Let’s be real—keeping a lawn looking great in Carmel isn’t just about mowing when it gets shaggy. Indiana lawns go through serious ups and downs with the seasons, and if you don’t give your yard the right care at the right time, things can go sideways fast. Brown spots, crabgrass, weeds… you get the picture.
If you’ve ever wondered what should I be doing for my lawn and when?—this guide’s for you. We’re breaking down exactly what your lawn needs season by season, so you can stop guessing and start growing.
Spring (March–May): Time to Wake It Up
Spring is go-time. Your lawn’s been chilling all winter under snow and frost, and now it’s ready to wake up—but it needs help.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Clean up debris from winter (branches, leaves, dead grass). If you need help with that, check out our yard cleanup services.
- First mow of the year once the grass hits 2.5–3 inches
- Apply pre-emergent weed control to block crabgrass
- Start your fertilization program to feed the roots (we’ve got you covered)
- Consider aeration and overseeding if your lawn’s looking thin from winter damage
- Add mulch to your beds for moisture retention and a clean look—here’s how we can help
Timing matters a lot in spring. Miss that early window for pre-emergent, and crabgrass is going to party all summer.
Summer (June–August): Feed, Mow, Defend
Summer lawn care is all about maintenance and defense. Carmel summers can be hot and dry, so your lawn’s under some stress. The trick is helping it thrive without pushing it too hard.
Here’s your checklist:
- Mow regularly—but don’t cut too short. Keep your mower blade at 3–3.5 inches
- Water deeply and less frequently (1 inch per week, early morning is best)
- Spot-treat for weeds if any pop up
- Mid-summer fertilization to keep growth strong
- Keep an eye out for grubs. If they show up, grub control is a must
- If you haven’t aerated yet, do it now (especially for compacted areas)
Bonus points if you add hedge trimming to the routine to keep things looking polished.
Fall (September–November): The Power Season
Think fall is the wind-down season? Not even close. Fall is prime time for setting your lawn up for next year’s success. Cool temps + warm soil = ideal conditions for growth.
Here’s what to knock out:
- Apply fall fertilizer to strengthen roots before winter
- Overseed if your lawn is thin or patchy (aeration and overseeding info here)
- Keep mowing until growth slows down—yes, even into November
- Remove leaves regularly (don’t let them smother your lawn—we can help with that)
- Tidy up landscape beds and add mulch if needed
Fall is also a great time for sod installation if you’re looking to do a full refresh before winter hits.
Winter (December–February): Rest & Plan
Winter is your lawn’s off-season. Not much growing happens—but that doesn’t mean you do nothing.
Winter lawn care tasks:
- Avoid walking on frozen or snow-covered grass
- Keep your driveway and walkways clear with commercial snow removal if needed
- Plan ahead: book your spring services early and get on the schedule
- If you’re thinking of upgrades like a new patio or walkway, this is a good time to start dreaming
Why a Lawn Care Schedule Actually Matters
A lot of homeowners just wing it. Mow when it looks long, spray weeds when they see ‘em. But when you follow a real schedule, you’ll notice the difference: fewer weeds, greener grass, stronger roots, and less stress.
Plus, if you’re working with a local team like Outdoor Care Landscape, you won’t have to remember any of this—we handle it for you.
Want to know what it’ll cost to stay on top of this stuff? Check out our breakdown of lawn care costs in Carmel.
Final Tip
The secret to a great lawn in Indiana? Timing. Doing the right things at the right time makes all the difference.
Not sure where to start or just want someone to handle the details? Contact us and we’ll build a custom care plan that fits your lawn—and your budget.