Seasonal Lawn Care Tips for Homeowners in Reno & Sparks, NV

Caring for a lawn in Reno and Sparks is very different from maintaining one in other parts of the country. Our high desert climate, dramatic temperature swings, and low annual rainfall create challenges that require a strategic, seasonal approach. At Longhorn Landscaping, LLC, we work with Northern Nevada homeowners year-round to create greener, healthier lawns that thrive despite the desert climate. With proper timing and the right practices, you can keep your yard looking beautiful in every season.

Spring in Reno and Sparks is the ideal time to bring your lawn back to life after winter dormancy. As temperatures warm and the soil begins to soften, aeration becomes one of the most important early-season steps. Aerating breaks up compacted soil, allowing oxygen and water to flow freely into the root zone. After aeration, a high-quality spring fertilizer helps grass grow thicker and greener. Because weeds like crabgrass and foxtail spread aggressively in Northern Nevada, applying a pre-emergent weed treatment early in the season gives your lawn a strong advantage before weed seeds germinate. Spring is also the time to tune up irrigation systems and ensure they are ready for the drier months ahead.

Summer lawn care in Reno and Sparks requires balancing heat, sun exposure, and limited water availability. Watering deeply and less frequently encourages your lawn to grow strong roots that can withstand triple-digit temperatures. Early morning watering is essential to help reduce evaporation and prevent fungal issues. Mowing is another key component of summer lawn maintenance. Keeping your mower blades sharp and raising the mowing height helps protect the grass from heat stress. Summer is also when pests, such as lawn grubs, are most active. Regular monitoring and early treatment prevent patchy, damaged areas from spreading.

Fall is the season when your lawn recovers from summer heat and prepares for colder weather. Overseeding thin or damaged sections helps fill bare patches and increases your lawn’s overall density. Because leaves in Reno and Sparks fall quickly and often in large amounts, removing them regularly is essential. Allowing piles of leaves to remain on the lawn traps moisture and creates conditions where mold and disease thrive. Applying a fall fertilizer strengthens the root system and helps your lawn store energy for the winter ahead. Many homeowners also schedule irrigation winterization during fall to protect their system from freezing temperatures.

Although lawns in Northern Nevada go dormant during the winter, there are still ways to care for your yard. Limiting foot traffic helps prevent soil compaction and damage to dormant grass. Clearing away debris or leftover leaves reduces the risk of mold and pests. Winter is also a great time to plan upcoming landscaping projects. Whether you're thinking about new turf, irrigation upgrades, or a full landscape redesign, early planning ensures you’re first on the schedule once spring arrives.

Longhorn Landscaping, LLC provides year-round lawn care, seasonal clean-ups, irrigation services, and landscaping solutions tailored to the unique conditions of Reno and Sparks. If you want a lush, healthy lawn without the hassle, our team is ready to help. Contact us today for a free lawn care assessment and personalized maintenance plan.