Lawn Maintenance

4 Important Keys To Thicker, Greener Lawns

• Fertilization - Regular applications of LESCO fertilizer throughout the growing season builds turf density and keeps weeds from taking over. We suggest a five step fertilization program: Early Spring we suggest applying nutrients to enhance healthy growth as well as a pr-emergent for crabgrass and broadleaf control, late spring we suggest applying an additional treatment for weed control as the temperatures begin to increase, in the summer treat for grubs and weed control, early fall treat with nutrients to restore the lawn after the harsh conditions of summer long with a final treatment for broadleaf control, finally in the late fall apply a treatment of lime to promote root growth during the winter months.
• Mowing Tips - Determining when to mow should be based on the growth rate of the grass, not the calendar. You can keep your lawn looking its best by removing only about one-third of the leaf blade each time you mow. Cutting the grass too low can cause the lawn to burn and die due to the harsh sun as well as fungus to occur. Mulching while mowing enables the grass to break down and return the nutrients back into the soil.
• Proper Watering - Deep watering to a soil depth of at least six inches is recommended. During the hottest, driest months, your lawn should receive approximately 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Light applications of water that merely dampen the grass are of little benefit and can actually harm your lawn. The best time to water your lawn is in the morning. Midday watering, when the weather is hot and dry, can waste water due to excessive evaporation. Evening watering tends to promote disease problems. Keep in mind, the key to effective watering is to give your lawn enough moisture to reach the deep roots of the grass plants at the right time of the day.
• Thatching/Aeration/Seeding - Spring and fall are the perfect time to give your lawn some priming. Thatching is best done in early spring, before the height of the growing season kicks in. Lawns develop a layer of thatch that sits on top of the soil which can cause the roots to separate from the soil, preventing water and fertilizer to penetrate. This could eventually cause the grass to dry out, discolor and die. After thatching a seeding is suggested in any sparse spots of the lawn after thatching. Aeration is best done in the fall, to mend any damaged caused by mowing and harsh sun conditions. Aerating the lawn increases moisture penetration, enhances oxygen levels in the lawn, reduces soil compaction, allows the seed to sit in the ground itself to minimize loss of seed due to rainy conditions and hungry critters and increases the penetration of fertilizers. An additional seeding is suggested in any sparse areas to protect the lawn from the harsh winter weather.