Before feeding or topdressing, remove what is holding the lawn back. Rake up old leaves, sticks, dead grass and any winter debris that may be smothering the surface. Where the grass has become matted, use a firm garden rake to open the canopy so that light, air and water can reach the crown of the grass.
Do not be too aggressive on lawns that are still dormant or very wet. The goal is to wake the lawn up gently, not tear it apart. Once the weather warms and active growth begins, the lawn will recover faster from light raking, mowing and feeding.
Mow carefully, not too short
The first few spring cuts are important. It is tempting to scalp the lawn to“ start fresh”, but cutting too low can stress the grass and expose the soil to weeds and heat. Rather mow gradually and keep the blades at a sensible height.