CELEBRITY MATT BLASHAW OFFERS ADVICE FOR SPRING YARDS

It’s time to break out of the winter blues, clear off the ice and snow, and get ready for Spring!

If you want to create the perfect outdoor space for you and your family (or if you’re a fan of HGTV’s Yard Crashers), then you’ll definitely want to visit the Maryland Home + Garden Show on Saturday, February 28 or Sunday, March 1. During the first weekend of the show, Matt Blashaw, the host of Yard Crashers, will be on the Main Stage with great tips and answers to your questions in his “Live, Love, Landscape” presentation.

Matt will take to the stage in the Cow Palace at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium Saturday, February 28 at 4 PM and Sunday, March 1 at Noon.

Here’s what Matt is thinking about as we get ready for Spring.

What’s the first thing a homeowner should do after the winter to get their yard ready for warm weather?

After a long, tough winter, your soil will likely be compacted. First, clear all debris—whether leftover snow, fallen branches, or leaves—from your lawn and planter beds. Once it’s cleared, use a hand tiller (yes, that trusty weasel!) to loosen up the soil. This allows the warmth of spring to penetrate, and it helps air and sunlight reach deeper. Most importantly, it ensures water from your first spring watering can soak deep into the soil. That means healthier growth and vibrant spring blooms!

What’s the latest trend in outdoor spaces that you think will last?

A trend I see lasting is the rise of custom-built aluminum pergolas. These aren’t just the off-the-shelf versions you’d find at big-box stores. We’re talking pergolas with adjustable louvers that can shift between full shade or partial sunlight. They’re stunning to look at and incredibly functional—providing protection from rain, or opening up to suit the weather. While they’re more of an investment than standard options, they’re built to last for years, with virtually no maintenance—no staining, no splintering. It’s a lasting investment that will keep your family happy in the yard for many years to come.

What project should homeowners always have a contractor do rather than do themselves?

Homeowners should always rely on a contractor for hardscape projects—whether it’s pavers, concrete, or stonework. While small repairs might be manageable, installing pavers is an incredibly labor-intensive process. You need around six inches of properly compacted gravel, followed by a layer of aggregate, and then each paver must be precisely laid, with polymeric sand in between and mortared borders for stability. It’s heavy, meticulous work, but when done right, it will last for years. Once that’s in place, you can tackle the fun stuff—plants, pots, sprucing up beds, or hanging décor. But leave the heavy lifting to us contractors!

How can you keep your grass green and lush all year long?

Keeping grass lush all year is about consistent care. Aeration is key—if you don’t rent an aerator, a soil builder additive can open up the soil, bringing in oxygen and promoting deeper roots. In fall, aerate, dethatch, and overseed—preferably with a resilient seed, especially if you have pets. In spring and summer, proper watering is crucial. I recommend a smart system like Rachio to avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungus. Watch for brown patches—granular insecticides help keep pests away. When in doubt, consult your local sod dealer—they can test your soil and ensure your amendments are tailored for healthy, thriving grass all year long.

What one tool (beyond a rake and a shovel) every homeowner should have for their yard maintenance, and why?

I’m a huge fan of a hand tiller, often called a garden weasel. It’s fantastic for breaking up compacted soil, letting air and sunlight reach below the surface. When you’ve got bare patches in your lawn, just run the tiller over them to loosen the soil, toss on some seed, and you’re set for regrowth. Whether you’re working in garden beds or over your lawn, it’s an incredibly versatile tool that every homeowner should have.

What is most rewarding about transforming a homeowner's outdoor space?

The most rewarding part is hearing from homeowners that they’re constantly using it. I aim to create spaces that are not only beautiful but fully functional year-round—whether that means providing heat when it’s chilly or fans when it’s hot. Ultimately, I want the space to be so practical and enjoyable that they truly live in it—making sure their investment is something they get to appreciate every day.

What is the biggest mistake that many homeowners make in renovating their outdoor space?

One of the biggest mistakes in outdoor renovations is focusing purely on aesthetics rather than function. For instance, placing a barbecue island too far from the house or positioning shade structures that don’t actually provide shade during the hottest part of the day. It’s essential to think beyond just beautiful materials or finishes—functionality is key. When beauty and practicality merge, that’s when you get a truly perfect outdoor space.