Replace worn components
• ☐ Program controller for spring schedule

Learn about sprinkler system maintenance.

Spring Planting Guide

What to Plant in Early Spring

• Trees and shrubs: Best planting time before heat
• Perennials: Establish before summer stress
• Cool-season annuals: Pansies, snapdragons, violas
• Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers (after last frost)

What to Wait On

• Warm-season annuals: Wait until April (after frost)
• Sod: Can install once soil workable
• Tender tropicals: Wait until May

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Pruning shears and loppers
• Rakes (leaf and garden)
• Wheelbarrow or garden cart
• Compost and mulch
• Fertilizer and pre-emergent
• Pressure washer
• Hand tools (trowel, weeder)
• Safety equipment (gloves, goggles)

Professional Spring Cleanup Services

For busy homeowners, professional spring cleanup includes:

• Complete debris removal
• Bed preparation and mulching
• Pruning and shaping
• Lawn renovation services
• Irrigation system activation
• Hardscape cleaning

Explore our landscape maintenance services.

Conclusion

A thorough spring yard cleanup prepares your DFW landscape for the demanding summer ahead. By completing these tasks in the proper sequence and timing, you’ll enjoy a healthier, more beautiful property throughout the growing season.

Need help with spring cleanup? Contact Sandoval Landscaping for professional spring maintenance services.