What Does Spring Clean Up Include? Your Essential Guide

Oct 14

When you schedule professional spring clean up services or plan to tackle the job yourself, understanding exactly what's involved helps set realistic expectations and ensures nothing important gets overlooked. Spring clean up isn't a one-size-fits-all service—the specific tasks can vary based on property size, landscape features, winter severity, and your property's unique needs. However, comprehensive spring clean up services follow a systematic approach that addresses the most critical post-winter tasks, from removing accumulated debris to preparing lawns and gardens for vigorous growth throughout the coming season.

Professional spring clean up typically includes debris removal from all property areas, lawn dethatching and aeration, pruning and trimming plants, garden bed preparation with fresh mulch application, edging landscape beds, and the first lawn mowing and fertilization of the season. Additional services like overseeding, irrigation system checks, pest control applications, and drainage assessments may be included depending on your service package and property requirements. This comprehensive approach transforms winter-worn properties into vibrant outdoor spaces ready to thrive through spring and summer.

Key Takeaways

Debris removal is the foundation of spring clean up, clearing leaves, branches, dead plants, and winter accumulation from lawns, beds, and hardscapes
Lawn services typically include dethatching to remove dead grass buildup, aeration to relieve soil compaction, and the season's first mowing and fertilization
Plant care encompasses pruning dead or damaged branches, cutting back perennials, trimming ornamental grasses, and shaping shrubs for healthy growth
Garden bed preparation involves removing old mulch, edging bed borders, adding fresh mulch layers, and preparing soil for new plantings
Spring clean up packages vary with basic services covering essentials and comprehensive packages including aeration, overseeding, and specialized treatments
Timing affects what's included—early season services focus on debris removal while later appointments may emphasize lawn treatments and planting

Overview

This essential guide details what's included in professional spring clean up services, helping you understand the scope and value of this important seasonal maintenance. We'll explore core services that form the foundation of every spring clean up, optional additions that address specific needs, and how service packages typically differ. You'll learn what to expect during the process, how long various tasks take, and questions to ask service providers about their specific offerings. Our FAQ section addresses common concerns about spring clean up inclusions, customization options, and service limitations. Bulger Brothers Landscape provides comprehensive spring clean up services throughout Winnipeg, with customizable packages that address your property's specific post-winter needs.

Core Spring Clean Up Services

Every thorough spring clean up includes certain fundamental services that address universal post-winter conditions. These core tasks form the foundation of professional spring clean up packages.

Complete Debris Removal

The most visible and essential spring clean up component involves systematically removing all accumulated debris from your entire property. This includes matted leaves that smothered grass through winter, broken branches and twigs scattered by storms and wind, dead annual plants left from the previous season, pine cones and seed pods dropped by trees, and general litter that accumulated during months of minimal outdoor activity. Professional crews work methodically through properties, checking often-overlooked areas like fence lines, foundation plantings, window wells, and corners where debris collects.

Leaf removal deserves particular emphasis, as thick layers of matted leaves prevent sunlight from reaching grass, trap moisture that promotes disease, and create ideal conditions for lawn problems like snow mould and brown patches. Even properties that received thorough fall clean ups often need spring leaf removal, particularly if they have oak trees or other species that hold leaves through winter. Professional-grade blowers make quick work of leaf removal, clearing beds, lawns, and hardscapes efficiently before collecting materials for disposal.

Branch and twig collection prevents mower damage, eliminates tripping hazards, and removes potential disease vectors from your landscape. Winter storms stress trees, causing branch breakage that ranges from small twigs to substantial limbs. Larger branches may require cutting into manageable pieces before removal, while smaller debris can be raked, blown into piles, or collected by hand. Thorough debris removal creates clean surfaces for subsequent spring clean up tasks.

Lawn Dethatching Services

Dethatching addresses the layer of dead grass stems, roots, and organic matter that accumulates between living grass blades and soil. While thin thatch layers (under 1.5 cm) are normal and even beneficial, excessive buildup creates problems by blocking water, air, and nutrients from reaching grass roots. It also provides habitat for lawn pests and diseases while creating spongy, weak turf that browns easily during summer stress. Spring clean up dethatching uses power rakes or vertical mowers with rotating tines that pull thatch to the surface for removal.

