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The first step is killing any current nutgrass plants, either through application of herbicides or sugar, by digging up the plants and rhizomes, or by using soil solarization. To discourage new nutgrass plants from forming, ensure proper landscape drainage and bring shade into areas of the lawn that are consistently damp.

The best fertilizer for early spring is an organic slow-release fertilizer that sets up your lawn for continued good health and vigorous growth throughout the whole growing season. If your lawn is particularly neglected or has specific issues, you may need an application of quick-release fertilizer alongside a slow-release one for an immediate boost. 

If your grass is stressed from being over-trimmed, try watering it heavily and then allowing it to recover for at least two weeks before mowing again. If you notice brown patches where the grass has died off because it’s too short, you should remove the dead grass and overseed the area. Leaving dead patches can invite weeds and other problems, so if you want a totally green lawn, getting rid of dead patches should include removing the dead sections before reseeding the area.

Look for a broadleaf herbicide, one that has been formulated specifically for dandelions and is considered grass-safe.