Back to Basics: What Your Lawn is Asking For

Creating that perfect outdoor space to relax in, play in and entertain in all year long takes a lot of work. It can seem as if there’s an endless list of things to do to have green grass, beautiful flowers and trimmed trees without leaves on every surface beneath them. So we’re taking you back to basics and letting you know what you should consider doing to have the best outdoor living environment you want.

Seasonal care requirements

Reseed your lawn: Usually, turf renovation is done during the fall months, before the ground freezes but after the hot summer months. You can reseed your entire lawn, or target just browning or thinned out areas.

Fertilize grass and other plants: This is usually done in the fall, in conjunction with reseeding. When you fertilize, you’re feeding the plants the nutrients it needs to grow and flourish, creating a beautiful display of color in your yard.

Pest control applications: The time of year you should apply a pesticide depends on what pest you are targeting.

• For weeds, this is often done in the spring, as a pre-emergent herbicide, to stop the seeds from germinating. It can also be done with a post-emergent application during the summer or later months of the year (when you see weeds coming up).
• If you need to target an insect infestation, you can apply an insecticide as soon as you notice it.
• When disease takes over your lawn, shrub or tree, applying a fungicide that targets that disease can help. Read the label for application rates and targeted fungi.

Regular needs on a weekly or monthly basis

Water: You’ll want to do this more than just once a week, but the exact frequency will depend on your plants’ needs, soil moisture levels and rainfall. One size fits all may not work for your yard. A professional can help you get your irrigation system set up to a schedule that can benefit your yard.

Mow: Mowing your grass is important to keep it healthy. When you regularly mow, you help get water and fertilizer to the soil, where it can be taken in by the roots. Most of the time, keeping grass between two and three inches is good. This height will help encourage deeper roots and reduce weed problems.

Mulch: Mulching around your plants (and in your grass, especially during renovation) can help with weed control and maintaining a proper soil moisture level. Mulching can be added to your to-do list when you notice the past mulch application has thinned.

Pruning and trimming: Keeping shrubs and flowers trimmed and pruned can help to reduce the dead stems and leaves from taking up space. It also ensures that when you water and fertilize, you are getting that needed care to healthy parts of the plant that will use it.

For professional services, Hart and Sons Landscape can provide a one-time service or get you on a plan for year-round, hassle-free maintenance. You don’t need to do it all alone — let us help! Contact us today for a free estimate of the work you need done to your yard.