The dethatching process temporarily makes lawns look worse as machines rip through turf, leaving properties looking torn up with piles of dead material scattered across grass. This appearance is temporary—lawns typically green up within 2-3 weeks as grass responds to improved growing conditions. The volume of material removed during dethatching often surprises property owners, sometimes filling multiple yard waste bags or requiring trailer loads for disposal on larger properties.

Not all lawns require annual dethatching. Properties with minimal thatch buildup may skip this service or dethatch every 2-3 years rather than annually. Professional spring clean up assessments determine whether your lawn needs dethatching based on thatch thickness, grass type, and overall lawn health. When included in spring clean up packages, dethatching material removal is typically part of the service rather than an additional charge.

Core Aeration for Soil Compaction

Core aeration involves extracting small plugs of soil from lawns using specialized machines with hollow tines. This process creates thousands of small holes that allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate compacted soil and reach grass roots more effectively. Soil compaction develops naturally over time from foot traffic, mowing equipment, weather cycles, and particularly affects clay soils common in many regions. Compacted soil restricts root growth, reduces water infiltration, and creates poor growing conditions that result in thin, struggling grass.

The plugs removed during aeration—typically about 1.5 cm in diameter and 5-8 cm long—are left on the lawn surface where they break down over several weeks, adding beneficial organic matter back into the soil. While these plugs create a temporarily messy appearance, they shouldn't be removed as they contribute to soil improvement. Most disappear within 2-4 weeks through weathering and mowing.

Aeration is often included in comprehensive spring clean up packages but may be an optional add-on with basic service packages. Its benefits are substantial and long-lasting—aerated lawns develop deeper root systems, resist drought better, absorb water more efficiently, and maintain healthier appearance with less inputs. For Manitoba properties with heavy clay soils and harsh winters, spring aeration provides excellent value as part of annual lawn care routines.

Pruning and Plant Trimming

Spring clean up pruning focuses on removing winter damage, dead branches, and shaping plants before active growth begins. Dead or damaged branches should be removed first, as they provide no benefit and may harbour diseases or pests that could spread to healthy plant tissue. Clean cuts just outside branch collars allow plants to heal properly while minimizing disease entry points. Professional crews use sharp, clean pruning tools that make precise cuts rather than crushing or tearing plant tissue.

Different plants require different pruning approaches and timing. Spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs, forsythia, and rhododendrons should wait until after blooming for major pruning since they flower on previous year's growth. However, dead branch removal can proceed in early spring without sacrificing flowers. Summer-flowering plants like butterfly bush, roses, and crape myrtles can be pruned aggressively in early spring since they bloom on current season's growth.

Perennial cutback forms another important pruning component. Herbaceous perennials left standing through winter for visual interest or wildlife habitat should be cut to ground level in spring to make room for fresh growth. Ornamental grasses require cutting to 5-10 cm above ground, while evergreen perennials like hellebores and heucheras need only dead foliage removal rather than complete cutback. Professional spring clean up crews understand these distinctions and treat each plant type appropriately.

Garden Bed Preparation

Comprehensive bed preparation involves multiple steps that create optimal growing conditions for plants throughout the season. The process begins with removing debris accumulated in beds—leaves, twigs, dead plant material, and winter mulch that has broken down or become compacted. Old mulch assessment determines whether existing material should be removed entirely, redistributed, or simply topped with fresh layers. Excessive mulch buildup—more than 8-10 cm total depth—requires partial removal to prevent smothering plant crowns.

Bed edging creates clean boundaries between lawn and planting areas, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes. Sharp, defined edges give landscapes professional polish while preventing grass from invading beds and keeping mulch contained where it belongs. Manual edging uses half-moon edgers or flat spades to cut clean lines, while mechanical edgers speed the process on large properties. Proper edging depth—typically 5-8 cm—creates effective barriers without requiring excessive maintenance.

