Achieving a lush, healthy lawn doesn’t require a green thumb, just some consistent care and the right techniques. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or looking to improve your yard, these lawn care basics will help you get started.
Start With Your Soil
Healthy soil is the foundation of any great lawn. Test your soil to understand its pH and nutrient levels, which will guide your fertilizing and amendment choices. The MySoil Test Starter Pack that includes a soil probe is the perfect choice. Choose grass types that are well-suited to your climate and soil for best results. You can go to whatsmygrowzone.com to learn more about the best grass species for your growing zone. This article will help you learn How to Take a Soil Sample.
Mow for Height and Health
Mow regularly but never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. Set your mower to the recommended height for your grass type, typically between 2 and 3 inches. Keep mower blades sharp for clean cuts and healthier grass. Mow frequently for the best results. Although it seems like a lot, mowing two or even three times per week during the peak growth period will yield the best turf quality. Learn more about How Often and What Height to Mow.
Water Wisely
Most lawns need about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, depending on your region and the weather. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent disease. Avoid watering at night, as this can encourage fungal growth. Water deeply and less often to promote strong root systems. Use your soil probe to see how deep your moisture is and then adjust irrigation run times as necessary. This article, How Long Should I Water My Lawn, goes into more detail.
Fertilize
Fertilize your lawn based on your soil test results as this will match the plant and soil needs. Begin fertilizing in the spring and reapply the fertilizer every five to six weeks. Delay fertilizer application if you find the appearance of your lawn satisfactory. If you’re ready to get started, but don’t have time for a soil test, here are some region-specific programs that you can start with.
Control Weeds and Pests
Using a combination of pre-emergent and post-emergent strategies for weeds is best. Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied in the spring when soil temperatures consistently reach 50℉. Fall pre-emergent herbicides may be used as well if significant weed pressure is anticipated as soil temperatures drop. You have access to soil temperature information and notifications through your MySoil dashboard. A thick, healthy lawn naturally resists weeds and pests. Spot-treat problem areas as needed, hand pull weeds if density is low, and scout for other pests regularly so control can occur before populations are large. Consider organic or targeted solutions to minimize environmental impact.
Keep It Tidy
Rake leaves and remove debris to prevent disease and allow sunlight to reach the grass. Dethatch your lawn if the layer of dead grass and organic matter exceeds half an inch or feels spongy when you walk on it. Certain grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescues, zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, and bentgrass are more prone to thatch buildup and may need to be dethatched more frequently.
Invest in the Right Tools
Essential tools include a lawn mower, leaf rake, leaf blower, weed trimmer, and spreader. Choose tools that fit your yard size and preferences, whether gas, plug-in electric, or battery powered.
Seasonal Maintenance Snapshot
Spring: Clean up, test soil, fertilize, mow, irrigate as needed.
Summer: Water deeply, mow regularly, and scout for pests.
Fall: Fertilize, mow, and prepare for winter.
Winter: Reduce or stop mowing and keep the lawn clear of debris.
Optional Maintenance Practices
Aeration, overseeding, lawn leveling, and additions of soil amendments such as humic acid and biochar to enhance water and nutrient holding capacity.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful, resilient lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood.
Click Below For Additional Resources You May Find Helpful:
Share:
How Long Should I Water My Lawn?
Why Soil Test In The Fall?