April is an exciting time as spring finally arrives and nature begins to wake up! One theory about the month’s name suggests it comes from the Latin word aperio, meaning "to open"—a nod to the blossoming buds of spring.
The month kicks off with laughter on April Fools' Day. One of the most memorable pranks was the BBC’s famous 1957 report on Switzerland's "spaghetti harvest." For those who lived around Des Moines in the early 1980s, the annual April Fools' Day Parade by legendary radio personalities Moffit and Morgan on KGGO also brought plenty of laughs.
Check Your Yard for Low Spots
After a rainfall, inspect your yard for low spots where water collects. Mark these areas with paint or flags so you can revisit them once the ground is dry. Fill the depressions with quality topsoil. If the area is shallow, you can cover existing grass with an inch or two of soil—it will grow through. For deeper low spots, consider adding grass seed.
Inspect the Foundation Slope
While addressing low spots, check the grading around your home's foundation. Proper grading helps prevent water from pooling near the foundation, which can lead to water damage. Using an 8-foot 2x4 and a level, ensure the ground slopes away from your house at least 1/2 inch per foot. Add topsoil to correct any inadequate slopes and irregularities.
Clean Flower and Vegetable Beds
Prepare your flower and vegetable beds for spring planting by removing any debris, cutting back last year’s dead growth, and adding fresh compost and mulch. This will nourish the soil and improve plant growth.
Open Your Irrigation System
When restarting your irrigation system, conduct a thorough inspection. Malfunctioning systems can waste water and leave patches of your yard dry. Consider hiring a professional to ensure the system is in good working order.
Keep an updated map of your irrigation system. It’s useful for future projects like planting trees, installing fences, or adding patios. Plus, it’s a helpful document to pass along when selling your home.
Service Lawn and Garden Tools
Ensure your lawn and garden tools are ready for the season. Lubricate and sharpen shears, pruners, saw blades, mower blades, and shovels. Sharp tools make yard work easier and promote cleaner cuts for healthier plants.
If you followed October’s maintenance tips and winterized your gas-powered equipment, you should be set to add fresh fuel and get going. Otherwise, now is the time to change the oil, clean filters, check spark plugs, and ensure everything is operational. If you’re unsure, a professional tune-up is a good option.
Complete Quarterly Maintenance
Don’t forget your regular quarterly tasks. Change your furnace filter if you’re using a 4-inch filter, and run a cleaning tablet through your dishwasher and washing machine to keep them fresh and functioning well.
Ready for a Great Summer!
Following these simple tasks will help you maintain your home and yard for a beautiful and stress-free summer. And remember, if you ever need recommendations for reliable professionals, I’m here to help! After years of working with clients, I’ve built an extensive list of trusted experts.
Norwalk IA Real Estate – Jon Niemeyer
I’m Jon Niemeyer, a Broker Associate and REALTOR® with EXIT Realty and Associates. I specialize in buying and selling real estate throughout Central Iowa, including Norwalk, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Cumming, Indianola, Carlisle, Waukee, Urbandale, Grimes, Clive, Johnston, Ankeny, Altoona, and Pleasant Hill. I proudly serve Warren, Polk, Dallas, and Madison Counties.
đź“ž Call me at 515-490-4675, and let’s find your dream home in Central Iowa!
Recently I was showing homes in Ankeny to first-time-homebuyers and the subject of basements came up. It made me realize that not everyone is familiar with the different styles of basements we have in Central Iowa. This was the impetus for last week&
This Father’s Day, we reflect on how dads teach us lessons that stick—especially when it comes to owning and caring for a home.  Some of the best lessons I’ve learned about owning a home didn’t come from a YouTube tutori
April is an exciting time as spring finally arrives and nature begins to wake up! One theory about the month’s name suggests it comes from the Latin word aperio, meaning "to open"—a nod to the blossoming buds of spring.  The mo
Recently I was showing homes in Ankeny to first-time-homebuyers and the subject of basements came up. It made me realize that not everyone is familiar with the different styles of basements we have in Central Iowa. This was the impetus for last week&
This Father’s Day, we reflect on how dads teach us lessons that stick—especially when it comes to owning and caring for a home.  Some of the best lessons I’ve learned about owning a home didn’t come from a YouTube tutori