7 Best Lawn-Care Tips That GOLF Staffers Tried and Loved in 2024
After a long winter, it’s finally time to get your lawn back in shape. But with so many different products and techniques out there, it can be tough to know where to start.
That’s why we asked the experts at GOLF for their top tips for getting your lawn in tip-top shape this year. Here are their seven favorites:
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- Mow High: Contrary to popular belief, mowing your lawn short does not make it healthier. In fact, it can stress the grass and make it more susceptible to drought, disease, and weeds. Raise the mower height to 2.5-3 inches to promote deeper roots, reduce water loss, and create a healthier overall lawn.
- Water Deeply and Infrequently: Overwatering your lawn is a common mistake that can lead to shallow roots, disease, and waterlogging. Instead, aim to water deeply and infrequently, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil and encourage strong root growth.
- Fertilize Regularly: The right fertilizer application schedule is crucial for a healthy lawn. Fertilize in early spring, midsummer, and early fall, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Control Weeds: Weeds not only compete with grass for nutrients and water, but they can also harbor diseases and pests. Implement a comprehensive weed control plan that combines pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides and proper cultural practices like mowing and fertilizing.
Mowing Magic: Unveiling the Secrets of Optimal Grass Height
Achieving a lush, healthy lawn requires more than just watering and feeding; the height at which you mow your grass plays a crucial role. By following these expert mowing tips from GOLF staffers, you can unlock the secrets to an enviable green carpet.
- Understand the Sweet Spot:
– The optimal grass height varies depending on the type of grass you have. Generally, warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia should be mowed between 1-1.5 inches, while cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescue prefer a slightly higher 2-2.5 inches.
- Mow Frequently, Remove Sparingly:
– To prevent stress, mow regularly at the recommended height. Remove only the top third of the grass blade to encourage dense, healthy growth. Avoid scalping the lawn, as it can damage the grass and leave it vulnerable to disease.
- Sharp Blades for Clean Cuts:
– Dull mower blades tear and weaken the grass blades. Invest in a sharp blade for a clean cut that promotes healthier growth and reduces the risk of disease.
- Seasonal Adjustments:
– Adapt your mowing height according to the season. During peak growing season, mow more frequently and at a slightly lower height. In the fall, raise the mowing height to encourage deeper root growth that will help the lawn survive the winter.
Irrigation Insights: Tailoring Your Watering Regimen for a Flourishing Lawn
Watering is a crucial aspect of lawn care, and finding the right balance is key to a healthy, lush lawn. Here are some essential insights on irrigation:
Mind the Temperature:
Consider the temperature when watering. Warm weather requires more frequent watering as evaporation occurs faster. During cooler temperatures, water less often, as the soil retains moisture for longer.
Water Deeply:
Water deeply to encourage roots to grow deeper into the soil. This will make the lawn more resilient to drought and other stresses. Avoid shallow watering, which only moistens the surface and encourages shallow roots.
Check Soil Moisture:
Before watering, check the soil moisture level using a moisture meter or by inserting a screwdriver into the ground. If the screwdriver can penetrate the soil easily, then the soil has sufficient water. If it meets resistance, it’s time to water.
Water at the Right Time:
The best time to water your lawn is early morning, when temperatures are cooler and evaporation is less. Watering at night can promote fungal diseases due to prolonged moisture on the leaves. Avoid watering during windy days, as water may evaporate quickly.
Fertilization Fundamentals: Feeding Your Lawn for Optimal Health
The cold, harsh winter months may be lingering in some regions, but spring is just around the corner for much of the nation. It won’t be long until homeowners across the country will be dusting off their mowers, sharpening their shears, and otherwise preparing their yards for another season of outdoor enjoyment. Whether your lawn is large and sprawling or small and compact, taking the time for proper lawn care will pay dividends all season long.
One of the most important aspects of lawn care is fertilization. Fertilizing your lawn regularly will help it to grow thick, healthy, and green. It will also help to prevent weeds and pests from taking hold.
Choose the Right Fertilizer
The first step in fertilizing your lawn is to choose the right fertilizer. There are many different types of fertilizers available, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for your lawn’s needs. Consider the following factors when choosing a fertilizer:
The type of grass you have
The climate you live in
The size of your lawn
Organic or inorganic options
Apply Fertilizer Correctly
Once you’ve chosen the right fertilizer, it’s important to apply it correctly to ensure that your lawn receives the nutrients it needs to thrive.
How often to fertilize? Fertilize your lawn every few months to maintain optimum health.
How much fertilizer to apply? Follow the directions on the fertilizer package.
* When to fertilize? Fertilize your lawn in the spring, summer, and fall to achieve better results.
Use a Spreader
Applying fertilizer by hand can be time-consuming and uneven, so it’s best to use a spreader to ensure even coverage. A rotary spreader is designed to distribute fertilizer more evenly than a handheld spreader.
Water Your Lawn
After you’ve fertilized your lawn, it’s important to water it thoroughly. The water will help the fertilizer to penetrate the soil and reach the roots of the grass.
And there you have it, folks! The seven lawn care tips that worked wonders for GOLF staffers in 2024. It’s a wrap for this article, and you know what that means — it’s time for you to put these tips into action and get the lawn of your dreams. Remember, these are the techniques that our experts swear by, so you can trust that they’ll make a big difference.
Happy mowing, everyone!
