Small, little improvements can go a long way! Here are some quick maintenance tips to improve the overall appeal and health of your lawn.
Aerating: This is the process of puncturing numerous holes in the ground with either a rod or an automatic machine at a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Once you are finished, it is a great time to feed your lawn with Schultz Fertilizers or overseed to improve the overall health and beauty of your lawn. Topdressing, after aerating, with organic material like Compost or Peat Moss improves soil structure for stronger turf in the long-run. Aerating is always a good idea when you have soil compaction and is extremely effective for loosening the soil. Aeration creates a healthy root zone by increasing air space and allows water and fertilizer penetration to reach the roots. The optimal time for warm season grasses is in the spring/early summer and for cool season grasses is in the fall. Be sure to give your lawn time to repair before cool season dormancy occurs.
Water: Be sure to water deeply enough to reach the roots. One inch of water per week is an ideal amount, but it is important you don’t soak your lawn. Try our one time, easy solution to confirm your lawn receives the proper amount of water.
You will need:
- Short, plastic containers (Tupperware, Rubbermaid, etc.)
- Stopwatch
- Hose / Sprinkler
- A “Can-Do” attitude
First, place the containers evenly throughout your lawn. Then turn on your sprinkler and start your stopwatch. While watering, observe the containers. Once they reach approximately one inch of water, turn off your sprinkler and record the time from your stopwatch. Make sure all containers are around one inch of water to ensure even distribution. Based on your findings, make proper adjustments to the placement of your sprinkler. This process will help you find the best location for your sprinkler as well as the ideal amount of time to water.
Mowing: It is important to cut your grass correctly in order to reduce damage and increase its quality. Mow a maximum of 1/3rd of the blade for a proper trim. It is recommended to keep your lawn longer during the hot summer months to reduce heat and drought stress. Make sure the mower blades are always sharp and clean.
Greening: For a quick greening, try using a Lawn Fertilizer with Iron. Iron increases the potential for a thicker, greener turf. Iron also helps develop a deep root system, which prevents weeds from growing and creates an overall healthier lawn.
Dethatch: The removal of thatch helps maintain a healthy lawn. Decomposing grass, stems, dead roots and yard debris is considered thatch. It prevents water, sun, and fertilizer from reaching the roots. It is also a place for disease and insects to hide. Be sure to remove from your lawn anytime thatch is present.
Overseeding: In the Spring and Fall, adding grass seed to your current lawn increases overall appearance and thickens your yard. To overseed, first mow the lawn short and rake out the thatch. Then aerate to loosen the soil. Plant the grass seed, such as Kentucky 41, evenly with either a drop or rotary spreader. Water immediately after planting and continue to water daily until the grass begins to grow. Let grass become well established before the first mow.
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