The March "Green-Up": Getting Your Oregon Landscape Ready for the Spring Shift

In the Pacific Northwest, March is the Great Awakening. As the days stretch longer and the blossoms begin to tease us with color, your yard is about to hit its fastest growth spurt of the year. This makes it the critical month for Oregon landscaping to transition from winter dormancy to spring vibrancy.

But here is the secret: A beautiful June yard is won or lost in March. While the ground is still moist and the plants are just starting to "push" new growth, there is a narrow window to set your landscape up for success. If you wait until the sun stays out for good, you’ve already missed the boat.

1. The "Clean Slate" Spring Cleanup

The Willamette Valley and coastline’s winter winds have left more than memories behind. Debris, fallen hemlock needles, and soggy leaves can smother your lawn care efforts and provide a nursery for moss to grow. This phase of yard maintenance is essential for a healthy foundation.

Our March Move: We do a deep-power raking and debris removal to get your soil breathing before temperatures warm enough for full growth.

2. Moss Control: The Battle

If there’s one thing every Oregonian knows, it’s that if you aren't growing grass in March, you’re growing moss too. Consistent lawn care during the damp, cool transition into spring is the prime time to prevent moss from taking over your turf.

The Solution: We apply professional-grade lime and moss control treatments now so your grass can reclaim its territory as the soil warms up.

3. Early Mulching and Tree Health

March is the ideal time to lock in that winter moisture. Garden mulching with a thick, fresh layer of dark hemlock or shredded cedar before the April rains stop serves two purposes: it smothers the first wave of spring weeds and creates a moisture reservoir for the dry July ahead.

Additionally, before the canopy fills in, it is the perfect window for tree trimming. Removing dead or overhanging branches now ensures your trees are structurally sound before the heavy growth of spring.

4. Hardscaping and Planting for the 2026 Season

If you are looking to add structural beauty to your property, late winter is a fantastic time to break ground on hardscaping projects like paver patios or retaining walls.

Want a “pollinator garden” or a more “climate-resilient” backyard? March is also ideal to plant Oregon Grape, Red Flowering Currant, or Western Columbine. These natives relish being put to ground so that the spring rains can help them develop deep roots without the stress of summer heat.

Don’t Get Caught in the Spring Rush!

By the time the first "perfect" weekend in April hits, every landscaper in Oregon will be booked out until July. Staying on top of your yard maintenance in March is your chance to jump the line.