Fresh mulch application completes bed preparation, providing 5-8 cm layers of material that suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and create finished, attractive appearances. Spring is ideal for mulching as applications occur before most weed seeds germinate while soil still holds winter moisture. Various mulch types serve different purposes—shredded bark offers longevity and natural appearance, while dyed mulches maintain colour longer and cedar varieties provide pest-repelling properties.

Initial Lawn Mowing

The season's first mowing typically concludes spring clean up services, providing the neat, manicured appearance that marks winter's end. This initial cut removes winter-damaged blade tips, stimulates fresh growth, and establishes the maintenance pattern for the season ahead. The first mowing should follow the one-third rule—removing no more than one-third of grass blade height in a single cutting to avoid stressing turf that's still recovering from dormancy.

Mower blade sharpness is particularly important for first mowing. Dull blades tear grass rather than cutting cleanly, creating ragged tips that brown and provide disease entry points. Professional mowing services maintain sharp blades and proper cutting heights for different grass types—typically 6-8 cm for cool-season grasses common in Manitoba. Grass clippings from first mowing are often collected rather than mulched, as wet spring grass can clump and smother turf if left in place.

Some spring clean up packages include only the initial mowing, while others may cover the first 2-3 mowings until regular weekly service begins. Understanding exactly what mowing is included in your spring clean up package prevents confusion about when ongoing mowing services need to start. Properties with extensive growth may require mowing midway through spring clean up work rather than waiting until all other tasks are complete.

Optional and Additional Services

Beyond core spring clean up tasks, many properties benefit from additional services that address specific needs or enhance results.

Overseeding for Lawn Density

Overseeding involves spreading grass seed over existing lawns to fill thin areas, repair winter damage, and improve overall turf density. Spring represents an excellent time for overseeding cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fescue that thrive in Manitoba's climate. The process works particularly well following dethatching and aeration, as these services create ideal conditions for seed-to-soil contact and germination.

Quality overseeding requires appropriate seed selection for your conditions—sun versus shade areas, traffic levels, and desired grass characteristics all influence variety choice. Professional services use premium seed blends formulated for local conditions rather than generic "contractor mix" that may include undesirable varieties. Proper seeding rates—typically 2-3 kg per 100 square metres for overseeding—ensure adequate coverage without waste.

Following overseeding, lawns require special care including keeping seeded areas consistently moist for 2-3 weeks, avoiding heavy traffic until new grass establishes, and delaying herbicide applications that could damage seedlings. Some spring clean up packages include overseeding as standard, while others offer it as an optional add-on. If your lawn has significant thin areas or bare patches from winter damage, overseeding provides excellent value as part of spring renovation.

Fertilization and Soil Amendments

Early spring fertilization provides nutrients that support vigorous grass growth after winter dormancy. Slow-release fertilizers work particularly well for spring applications, providing steady nutrition over 6-12 weeks rather than causing excessive growth spurts that increase mowing frequency. Balanced formulations with appropriate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ratios support overall plant health better than high-nitrogen products that promote only top growth.

Application timing matters significantly for fertilization effectiveness. Applying fertilizer too early, when grass is still dormant, wastes product and potentially feeds weed seeds instead of desirable grass. The ideal timing comes when grass shows signs of active growth—typically when forsythia blooms or soil temperatures consistently reach 10°C. Professional spring clean up services time fertilization appropriately based on seasonal conditions rather than calendar dates.

Some properties benefit from soil amendments beyond basic fertilization. Lime applications correct acidic soil conditions that limit nutrient availability, while iron supplements address chlorosis without excessive nitrogen. Soil testing provides specific recommendations for amendment needs, though most spring clean up packages include only standard fertilization rather than customized soil treatments.

Pre-Emergent Weed Control

Pre-emergent herbicides prevent annual weed seeds from germinating, providing season-long control when applied at proper timing. These products create chemical barriers in the soil that kill germinating weed seedlings before they emerge, making them far more effective than treating weeds after establishment. Crabgrass represents the primary target for spring pre-emergent applications, though these products also prevent other annual weeds like foxtail and goosegrass.

