Our lawns and landscapes need year-round care in Bakersfield’s warm, humid climate.

Transform your Central Valley landscape into a dream come true with our seasonal lawn care guide, tailored for Bakersfield.

Spring

• Lawn Care: Mow lawn around April when grass growth picks up or when it is 3 inches or taller.
• Planting: Add drought-tolerant and native California plants.
• Irrigation: Before the heat of summer arrives, activate or install a water-efficient irrigation system.
• Fertilizing: Add fertilizer to plants and lawns to ensure healthy growth.
• Mulching: Cover garden beds with a new layer of mulch to retain water and keep common California weeds out.
• Shrub Pruning: Cut back shrubs to promote healthy new growth.
• Fencing: This is a good time to repair, upgrade, or install fences.
• Hardscaping: Start outdoor projects such as decks, patios, stamped concrete, or paver walkways before it gets hot.
• Landscape lighting: To enjoy the evenings, install or maintain your outdoor lighting.

Summer

• Lawn Care: Maintain routine mowing and cut the grass a bit longer to save water.
• Irrigation: Stay within Bakersfield water conservation guidelines, watering deeply but not often.
• Pruning: Trim heat-stressed growth and lightly shape.
• Reseed: If needed, you can apply new grass seed over bare spots.
• Hardscapes: Maintain your outdoor space and consider installing a misting system to stay cool.
• Landscape lighting: Enjoy the cooler evenings longer with updated outdoor lighting.
• Fencing: Protect your fence from the weather by sealing or painting.

Fall

• Lawn Care: Grass will continue to grow until about November, so keep up your mowing routine.
• Leaf Cleanup: Remove leaf debris or hire a local leaf removal crew.
• Mulch: Apply fresh mulch if needed to protect your plants' roots.
• Planting: Ideal time to plant winter annuals, spring bulbs, or a cool-season vegetable garden.
• Irrigation: Ensure your sprinkler system is drained and winterized before the average first frost date of December 11. 
• Fencing: Complete repairs and installations before winter weather arrives.
• Hardscaping: Enjoy cool winter nights with a pergola or fire pit in your backyard.
• Landscape Lighting: Ensure security and landscaping lights are working well or install new ones.

Winter

• Lawn care: As grass growth slows, usually between December and February, mow only as needed.
• Pruning: During their dormant period you can trim roses, bushes, and deciduous trees.
• Planting: Winter is the ideal time for planting bare-root shrubs and fruit trees.
• Planning: Budget and design future landscaping projects like fencing, xeriscaping, or upgrades.

Turn your yard into a stunning, water-wise retreat with LawnStarter’s local Bakersfield landscaping pros. A free quote and a tranquil oasis are just a few clicks away.