Lawn Care Information

Caring for your lawn not only helps it look great, but it also helps the environment by resisting weeds and diseases that can occur in poorly cared for lawns.

Soil

Add organic matter to your soil, such as manure, grass clippings or compost, to add vital nutrients to your lawn.

Fertilization

Lawns should be fertilized every year using a slow-release fertilizer. Lawns need the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that fertilizers contain.

Aeration

Lawns should be aerated several times per year, especially if the soil has heavy clay content. Pulling out plugs of soil to create air pockets will allow water to penetrate the soil.

Mowing

Set your lawn mower to cut the grass high, from 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches, and use sharp blades. Leave clippings on your lawn to allow essential nutrients to recycle back into the soil.

Water

Give your lawn a slow, deep watering of at least 1 inch---but only when it really needs it---to allow the roots to grow deeper into the soil's surface.

Thatching

Break up the buildup of dead plant material by raking or using a thatcher to allow water and nutrients into the soil.

References

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency