Spring garden primer

Published: Friday, February 28, 2014 at 7:27 p.m. Last Modified: Friday, February 28, 2014 at 7:27 p.m.

Gardening has been on the minds of many North Florida residents, the stubborn cold temperatures of late notwithstanding. And while most experienced gardeners know the steps needed to begin the season on the right foot, we talked to landscape and gardening experts for suggestions on how to start the season right.

One note: The area isn't past its final cold snap. The average last killing freeze is March 10, after which it's considered safe to plant.

Another note: The University of Florida Extension Soil Testing Lab is offering free soil testing at its third annual and newly renamed Lawn and Garden Fest on March 29. It's a good way to know with certainty what your yard needs. More on that later.

Depending on the micro climate in a particular yard, the growth of the lawn slowed down or stopped altogether for the winter. As the days get longer and the temperatures increase, the lawn will start to grow. It may seem obvious, but a good first step is to check that your mower is in good condition. Blades should be sharpened at least once a year to ensure a clean cut.

TIP: Mowing heights for different types of grass: St. Augustine 3 to 4 inches; Bahia 3 to 4 inches; Zoysia 2 to 2 inches

TIP: In general, depending on the amount of shade and soil type, irrigate once a week during the spring and once or twice a week during the summer. The amount of water needed does not vary: to inch of water.

TIP: If you maintain your own lawn, fertilization should take place after April 1, when the likelihood of a late frost has passed and new growth has started. During the winter, warm-season grasses lose a portion of their root system, reducing their ability to take up fertilizer. Fertilizing too early increases the risk of leaching nutrients into the groundwater supply and causing water pollution.

TIP: Read directions carefully, and look for the correct ratio of nitrogen, phosphate and potassium for your grass.

One of the first things the nurse does during a doctor's visit is take a person's blood pressure. It gives an index of what else is going on in the body.

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Spring garden primer