Six Tips to Achieve a Perfect Lawn

Your lawn can be the envy of the neighborhood, just follow the steps below!

1. Don’t scalp your lawn

It takes time and effort to keep your lawn looking perfect and taking a little more off the top is one way of adding time between cuttings. Doing this can cause the grass to burn leaving ugly brown spots because the grass uses the extra length to absorb the sun to grow into a healthy plant. A good rule of thumb is to only cut off one third of the length of the grass.

2. Recycle clippings

One way to save time (versus bagging) and help your lawn is to recycle your grass clippings. Use a mulching blade set to the proper mowing height and cut only 1/3 off the length of your grass. Your clippings will quickly break down adding vital nutrients back into the soil once they decompose.

3. Sharpen your blades

It is important to have sharp blades when you mow so that the grass gets a clean cut. Sharp blades cut the grass, but dull blades will tear at the grass leaving brown lines across the top and jagged edges giving the appearance of an overall brown and ragged lawn. This can also make your lawn more susceptible to disease. If your lawn doesn’t have a clean cut take the blades to your local hardware store, lawn mower mechanic or click here to find a local authorized dealer to get them sharpened. Blade sharpening should be done once a season.

4. Get out the sprinkler

It’s best to water your grass less often and more thoroughly for a healthy lawn, check with local bylaw to find out what the watering regulations are for your area. Most grasses need 1-5 inches of water each week, moistening the soil 4-6 inches below the surface. It is important not to over-water so that you don’t cause major damage to your lawn.

5. Use a well-balanced fertilizer

A healthy, thick lawn will help to reduce weeds and the correct fertilizer is one small step to help make your lawn thicker and brighter. Although watering is recommended weekly, fertilizing is only recommended four times a year. Look for an organic fertilizer that is free from potentially harmful insecticides and pesticides if you are concerned about the safety of your children or pets.

6. Maintain your lawn

If you want the best lawn on the street the best way is through consistent, small lawn care maintenance. To keep your lawn looking luscious throw grass seed down on any bare spots and spot treat pesky weeds with a pre-emergent chemical or herbicide. With regular maintenance most lawns won't need a major overhaul to look beautiful.