When you look out the window on a cold winter day, you’re probably dreaming about enjoying digging your toes into a lush lawn in the summer. And, you’re probably thinking about all the work it takes to make a lawn toe-worthy all summer long. Here are some property maintenance tips for maintaining a healthy lawn throughout the year in Westchester County, NY.
Related: A CHECKLIST FOR WINTER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE IN BRIARCLIFF MANOR, NY
Water
Healthy turf relies on deep roots. This means infrequent deep watering at the right time of day (early morning) so that water seeps well into the soil where it will encourage strong root growth. A regular watering schedule will support a healthy lawn that is naturally resistant to weather extremes, disease, pests, and weeds.
Soil Amendment and Fertilizer
Not all soils are optimal for turf growth. Poor soil can be amended, and grass can be fertilized. However, there’s a science to it. Fertilization should be done on an as-needed basis that is determined by soil testing as well as the current state of the lawn and its upcoming needs (i.e. winter dormancy, spring growth, summer heat, fall pre-dormancy). Over-fertilizing is just as bad as under-fertilizing, and it’s important to use the right fertilizer and employ proper techniques for good results.
Aeration
Lawn aeration will keep your lawn lush, green, and healthy by reducing compaction from traffic, the weight of snow, and dehydrated soil. Without regular aeration, air, water, and nutrients won’t penetrate to the root system. Without aeration, even proper watering and fertilizing won’t be as effective.
De-thatching and Leaf Mulching
Thatch is a thick layer of dead grass that accumulates below the level of the lawnmower blade. Left unchecked, thatch essentially suffocates the roots by creating a barrier against water, air, and nutrients. Regular de-thatching will stimulate new growth. Mulching fallen leaves and spreading them throughout the lawn is a cost-effective way to add organic nutrients to the soil.
Weed, Disease, and Pest Control
The best prevention against weeds, diseases, and pests is a thick, healthy lawn. A stressed lawn invites weeds and pests, and it becomes susceptible to disease. It can be a struggle to eliminate established weeds and pests or to restore diseased grass to health. Proper application of the right type of pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicide at the right time will keep your lawn weed-free. Pest and disease control should always be done by a professional who is skilled at identifying what exactly is attacking the lawn, and who understands the measures necessary to restore a lawn to health.
Mowing
Mowing should continue until the first deep freeze that signals grass to go into hibernation. Throughout the season, it’s important to mow at the correct height to minimize soil dehydration. It’s also important to keep mower blades sharp to avoid tearing the grass, which invites disease.
Spot-treating
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a patch of lawn doesn’t thrive and must be spot-treated. This can involve tearing out the existing lawn, amending the soil, over-seeding, and regularly feeding, watering, and weed-pulling as the new shoots become established.
It’s a lot to think about!
Lawns can be high-maintenance, but by following a regular schedule of season-appropriate care, you can minimize the effort needed to maintain a gorgeous lawn all year.
A professional has the experience and knowledge you need to work with your lawn's unique requirements. We will keep your lawn in top shape with our comprehensive year-round lawn care services that free up your time so that you can enjoy digging your toes in the grass instead of wondering what your lawn needs next!
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