Follow A Fertilizer Schedule
The Scotts Company, a major fertilizer producer, suggests applying lawn fertilizers in four increments. Naturally, the dates will differ depending on your location. Another important consideration is the sort of grass you cultivate. Always read the package labels thoroughly before using them, and get staff’s advice at local garden stores or local extension services. If you live in the northeast United States and have a lawn made up of a combination of cool-season grasses, you might begin by feeding it with a pre-emergent fertilizer in May to keep crabgrass at bay. Then, follow it up in June with another lawn fertilizer that performs two roles simultaneously.
The additional function (besides fertilizing) in this case is weed control. For the latter, you’ll need a product with a post-emergent herbicide to kill weeds that have sprouted in your grass. Don’t forget to winterize your yard in the fall. It’s not difficult to recall which fertilizers to buy for this season because they will frequently include “winterizer” in their names. These products help your grass develop a more robust root system to survive the winter
Mowing At The Right Height
Cutting the lawn with a mower set at the correct mowing height can save you from having to bag your grass clippings, even if you don’t own a mulching mower. When your grass is dry and 3 to 3-1/2 inches tall, mow it. Never cut it lower than 2 to 2-1/2 inches or remove more than one-third of the leaf surface during a single trim. The idea of this grooming tip is that the nutrients in the grass clippings may benefit your lawn if they are left where they fall after mowing. The bulk of the grass clippings will be low if you follow this guideline and only take an inch off the top of your lawn at a time. This mowing technique entails more frequent cutting, so you’ll have to sharpen your mower blade more often.
However, the result will be a healthier lawn that receives nutrients that would otherwise be hauled away. Furthermore, maintaining a neat and trim appearance increases the thickness of the grass. You are, in fact, “pinching” your grass plants each time you mow them, the same as you would with many houseplants or garden flowers to make them sturdier. Keep in mind that with mulching mowers, you don’t have to be as cautious about the height of your lawn since the grass clippings are smaller. This is much more practical for individuals who don’t wear tape measures on their belts daily.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting a perfect green lawn requires some effort, but it’s well worth it in the end. By following the tips outlined in this article, you’ll be sure to have a lush, healthy lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood. Also, don’t forget to contact your local garden store or extension service for more specific advice. Then, with a little bit of knowledge and elbow grease, you’ll have a green lawn that you can be proud of.