Timing is absolutely critical for pre-emergent effectiveness—applications must occur before weed seeds germinate but after the soil has warmed enough to trigger germination. For most areas, this window occurs when forsythia blooms or soil temperatures reach 13-15°C for several consecutive days. Applied too early, products may break down before seeds germinate; too late, and weeds have already emerged beyond pre-emergent control.

Pre-emergent applications prevent overseeding for 6-12 weeks depending on the product used, as they inhibit all seed germination including desirable grass seed. Properties requiring both services need to coordinate timing—either overseed first and delay pre-emergent applications, or apply pre-emergent and wait until late spring or fall for overseeding. Professional spring clean up services understand these timing considerations and help clients balance competing priorities.

Irrigation System Startup

Properties with underground irrigation systems require spring startup services that ensure everything functions properly before the growing season begins. Winterization drains water from pipes to prevent freeze damage, and spring startup reverses this process while checking for winter damage or problems that developed during dormancy. Professional irrigation startup includes activating the system, checking each zone for proper operation, adjusting sprinkler heads for coverage and direction, identifying leaks or broken components, and programming controllers for appropriate seasonal watering.

Common spring irrigation problems include cracked pipes from frost heaving, broken sprinkler heads damaged by snow removal equipment, clogged nozzles from debris, and controller programming issues. Identifying these problems during spring startup prevents water waste, landscape damage from improper watering, and system failures during peak summer demand. Many properties combine irrigation startup with spring clean up services for convenient, comprehensive seasonal preparation.

Some spring clean up packages include basic irrigation checks, while full system startup typically represents a separate service requiring specialized knowledge and licensing. Understanding what's included in your spring clean up package versus what requires additional irrigation services prevents surprises and ensures proper system preparation.

Pest and Disease Treatments

Early spring applications of preventative pest and disease treatments protect landscapes before problems become established. Dormant oil sprays applied to fruit trees and ornamental plants smother overwintering insect eggs and larvae, reducing summer pest pressures. Fungicide applications prevent diseases like apple scab on susceptible trees when applied before bud break. Systemic insecticides provide season-long protection against specific pests like emerald ash borer or adelgids.

These specialized treatments typically require separate applications from standard spring clean up services, though some comprehensive packages include basic preventative treatments. Properties with specific pest or disease histories benefit most from these proactive approaches. Professional assessment during spring clean up often identifies trees or plants that would benefit from preventative treatments, even if they weren't initially included in service plans.

Understanding Service Package Differences

Spring clean up services come in various package levels, and understanding these differences helps you select appropriate services for your needs and budget.

Basic Spring Clean Up Packages

Entry-level spring clean up packages typically focus on visual improvement through debris removal and initial lawn preparation. These packages usually include thorough debris removal from all property areas, bed clean up and light edging, perennial cutback and basic shrub pruning, and initial lawn mowing. Basic packages provide noticeable improvement and prepare properties for the season ahead, though they may not address underlying lawn health issues like compaction or thin turf.

Properties with limited winter damage, smaller yard sizes, or tight budgets often find basic packages sufficient for their needs. These services typically take 2-4 hours for average residential properties and cost significantly less than comprehensive options. Understanding exactly what's included prevents disappointment if you expect services not covered in basic packages.

Standard or Mid-Level Packages

Mid-range spring clean up packages add lawn health services to debris removal and plant care. These typically include everything in basic packages plus lawn dethatching or aeration (sometimes both), fertilization with pre-emergent weed control, fresh mulch application to all beds, and complete bed edging. Standard packages address both appearance and lawn health, providing better value for properties with lawn issues or those seeking comprehensive seasonal preparation.

Most residential properties with moderate maintenance needs find standard packages offer the best balance of services and value. These packages typically require 4-8 hours for completion depending on property size and condition. Mid-level services cost 30-50% more than basic packages but deliver significantly enhanced results through their inclusion of lawn health treatments.

