Developing a consistent Lawn and Garden Care routine each season helps maintain the health of your yard. A well-cared-for lawn looks good and reduces the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Practices like aerating the soil, dethatching, mowing the lawn frequently and correctly, and removing leaves help prevent lawn diseases and insect infestations. In addition, harvesting rainwater, using mulches instead of grass clippings for bed covering, and switching to organic fertilizers reduce the amount of chemicals used in your yard.
Lawn and Garden Care: Essential Tips for a Lush and Healthy Yard
Weeds have an easier time invading weak lawns, so regular maintenance can keep them under control. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide before annual weed seeds germinate (usually in March and April) or post-emergent herbicide after weeds have sprouted helps contain weed growth. Aerating the lawn improves drainage and allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots more easily. Spreading topsoil also improves soil condition and allows grasses to compete with weeds.
A laboratory soil test gives you important information about the makeup of your soil, which influences how the lawn and other plants grow. The test will tell you the proportion of sand, silt, and clay soil in your lawn; this information helps you tailor your maintenance program to suit your property’s specific needs. Applying the recommended soil amendments (like lime) will correct problems and give your lawn a better chance to outcompete weeds and thrive. Organic, slow-release fertilizers are an excellent alternative to water-soluble chemical fertilizers.