What Month Should You Start Watering and Fertilizing Your Lawn in the Chicago Suburbs?

What Month Should You Start Watering and Fertilizing Your Lawn in the Chicago Suburbs?

What Month Should You Start Watering and Fertilizing Your Lawn in the Chicago Suburbs?

If you’re wondering when to start watering and fertilizing your lawn, the simple answer for those of us in the Chicagoland suburbs is: March or April.

Timing Fertilization & Weed Control in the Midwest

In this part of the Midwest, soil temperatures in early spring start climbing toward 55°F, which is the ideal time to apply pre-emergent weed control. Pre-emergents, like Prodiamine, help prevent stubborn annual weeds like crabgrass before they even sprout.

This is also a perfect time to apply a balanced fertilizer to help your lawn green up after winter. If you're grabbing something from a big box store, most early-season fertilizers come blended with pre-emergent to make things easy.

First Mowings & Seasonal Transitions

Your lawn will likely need its first mowings by mid-April, especially in areas like Joliet, Plainfield, Shorewood, and Minooka—although this timing can shift earlier depending on the weather. Once the grass starts growing, it comes on fast.

Dealing With Dandelions

Next up: dandelion season. You’ll spot them in your yard and while mowing—especially when the mower scatters those fluffy seeds. Most granular weed and feed products sold at hardware stores don’t do a great job controlling broadleaf weeds like dandelions. These weeds are better handled using liquid applications, which provide more effective coverage.

While granular products are great for fertilizing, they’re just not as effective when it comes to weed control—especially if your lawn already has weed issues. In our program, we use a liquid blend of fertilizer and weed control, giving your lawn the nutrients it needs while fighting off spring weeds.

The Bottom Line

Early spring lawn care—fertilization, weed control, and mowing—sets the tone for the whole season. But honestly? The exact timing is less important than just getting started. Find a system that works for your lawn and stick with it.

If you’re in Shorewood, Joliet, Plainfield, Minooka, or Channahon, and want help getting your lawn on track, we’ve got your back.