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May Lawn Care Guide: From Feeding to Fighting Weeds

Posted on by admin
06
May

Your Step-by-Step Plan for a Greener, Healthier Lawn This Month

May in Central Massachusetts is when lawns wake up for good—and it’s your window to get ahead of weeds, feed your grass, and set the tone for the rest of the season. At The Farmer’s Daughter, we know your lawn is more than just grass—it’s your outdoor living space, your kids’ playground, and your garden’s frame. That’s why we’ve put together this easy-to-follow May lawn care guide, customized for our Auburn, MA climate.

1. Feed for Growth and Green

After April showers and the warming trend of May, your lawn is in prime growing mode. Now’s the time to apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to fuel healthy blades and strong roots.

What We Recommend:

  • Espoma Organic Lawn Food for an eco-friendly, pet-safe option.

  • Scotts Step 2 if you’re following a traditional lawn care program.

Apply fertilizer when the lawn is dry, then water it in thoroughly unless rain is on the way. Feeding in May gives your lawn the nutrients it needs without pushing excessive top growth that burns out in summer heat.

2. Weed Control: Get Ahead Now

Dandelions and broadleaf weeds love the same conditions your grass does—but they’re faster to take advantage. May is your chance to spot-treat or apply a weed & feed product.

Tips for Tackling Weeds:

  • Use a selective herbicide like Bonide Weed Beater Ultra on problem patches.

  • For organic options, try Fiesta Lawn Weed Killer, which targets broadleaf weeds without harming turf.

  • Apply early in the day when weeds are actively growing and before mowing.

If you applied a pre-emergent in April, you’re already ahead—but keep an eye out for crabgrass along sunny edges, driveways, and walkways.

3. Mow Smart and Often

May is when grass growth ramps up, so sharpen those mower blades and stick to the one-third rule: never cut more than a third of the grass blade at once.

Pro Mowing Tips:

  • Set your mower height to 3 inches to shade out weeds and retain moisture.

  • Leave clippings on the lawn as natural mulch—unless you’ve got heavy thatch.

  • Mow weekly or as needed, depending on growth.

A clean cut and regular mowing helps keep your lawn thick and resistant to weed invasion.

4. Overseed Bare Spots

Noticed patchy areas after winter or grubs? May is still a good time to overseed—just avoid using a crabgrass preventer in the same area, as it can block seed germination.

How-To:

  1. Rake away debris and loosen the soil.

  2. Sprinkle high-quality sun or sun/shade mix grass seed.

  3. Water daily until germination (7–14 days).

  4. Mow only once new grass reaches 3 inches tall.

For best results, stop by The Farmer’s Daughter for expert advice and the perfect seed mix for your lawn’s conditions.

5. Water Wisely

May rains often do the job, but if dry weather sets in, water deeply 1–2 times per week instead of lightly every day.

  • Morning watering is best to reduce evaporation and disease risk.

  • Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.

Consistent watering keeps your lawn from getting stressed, which invites weeds and disease.

Let Us Help You Grow It Right

Whether you’re feeding, weeding, seeding, or simply mowing smarter, May is your power month for lawn care. Stop by The Farmer’s Daughter in Auburn to stock up on trusted fertilizers, lawn seed, and local advice that works for our New England climate. We’re here to help you grow a lawn you love—all season long.

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