The Best Lawn Care Tips

Fertilizer

• For lush, dark green lawns, fertilizing the soil is a must. Fertilizer returns nutrients to the soil that nature depletes. These nutrients include nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, which are found in equal amounts in packaged fertilizers such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 formulas. Fertilize in early and late spring, toward the end of summer, and in the fall.

Grass Seed

• You may notice bare spots in your lawn, or the lawn appears not as lush and vibrant. Seeding the lawn in the spring starts new growth and helps to fill bare patches. Look for grass seeds that fit with your lawn type. Certain grasses grow best in sun, while others flourish in shaded areas. Seed the lawn with a grass spreader, covering the ground evenly. Place a shallow layer of straw over bare areas to keep moisture inside the soil, giving seedlings a chance to grow.

Mowing the Grass

• Mow the lawn without scalping it. Mowing too close to the ground allows moisture to escape from the soil and may cause grass to die. Leave the grass blades at a height of 3 inches, and do not cut new grass until it reaches at least 4 inches tall. This gives it a chance to develop healthy roots. Avoid mowing the grass during drought.

Watering the Lawn

• A green lawn requires water to keep it from dying and turning a light brown color. To reach the roots, the water should absorb 6 to 8 inches into the soil. This normally requires 1/2-inch of rain or watering. Water the grass when the ground becomes hard and dry. Use a garden hose or sprinkler system, and water in the morning. Soak the soil with the water, but do not allow it to become soggy.