Spring Inspection Report

Why this inspection matters — Spring (Sep–Nov)

Spring is the highest-risk season for presentation failures. Growth accelerates fast, turf wakes up unevenly, weeds exploit bare patches, and irrigation that was idle all winter often has faults. Getting on top of this in the first site visit prevents compounding problems through summer.

Focus areas this season:

Turf — identify areas that didn't recover from winter; broadleaf weeds before they seed
Irrigation — commission all zones, test heads and valves under pressure, fix leaks before summer
Pruning — remove dead winter wood, shape shrubs before the growth flush
Mulch — top up to 100mm before soil warms; suppresses weeds and retains moisture
Fertiliser — spring application drives density; apply when soil temp above 12°C
Pest & disease — warm humid weather triggers fungal issues; monitor turf early

Turf Condition

Coverage and health

Turf colour healthy — no significant yellowing or browning

Pale areas from winter dormancy are normal if under 10% coverage

No bare patches or thinning areas

Measure and record bare patches for renovation planning

No compaction — turf spongy underfoot on high-traffic areas

Hard soil on desire lines = schedule coring this spring

Weed coverage under 5% — no broadleaf weeds seeding

Catch broadleaf weeds before they set seed — highest priority

Edges sharp and defined against paths, kerbs and garden beds

No disease symptoms — no brown patch or fungal rings

Warm humid nights = high fungal risk; catch at first signs

Seasonal spring actions

Spring fertiliser applied or scheduled

Apply when soil temp above 12°C; slow-release NPK recommended

Mow height confirmed — lowered from winter setting

Spring: 25–35mm. Raise back to 40–50mm for summer.

Renovation areas (coring / top dressing) identified and flagged

Turf notes

Garden Beds

Condition

All plants healthy — no significant dead or dying stock

Weed coverage under 5% in all beds

Mulch at or above 80mm — top up to 100mm this visit if below

Spring mulch suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture through summer

Bed edges clean — no turf encroachment, mulch contained on bed

Mulch clear of plant stems and tree trunks

No pest or disease signs on shrubs or groundcovers

Seasonal spring actions

Spring fertiliser applied or scheduled for garden beds

Dead winter wood removed from shrubs before growth flush

Plant replacements identified and logged with species and location

Garden bed notes

Irrigation

All zones commissioned and tested under pressure

Spring commissioning — run every zone, check for winter damage

No leaks at heads, valves or lateral lines

All heads rotate and cover correctly — none blocked or deflected

Controller reprogrammed for spring schedule

Increase run times from winter; water early morning only

Rain sensor operational

No run-off onto paths, roads or gutters

Irrigation faults found

Trees, Hard Surfaces and Structures

No visible deadwood, broken or hanging branches

Clearances maintained — 3m above paths, clear of lights and signage

Stakes and ties inspected — no girdling, no failed ties

All paths and hard surfaces blown clean

No trip hazards — lifted edging, roots, damaged paving

Drains and pits clear — no leaf or debris blockages

Trees and structures notes

Defects and Recommended Works

List all defects found and any recommended works — whether within the maintenance contract or items to quote separately.