Outdoor Property Maintenance Spring Cleaning: Equipment and Tips

Spring is nearly here, which means spring cleaning is right around the corner. For landscaping pros and anyone who manages large properties, that means ramping up your outdoor property maintenance chops to clean up after the winter months and get your greenery ready for the warmer weather. 

To get that done effectively and efficiently, you need the right tools and know how to best use them. Here is a look at some of the essential Toro turf equipment for sprucing up your spaces this spring and tips for how to best use them.

Lawn Mowers

Mowers are workhorses of any outdoor maintenance crew. But choosing the right ones for the types and sizes of properties you service is key to working smarter, not harder. That’s why commercial property owners and professional landscapers alike appreciate the durability and efficiency that Toro mowers bring to the table.

For expansive commercial properties, Toro’s Groundsmaster® Readies 4000 Series stands out with its wide cutting paths, impressive fuel efficiency, and optional features like the exclusive Infinity® Mowing System for a pristine, professional finish.

Toro’s Fairway mowers‘ reel-cutting systems, which slice through the grass blades instead of tearing them like traditional rotary mowers do, are great for sports fields, golf courses, and the like. This more precise cut and the Reelmaster Series’ maneuverability minimize the risk of scalping the turf, which can damage the lawn and hinder spring growth.

For smaller areas or delicate landscaping, the compact and maneuverable Toro TimeCutter® Stand-On Mower shines. Its zero-turn capabilities and comfortable standing platform allow for precise mowing and operator comfort, even in tight spaces.

Toro Revolution mowers offer a different set of advantages compared to Fairway models. While they may not excel in the same areas like superior cut quality or specific golf course needs, their focus on performance, efficiency, durability, comfort, and versatility makes them excellent choices for landscaping professionals and large property managers looking for a reliable and versatile partner for spring turf preparation and ongoing lawn care.

To get ready for the season’s first jobs, take the time to inspect and sharpen the blades on all your mowers. When you maintain your mowers in good condition, you not only improve cutting performance but also contribute to the turf’s overall health by preventing uneven cuts and stress on the grass.

Leaf Blowers

You’ll have plenty of fallen leaves and debris to contend with on every property you service this spring. Efficient cleanup is key, and Toro’s line of leaf blowers provides the necessary power and precision in a wide array of options, such as:

• Handheld Electric: These are lightweight and affordable, ideal for small yards or quick cleanups. They come in corded and cordless (battery-powered) options. Popular models include the Power Sweep 51585 (corded) and the Toro Revolution 60V Max Leaf Blower Cannon (cordless).
• Handheld Gas: More powerful than electric models, tackling larger yards and heavier debris. They tend to be heavier and louder, though. Look into the PowerJet F700 140 mph for a good gas option.
• Backpack: Best for large jobs and sustained use, offering comfort and power with the weight distributed on your back. Toro’s Power Sweep Backpack Leaf Blower is a strong contender in this category.
• Wheeled: Provide superior power and stability for extensive areas and heavy debris. They’re less maneuverable but excel in efficiency. Toro’s Ultra Plus Leaf Blower Vac is a popular wheeled model.

Trimming and Edging

Toro trimmers and edgers are the perfect tools for getting that polished appearance. Toro offers a range of products to suit just about any need, including:

• 20V Max Cordless: Lightweight and affordable trimmers/edgers ideal for small yards and quick tasks. You get grab-and-go convenience with quick line feed system with the Toro 51484 trimmer/edger for effortless small yard touch-ups.
• 60V Max Flex-Force Power System: A powerful and more versatile option for professionals who handle medium to large yards and prioritize cordless operation, lower maintenance, and reduced emissions. With the 60V Max Revolution Battery PRO String Trimmer, backpack comfort meets pro-grade power for efficient edging and trimming on larger landscapes.
• Electric Corded: More powerful than 20V Max options, suitable for medium-sized yards. Corded design ensures consistent power but limits mobility. The Toro 51480A 14-inch string trimmer is a great option to tackle medium-sized yards with ease thanks to the dual-line cutting head and adjustable speed control for precise trimming.
• Gas-Powered: These models are the most potent choice for large properties and heavy-duty tasks. They offer excellent performance but require maintenance and produce emissions. Your crew can easily tame tough weeds and thick brush with the Toro 55220 curved shaft string trimmer, ideal for expansive properties where maneuverability isn’t a key concern.

Irrigation Systems

Spring is the perfect time to inspect and optimize your irrigation system for the upcoming growing season. Toro’s Aqua-Traxx Drip Tape is an innovative solution that provides precise and uniform watering, promoting the health of plants while minimizing water wastage. 

Commercial property owners, turf management pros, and landscape maintenance professionals can benefit from Toro’s irrigation solutions, ensuring sustainable and efficient water distribution across the landscape.

In addition to checking the irrigation system, it’s crucial to inspect and adjust sprinkler heads for optimal coverage. This proactive approach prevents uneven watering and ensures that every inch of the property receives the necessary hydration for healthy growth.

De-Thatching and Aeration

Beyond surface-level maintenance, soil health is a critical factor in achieving a vibrant landscape. Addressing thatch buildup and compacted soil is essential for promoting optimal soil conditions. 

Toro’s walk-behind aerators and de-thatchers are indispensable tools for this purpose. The Toro ProCore SR Series Aerators penetrate compacted soil, allowing nutrients, water, and air to reach the roots. Paired with the Toro SGR-13 Stump Grinder for efficient thatch removal, these tools contribute to a healthier and more resilient landscape and landscape design.

As part of the spring maintenance routine, schedule aeration and de-thatching activities when the soil is moist but not overly saturated. This allows the equipment to penetrate the soil effectively, promoting improved water and nutrient absorption.

Versatile Utility Vehicles for Efficient Transport

Large commercial properties often require efficient means of transport for tools, equipment, and personnel. Toro’s Workman utility vehicles are designed for versatility and durability. With options for cargo beds and passenger seating, these utility vehicles streamline outdoor property maintenance, ensuring that all necessary equipment is readily available for the task at hand. 

Regular maintenance checks, including inspecting tires and lubricating moving parts, keep these utility vehicles operating smoothly throughout the season.

Safety Measures and Training

Alongside the choice of equipment, prioritizing safety measures and providing training for operators is paramount. Toro turf equipment comes equipped with safety features, and it’s essential to ensure that all users are trained on proper usage and maintenance protocols. Regular safety briefings and equipment checks contribute to a secure working environment, minimizing the risk of accidents on the job.

Get Ready for Spring Today

As spring unfolds, outdoor property maintenance becomes a chore of opportunity—a chance to create vibrant and welcoming environments for all to enjoy. To take advantage of these opportunities, Toro offers a comprehensive range of tools designed to meet the diverse needs of commercial property owners, professional landscapers, and turf managers. 

By investing in Toro’s innovative solutions and following these spring cleaning tips, maintaining an outdoor space becomes a proactive endeavor, ensuring that commercial properties stand out with lush, well-manicured landscapes that leave a lasting impression.