Spring is in full swing here in Georgetown, MA, and that means it’s time to give your lawn the TLC it needs to thrive all season long. At Nunan’s Florist & Garden Center, we want you to feel confident in your lawn care routine. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your seasonal strategy, this guide will walk you through key steps for May — from fertilizing and weed control to aeration and mowing height.

1. Feed Your Lawn Right: May Fertilizing Tips

May is an ideal time to feed your lawn as it enters a rapid growth phase. For most lawns in our Zone 6a area, a slow-release nitrogen-rich fertilizer like Espoma Organic Lawn Food or Scotts Turf Builder provides balanced nutrients to support strong roots and lush green growth without causing a growth spurt that’s hard to keep up with.

If you’ve already fertilized earlier in the spring, consider applying a lighter second feeding in mid to late May. Not sure if your lawn needs it? Stop by Nunan’s for a quick consultation — we can help you match your lawn’s needs with the right product.

Pro Tip: Water your lawn after fertilizing unless you’re using a product that states otherwise. Moisture helps nutrients reach the root zone.

2. Control Weeds Before They Take Over

Weeds are opportunists — and in May, they love to compete with your grass for nutrients and sunlight. The best way to stay ahead? Combine pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control strategies:

• Pre-emergent products like Scotts Halts Crabgrass Preventer work best when applied early in the season but can still be effective in May.

• For weeds that have already sprouted, use selective herbicides like Bonide Weed Beater Ultra that target broadleaf weeds (think dandelions and clover) without harming your grass.

Always read labels and spot-test if you’re unsure. Want an organic approach? We carry corn gluten meal, which offers some weed suppression while feeding your lawn.

Pro Tip: Apply weed treatments when the lawn is dry, and hold off mowing for 2–3 days afterward for best results.

3. To Aerate or Not to Aerate?

If your lawn feels spongy or compacted — especially if it’s had heavy foot traffic or poor drainage — May is a good time to core aerate cool-season grasses like fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, or perennial ryegrass.

Aeration allows water, oxygen, and nutrients to reach the root zone more efficiently. You can rent a machine or hire a pro — or stop by Nunan’s to see if your lawn truly needs it this year.

Bonus Tip: After aerating, it’s a great time to overseed and apply compost for even better results.

4. Master the Mowing Game: Height & Frequency Matter

Mowing may seem straightforward, but how and when you mow makes a big difference in your lawn’s health. Follow the 1/3 rule: never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing session.

• For most cool-season grasses, keep your mowing height at 2.5–3.5 inches in May.

• Taller grass shades out weeds and helps retain moisture — a big plus during warm spells.

• Make sure your mower blades are sharp to prevent tearing grass, which makes it vulnerable to disease.

Did You Know? Leaving short clippings on the lawn (mulching) returns nutrients back into the soil — a natural boost between feedings.

Let Nunan’s Help You Grow a Greener Lawn

From professional lawn fertilizers to organic options and expert advice, Nunan’s Florist & Garden Center has everything you need to keep your lawn thriving this spring. Visit us in Georgetown or download our app for exclusive deals, local gardening tips, and seasonal alerts.

👉 Download the app now and use promo code WELCOME for $5 OFF your next purchase!