If you have been thinking about installing a lawn or inherited one, you may have questions or concerns. Here is a list of frequently asked questions on lawn care, and some tips to help you decide if having a lawn is the right for you.
Do I need to water my lawn?
It is recommended that you water your lawn regularly, especially on hotter days in order to keep it looking healthy. When deprived of water for longer periods grass will become dried up and produce brown patches. Installing an irrigation system can save you a lot of time by automating the watering process.
What are the benefits of raking my lawn?
The main purpose of raking your lawn is to remove any excess buildup of yard debris such as grass or leaves. Such accumulation is not good for the health of your lawn and can cause patches, encourage fungus growth, and infestation.
How often should you cut your lawn and what height?
On average, cutting your lawn once per week should be enough, but this formula all depends on the time of the year and geographic location. When it comes to height things can get a little more specific. You will need to cut according to the type of grass. For example, bentgrass can tolerate a shorter cut while tall fescues need to be mowed taller.
Should I use pesticides on my lawn and what are the effects?
The short answer is no. Chemicals such as those found in pesticides are a bad idea for numerous reasons. These chemicals can be unhealthy for humans, pets, and the environment. If you have kids, they are most likely to be exposed to these chemicals when playing in the grass. Likewise, pets such as dogs are just as vulnerable since they have a habit of digging and eating grass. Instead, try products containing none toxic or natural ingredients as a means of controlling an infestation.
My dog is destroying my lawn. How can I avoid this after I repair the area?
Though dogs and lawn care may not seem like the ideal match, they are ways to work around this. When reseeding try using a high traffic grass seed mix in areas frequently used. Make sure that you keep your dog off your lawn until it has had time to establish roots. Some other factors that can worsen the effects your dog is having on your lawn are digging and damage from there a leash dragging across the grass. Try removing leash before letting them on the lawn or creating a designated area for pets.
If you feel like you are not up for the task or simply do not have the time, consider hiring a lawn care professional. Lawn maintenance is a huge industry, that provides services to millions of individuals each year. There are numerous qualified experts that are readily available to assist with your lawn care needs. You can find many of these businesses in your local directory or listed on popular sites such as Angie’s List or Home Advisor. Depending on what your lawn care needs are, you may be able to get a quick quote by proving them with details.
