As we move from the shorter days and chilly temperatures of winter, to the hope and promise of spring, few of us look first to the chores we will soon need to address around our homes and yards. But now is indeed the time to take a look at our lawns and assess the damage lower levels of light, heavy rains and general neglect may have taken.

It is common in our area to find moss growing where lawn once existed. This is a symptom not a problem. By addressing this symptom, a lush vibrant lawn is merely weeks away. Mosses can exist only when grasses have failed to thrive. Most frequently the grasses have succumbed to compacted soil, poor drainage and shady conditions.

To reclaim your lawn, begin by applying a moss killer formulated for turf grasses. These typically contain some form of iron, come in granular or liquid formulations and are available at local garden centers. Read and follow label directions carefully.

Once the moss has turned black, use a metal rake if the areas are small, or rent a dethatcher for larger areas from a local rental center to remove the moss and expose soil. Rake and remove the debris.

To relieve compaction, take several passes across your lawn with a core-aerator (also available at rental centers). This machine pulls plugs or cores to a depth of about 3 inches. These cores expose the root zone and provide a gateway for soil amendments. Backfilling the holes with a porous ceramic product to add pore space and promote good air circulation, and an organic fertilizer to provide a quick nutrient source to micro-organisms will stimulate a healthy root system.

Finally, overseed with a good quality lawn seed blended for the Pacific Northwest to add new vitality to your tired lawn.

Of course, this means that in a few weeks you will need to crank up the old lawn mower, but it also means that you will be able to stroll barefoot through your lush green lawn this summer.