A landowner’s job does not end at planting. One must also ensure that the lawn stays in tiptop shape. The lush and green lawn you usually see in movies is something you can achieve. Just follow the steps for lawn maintenance, and you get a picture-perfect lawn.
Provide nutrients
Just like humans need nutrients for maintenance, your lawn needs it too. These nutrients come from water, sunlight, and feed. Watering is essential for lawn maintenance. A lawn without enough water will be dehydrated and change in color. The amount and frequency will depend on a lot of factors. You have to consider the type of soil, as well as the weather conditions in your area. Although watering deep and less frequent is better than light and more frequent.
Part of watering is improving the drainage system. Watering enough to soak 6 to 8 inches deep will promote healthy roots formation. Generally, it is recommended to water early morning. The water will not evaporate quickly compared to when you do it in the afternoon. Also, the water will help cool the lawn as the temperature starts to climb. You do not want your lawn to be soggy for several hours or days. It may lead to other complications for your plants.
As part of lawn maintenance feeding your plants will add nutrients to the soil. Suppose you can opt for slow-acting granular fertilizer. Apply it once to twice a year. A granular fertilizer will release nutrients slowly over several months. The most appropriate time to put fertilizer is during Fall. It will help in strengthening the plants’ root structure. You may also add natural fertilizers like compost and manure. Remember that anything too much is harmful. Be mindful of the number of nutrients you are giving your plants.
Give your lawn a trim
Give your lawn a trim for quick lawn maintenance care. Long and clumpy grass blades will block nutrients from reaching the roots. When it comes to mowing, a rule of thumb is only to remove 1/3 of the length of the grasses. The frequency will depend on the time of the year and the weather conditions. During cold seasons, mowing is reduced. While in summer, you may have to mow as frequently as possible since grasses grow quicker.
Remember to mow only when the soil is dry or wet. Wet grass blades will clump together. It will then be easier for the mower to pluck it off completely. Alternate the direction of your mowing now and then. Push the mower east and west and try it north and south. Check up on your mower’s blades too. A blunt mower will pull your grass from its roots.
Protect your lawn
Look out for pesky items/organisms which will sap the nutrients for your lawn. They will be a problem with your lawn maintenance. Weeds can appear anywhere. And once they start growing, it won’t be easy to control them. The easiest method to remove them is by pulling out the whole weed with its roots. You may also use herbicides, it will be much easier. However, be careful as some herbicides may pose harm to other healthy plants.
Look out for pests. Bugs may destroy some of your grass. You can quickly treat infestations by spraying insecticides. Use insecticides, which will only kill harmful insects. Some insects may be suitable for your lawn. If you don’t want to use insecticides, let ants and spiders roam on your lawn. They will prey on lawn pests, making your job easier.
A common cause of lawn diseases is fungi. Your soil has the capabilities to fight fungi on its own. However, you may also help fight it off by using a fungicide.
Thatching
For lawn maintenance, remove thatch. Thatch consists of dead organic matters. They may form a heavy blanket, which will then block nutrients from penetrating your lawn. Your best solution in removing thatch is through scarification. It involves raking thatch from your lawn.
Care for your soil
A healthy lawn will thrive on healthy soil. For lawn maintenance, check on your ground. Be sure to aerate it, especially in areas where there is heavy foot traffic. This process will allow water and air to penetrate the roots of your grass. To do this, poke your soil at certain intervals and depths. You may use garden forks to create small holes.
Lawn maintenance may sound like a lot of work, but it’s pretty easy. Plus, all your time and effort will not be useless. In the end, a lush and thriving lawn will be waiting for you.