Premium or Comprehensive Packages

Top-tier spring clean up packages provide complete seasonal preparation with all available services. These typically include everything in standard packages plus both dethatching and aeration, overseeding for lawn density improvement, irrigation system startup and adjustment, comprehensive plant pruning and trimming, soil testing or custom amendment applications, and sometimes pest or disease preventative treatments. Premium packages suit properties with significant winter damage, those seeking maximum results, or clients preferring comprehensive care without arranging multiple separate services.

The investment in premium packages can be substantial—often 2-3 times basic package costs—but provides thoroughness that sets properties up for exceptional seasonal performance. These services may span multiple days depending on property size and scope. For properties where appearance and health are priorities, comprehensive packages often prove worthwhile through their complete approach to seasonal preparation.

When you're ready to schedule professional spring clean up that transforms your Winnipeg property from winter-worn to spring-ready, Bulger Brothers Landscape offers customizable service packages that match your specific needs and budget. Our experienced crews understand what Manitoba properties require after harsh winters, from debris removal and lawn renovation to plant care and bed preparation. We're located at 7 Leeward Pl, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3X 1M6, Canada, and you can reach us at +1 204 782 0313 to discuss your spring clean up needs and receive a detailed service proposal. Whether you need basic clean up or comprehensive seasonal preparation, we deliver professional results that prepare your property for a beautiful growing season.

FAQS

Q: Does spring clean up include removing winter sand from driveways and sidewalks?

A: Most spring clean up services focus on landscape areas rather than hardscape cleaning, though some providers include blowing or sweeping debris from driveways, walkways, and patios as part of overall property cleanup. Winter sand removal from paved surfaces sometimes requires specialized equipment like power brooms or pressure washing, which may be separate services. Discuss your specific needs with service providers to understand what hardscape cleaning is included in their spring clean up offerings.

Q: Is mulch included in spring clean up packages or charged separately?

A: This varies significantly by provider and package level. Some spring clean up packages include labour for mulch installation but charge separately for materials, while others provide all-inclusive pricing. Basic packages may not include mulching at all, mid-level packages might include limited quantities, and premium packages typically cover complete bed mulching. Always clarify whether mulch costs are included or additional when comparing spring clean up quotes to avoid budget surprises.

Q: Will spring clean up services dispose of all debris or do I need to arrange disposal?

A: Professional spring clean up services typically include complete debris removal and disposal as part of their pricing. Crews load materials onto trailers or trucks and transport them to proper disposal facilities. This comprehensive approach distinguishes professional services from basic mowing companies that may leave debris for homeowner disposal. Confirm disposal is included when booking services, particularly if your property has substantial debris volumes from severe winter damage.

Q: Can I customize what's included in spring clean up or are packages fixed?

A: Most reputable landscape companies offer both standard packages and customization options to match specific property needs. You might choose a standard package with add-on services like overseeding or irrigation startup, or build a completely custom service plan addressing your unique requirements. Discussing your property's specific conditions, budget, and priorities with service providers allows them to recommend appropriate service combinations. Customization typically works best when arranged before scheduling rather than requesting changes after crews arrive.

Q: Does spring clean up include planting new flowers or shrubs?

A: Standard spring clean up packages typically focus on maintenance and preparation rather than new plantings, though some providers offer planting services as add-ons or separate projects. Garden bed preparation included in clean up creates ideal conditions for planting, but actual plant purchase and installation usually require additional arrangements. If you want spring planting, discuss this with your service provider when scheduling clean up so they can coordinate timing and ensure beds are properly prepared before plant installation.

Conclusion

Spring clean up includes a comprehensive range of services from essential debris removal and lawn care to optional treatments that address specific property needs, with package options ranging from basic maintenance to complete seasonal preparation. Understanding what's included in different service levels helps you select appropriate care for your property and budget while ensuring expectations align with what providers deliver. Whether you choose basic clean up or comprehensive packages, professional spring services transform winter-damaged properties into vibrant landscapes ready to thrive throughout the growing season ahead.

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