How to have the Best Lawn on the Block

Take a walk around your neighborhood and you’re bound to size up the homes you see based on their curb appeal. A big part of curb appeal in North America is how lush and green ones lawn is. We all know how difficult it can be to get a lawn to thrive, however as it takes a lot of work, time and care to achieve the desired look. Once you achieve the enviable results of the lawn you dream of the work doesn’t stop there, as then you will need to work on maintaining the lawn. It’s a labor of love.

1. Good quality seed

Over-seeding is important every year to crowd out any weeds and to thicken thin spots in the lawn. Avoid just buying any grass seed for over-seeding and buy seed specific to your situation such as: sun exposure.

2. Aeration

Prior to seeding the lawn it is important to aerate the lawn. Each year the soil gets compacted and that can prevent the roots of your grass from getting the oxygen it needs. Once the lawn is aerated it is also an optimal time to seed.

3. Rake the lawn

In the spring it is important to get out and rake your lawn. You want to remove any dead grass or debris that may have accumulated over the winter to give the remaining grass the room to thrive.

4. Fertilize

Your lawn will need nutrition to look its best. It is optimal to fertilize four times a year to achieve your desired look. Make sure to pick a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.

5. Mulch

When you mow the lawn skip the clipping bag and leave the cut grass on your lawn, as the mulched grass is rich in nitrogen and mulching returns nitrogen to the root.

6. Mow Length

Pay particular attention to the adjusting the blades to mow the optimal length. You only want to mow the top third of the lawn. Anything lower and the lawn will dry out. Also, ensure that mower blades are kept sharp to avoid burning the lawn.  

7. Water weekly

Depending on where you live there may be bylaws on how often and when you can water your lawn, so adhere to your local bylaws first and foremost. Optimally, water the lawn at least once weekly. Ensure you are watering for at least 20 minutes to properly saturate the roots of the grass.

8. pH test of soil

Knowing what the pH level of your lawn is, is key to improving the health of the grass that it grows. If the soil is too acidic of alkaline it is affect the grass’s ability to drawn nutrients. To balance the pH either lime or sulfur may need to be added to the lawn.

9. Learn signs of lawn disease

Know what to look for when your lawn is in trouble such as: fungus, crabgrass, or grubs. It may be a good idea to call in a professional lawn service to treat lawn disease.

10. Time of Day

Consider when you water your lawn and mow it as it can affect the health of your lawn. Avoid watering or mowing during peak sun, it is best to mow and water in the evening as you will want the lawn to be dry when mowed.