Taking care of your lawn and garden is a labor of love. You work hard to do things just right, because you want what's best for your landscape. Below are some simple tips that will help you maintain a vibrant, healthy, green lawn each summer.
Follow product directions carefully.
When mixing or applying products to your lawn, be sure to read and follow the instructions included with the product. This will help you to avoid some potentially serious mistakes that could damage the lawn.
Learn to water the right way.
Ask your lawn care provider or research online what the correct watering practices are for your region. This will help maximize lawn response and conserve water.
Use the “Rule of Thirds” when mowing lawns.
Incorrect mowing practices are the leading cause of poor lawn results. Some homeowners try to reduce the number of times they mow by mowing too low, essentially “scalping” the grass. This can put the lawn into shock and allow weeds and insects to take over. For best results, adjust your mower to cut one-third or less of the blades’ length.
Sharpen mower blades.
Dull blades increase water loss from the plants, plus it requires more fuel to power the mower. You can tell if your blades need sharpening by looking for shredded leaves or a brown tip cast to the lawn.
Leave the lawn clippings and add to the lawn’s health.
Be sure to recycle your lawn clippings after each mow. Grass clippings benefit the lawn by recycling the nutrients found in the clippings. Mowing more frequently will help reduce the need to remove clippings. Plus the clippings return organic matter to the soil.
Use organic mulch to help conserve water and reduce weeds.
Mulch is not only beneficial to your landscape’s appearance but proper use of mulch will also help you conserve on water. Use a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch such as pine bark, shredded cedar, pine straw or compost around trees and shrubs to help keep the soil moist and deter weeds.
Consider drought-tolerant plants and grasses.
If you live in areas with minimal rainfall or water restrictions, be sure to purchase plants that will tolerate drought. Ask your lawn care provider for a list of plants that best handle the heat and dry conditions in your area.