Are you seeking a picture-perfect lawn or just a healthy one? The results will depend on your effort. A healthy lawn needs some work on your part. Here are a few things to remember:
The type of grass – As a rule, low maintenance lawn care starts with healthy turf grass. Certain types of grass establish themselves better than others. They may do quite well with proper fertilising and watering. Some types of grass are more susceptible to pests and disease than others. These types may already have a problem or will need to have more care in order to prevent infestations. On the whole, ‘low mow’ and better fertilising can help achieve a healthy lawn without as much work.
The type of soil – Rich, black soil will produce a better turf than sandy soil. You can enhance the soil by adding the nutrients needed. Sometimes soil enrichment with topsoil or peat moss will be in order.
Condition of the lawn – Will reseeding or sodding be necessary? What pests or diseases are present in your lawn? Does your lawn show any signs of soil compaction?
Mowing – The general rule to follow is not to cut more than one third of the leaf surface off at once. By mowing the lawn once a week you will usually comply with this guideline. However, at times of peak growth you may need to cut every four or five days. There is no common height for all grasses. But each has its own optimal range. If you routinely cut them lower than that, they will not be as healthy and may begin to thin out and die. It is better to cut some of it a bit tall than to scalp portions of your lawn sharply. Nutrients from the clippings return to the soil and, in effect, fertilise the lawn. Lawns which don’t have clippings need 25-40% more fertiliser.
Hydroseeding – It is a process that uses a mix of cellulose fibre, seed, fertiliser and water. After being thoroughly mixed into a soupy consistency, it is sprayed on the lawn by machine. Sprouts will appear in as little as three days and you will have a fully established lawn in three weeks or less.
Watering – There are a lot of factors that determine the amount of water that your lawn needs. Consult a lawn-care professional as you determine how much and how often to water your lawn. Watering too frequently can cause more weeds, shallow grass roots and more chance of disease. Too much water will replace oxygen in the soil and the grass will die.
Seek professional help – If, despite your efforts, your lawn’s health is not up to the mark, seek professional help. An ailing area in your lawn is only a symptom of an underlying problem. A lawn-care professional will deal with the cause of the problem, whether it is insects, weeds or disease. This will ensure that the area will stay healthy.