As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time for Memphis homeowners to give their lawns the attention they deserve. The Memphis climate, with its hot summers, mild winters, and occasional humidity, presents unique challenges—and opportunities—for keeping your lawn lush and green all year long.
As the premier lawn care professionals serving Memphis and surrounding areas of Tennesee, we know what works for your yard. To help you all, we have created a month-by-month guide specific to Memphis’ weather conditions, you’ll know exactly what your lawn needs at every stage of the year. Whether you’re tackling weeds, fertilizing, or fighting off pests, this roadmap will keep your yard looking its best.
January to March: End of Winter and Early Spring Lawn Maintenance
Though winters in Memphis are mild, this is still a dormant period for most lawns, especially if you have Bermuda or zoysia grass. However, that doesn’t mean you can sit back and relax—this is the ideal time to plan ahead. So while there is not much to do, some steps put you in a much better position for spring.
Tasks:
Soil Testing
Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Memphis soils can be clay-heavy and acidic, which may affect grass growth. A soil test will tell you exactly what your lawn needs to thrive.
Lawn Cleaning and Dethatching
Remove debris like leaves, sticks, and other clutter from your lawn. If your grass has accumulated a thick layer of thatch (a layer of dead grass and organic material), dethatch lightly to improve air and water penetration.
Lawn Equipment Maintenance
Sharpen mower blades, replace filters, and make sure your lawn tools are ready for spring.
Pre-Emergent Weed Control
Memphis’ fluctuating winter temperatures often wake up weeds early. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in February to prevent crabgrass and other invasive species from taking over.
Pro Tip:
Pay attention to pest control during these months. Memphis winters are mild enough for some insects to remain active. Look for signs of grubs or other overwintering pests.
April to June: Spring Revival
This is one of the most crucial periods of your annual lawn care schedule. Spring is when your lawn bounces back from winter dormancy, and Memphis’ rainy days provide a head start on growth. But the rain also brings weeds and pests, so your lawn care game needs to be strong.
Here are some tasks that you can do for effective spring lawn maintenance:
Tasks:
Aerating Your Lawn
Memphis’ clay-heavy soil can compact easily, which stifles root growth. Aerate your lawn to let water and nutrients reach the roots. If you haven’t done any dethatching, you can still do it later in spring to remove any debris that’s blocking sunlight and airflow.
Overseeding
To effectively repair bare patches in your lawn, consider overseeding with Bermuda or zoysia seeds. Both of these grass varieties are well-suited for Memphis’ warm climate, where they flourish in the summer heat. Bermuda grass is known for its dense, lush growth and resilience, making it perfect for high-traffic areas, while Zoysia grass has a soft texture and exceptional drought resistance.
Fertilization
Spring is the right time to fertilize your lawn. This is because your lawn is starting to heat up and needs time to recoup before the extreme summer sun hits. Apply a slow-release fertilizer to boost healthy growth. Look for fertilizers with nitrogen to encourage that vibrant green color.
Pest Control
Start pest treatments for common spring pests like armyworms, which are notorious in the
Memphis area.
Weed Management
Spot-treat broadleaf weeds like dandelions before they spread.
Pro Tip:
Memphis springs are often rainy, so be cautious about overwatering. Too much water can lead to fungal issues like brown patch disease.
July to September: Summer Survival
Summers in Memphis are pretty harsh. The heat and humidity can be brutal—not just for you, but for your lawn. This is when maintenance becomes critical to keep your grass from succumbing to stress.
Tasks:
Watering Adjustments
Water deeply, but less frequently—ideally in the early morning. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, factoring in rainfall.
Pest Management
Watch out for chinch bugs and grubs, which thrive in Memphis’ hot conditions. A mid-summer pest treatment will keep these insects at bay.
Fertilization
Apply fertilizers designed for warm-season grasses. Avoid fertilizing during the hottest days, as this can stress the grass further.
Fertilizing your lawn in summer is important but you need to keep several things in mind. Read our blog post for tips: How To Fertilize Your Lawn This Summer
Mowing
Raise your mower blade height to 2.5 to 3 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing water evaporation and discouraging weeds.
Pro Tip:
Pay attention to the signs of fungal infections like dollar spots or brown patches, which are common in Memphis’ humid summers. Early treatment can save your lawn from widespread damage.
October to December: Fall Lawn Care
Now on to the final part of our annual lawn maintenance schedule. Fall is the season to prepare your Memphis lawn for the colder months while repairing summer damage. Use this time to lay the groundwork for a healthy lawn next spring.
Tasks:
Mowing and Grass Height
Gradually lower mowing height as growth slows. The final cut should be shorter than the summer height to prevent winter fungus. Keep it around 2 inches to strike the right balance.
Water Management
Reduce watering frequency but keep soil moisture consistent. Only water during extended dry spells with no rain. About 1 inch of water per week is plenty during active growth.
Leaf Cleanup
Regular leaf removal prevents grass suffocation and mold. Don’t let wet leaves mat on your lawn. Try to remove leaves at least weekly during peak fall.
Winter Feed
Apply one good winterizing fertilizer with high potassium to strengthen roots before dormancy. Aim for a 20-0-20 mix or similar for the best results.
Weed Watch
Monitor and treat winter weeds early before they are established. Common culprits include poa annua and chickweed. Spot treat with selective herbicides as soon as you notice them.
Final Thoughts
Lawn care in Memphis is as much about timing as it is about effort. By following this month-by-month guide, you’ll give your lawn exactly what it needs to stay lush and healthy in 2025. From aerating clay-heavy soil in spring to staying vigilant against summer pests, every step contributes to a lawn you can be proud of.
At Jamison Pest and Lawn, we’re proud to be Memphis’ trusted partner for lawn maintenance services. With decades of local expertise, we know exactly how to tackle the challenges of this region’s climate. If you’re ready to take the guesswork out of lawn care, let us handle it for you.
Contact us today at (901) 452-1505 to schedule a consultation or lawn care service. Let’s make 2025 your lawn’s best year yet!
FAQ’s
A. The best grass types for Memphis are warm-season grasses like Bermuda and zoysia, or cool-season tall fescue for shaded areas. Plant Bermuda and zoysia in late spring when soil temperatures reach 65 degrees (typically April or May in Memphis). For tall fescue, plant in early fall (September or October) when temperatures cool but the soil remains warm.
A. For Memphis lawns during summer, water deeply 2 to 3 times per week rather than daily shallow watering. Apply 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week total, adjusting for rainfall. Water in the early morning (before 10 a.m.) to reduce evaporation and fungal growth.
