Lawn care maintenance involves many elements that include mowing, thatch control, fertilizing and irrigation to produce a healthy, high-quality, dense lawn. One aspect that’s often overlooked by homeowners is the importance of good mowing techniques. Mowing greatly influences lawn uniformity, density and aesthetic appeal.
Grass can be mowed frequently, as long as no more than one third of the blade is removed in a single session. Also, mow as high as possible – low mowing makes the root system shallow. The roots can’t absorb enough nutrients and water, making the lawn prone to drought stress.
- MOWER: The mower must have the power and capacity to handle the space being mowed. Consider ease of adjustment, maneuverability, weight, ease in starting, and safety features. For a good quality cut, keep the blades sharp. Choose a mulching-type mower that recycles grass clippings.
- FERTILITY: The implementation of a well-balanced fertilizing program is one of the most important aspects of lawn care maintenance. Grass needs three main ingredients – nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.
- CLIPPINGS: Experts in lawn care maintenance say you should leave the clippings on the lawn every third time you mow. They contain vital nutrients and water.
- WATER: Too much can cause fertilizer leaching, thatch, disease, and grassy weed problems. Too little can cause shallow rooting which makes the lawn susceptible to injury or disease.
The above practices are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to lawn care maintenance. If you don’t have the time or tools to keep your garden looking beautiful all year round, why not leave it the hands of a professional lawn care service?