Winter's gone and your lawn's a mess? Today you'll learn how to help your lawn spring back after a six-month-long winter's nap. Here's how it's done. Start by taking a soil sample. Your local county extension office will do an inexpensive analysis that tells you exactly what fertilizer you need, and if it changed since last year. Then consult your garden center before you reseed to be sure you have the best and latest variety. New stronger drought-resistant and heat-resistant types constantly are being introduced. When things start to grow, don't mow too low. Cutting grass too short, especially the first time, can harm the lawn and lead to root damage -- making it more susceptible to plant diseases, insects and the heat of scorching sun. As a rule of thumb, never trim off more than a third. Finally, an inch of water once a week is enough. To avoid over-watering, set out a rain gauge to be sure "Mother Nature" hasn't already provided. For more tips, visit our Web site at onthehouse.com. And that's the On The House tip for today.