Are you new to maintaining your lawn and looking for ways to do it correctly and effectively? If so, you need to keep plenty of important lawn care elements in mind. After all, a messed up lawn is a waste of time and money, as you end up having to replace it all.
In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know when you’re first starting out with lawn care. That way, you gain a better and more functional lawn that you can be proud of.
With this in mind, let’s begin!
Preparing Your Lawn: An Overview
A good place to start is by assessing the area of grass you’re trying to work with. Determine what you’ll be working with. Then, begin by clearing out any debris, rocks, weeds, and pests.
Also, consider mowing your lawn once or twice a week. At an appropriate height, it will help keep it looking pristine. Don’t forget to water when necessary.
Finally, use weed control and pest control as directed. This will ensure your lawn stays healthy and looks its best.
Creating a Watering Plan
Identify the kind of grass in your lawn and research how much water its type requires. Separate your lawn into sections based on its sunlight and shade exposure. Different parts of the lawn will have different water requirements.
Determine how much water your entire lawn requires. Then, create a yard work schedule. Split that up into regular, weekly, or bi-weekly watering sessions whenever possible.
Install a sprinkler system to help you keep on track with your lawn maintenance. Focus on targeting the base of the grass, and make sure you avoid getting the grass’s blades too wet. Lastly, water grass in the morning or early evening to minimize evaporation.
Identifying & Controlling Weeds
Weeds can easily overrun a lawn and make it difficult to maintain. The best place to start is to properly identify what weeds are in the lawn.
Common forms of weeds include dandelions, crabgrass, and clover. These weeds can be recognized by their leaves, which can be toothed, lobed, and waxy. They can be controlled through hand-pulling, applying herbicides, and properly mowing the lawn.
Regular mowing can help reduce the spread of weeds and keep the lawn healthy.
Fertilizing Your Lawn
Fertilizing your lawn provides the necessary nutrients for grass growth. It can even lead to a thicker and lusher lawn. So, be sure to choose the right fertilizer for the grass type and climate.
Apply fertilizers once a year in the early spring and late fall with a slow-release formula. It is important to make sure to apply evenly across the lawn and avoid applying to any bare spots. Check out more fall landscaping tips here.
Too much fertilizer can actually harm the lawn. Read and adhere to the directions on the packaging. Be sure to water the lawn after applying the fertilizer. Also, keep the grass mowed correctly and regularly rake the grass to reduce thatch buildup.
Getting Started With Lawn Care
Thanks for reading this beginner’s guide to lawn care. Now that you know the basics, you’re well on your way to having the perfect lawn.
Why not extend your knowledge further by researching some more tips and tricks?
Want even more help? Visit our website today to learn more.