Americans love a green and lush lawn. In fact, the lawn industry is worth nearly $4 billion. Homeowners spend thousands on fertilizers and other lawn products.
With big money invested in the lawn, you want it to be in the best condition possible. If your lawn is important to you, then read on to learn about the most common mistakes made in lawn care. Explore 7 common lawn care mistakes to avoid so you can flaunt the best green in the neighborhood.
1. Overwatering
Many homeowners make this mistake. These misinformed lawn maintainers believe that an extra dose of water is a cure-all.
If the soil is saturated, grassroots have a difficult time absorbing the water. It is possible to drown your grass. The best rule of thumb to follow is giving your grass one inch of water per week.
2. Failure to Water Enough
Grassroots cannot survive without water. If you don’t provide enough water, the roots lose access to water supply.
The water has to soak deep enough into the soil to reach the grassroots. Failing to do so will result in dead grass.
3. Watering At the Wrong Time of Day
It is best to water the grass in the morning. The reason is that the morning is the coolest time of the day.
Watering during the afternoon is inefficient. The water evaporates and the grass does not receive as much water as needed.
4. Fertilizing During Summer
The best time to feed your lawn is during the spring and fall. This is because temperatures are cooler.
Your lawn is more receptive to food and nutrients during this time. By fertilizing in the heat of summer, you run the risk of drying out the lawn.
5. Cutting Too Short
Many homeowners like a shortcut because it looks nice at the moment. It also requires a longer time period in between cuts.
However, there are serious downsides to cutting too short. First, short grass is more susceptible to be overtaken by crabgrass and weeds. Second, shorter grass shoots retain less water and are weaker.
6. Bagging the Lawn Clippings
The cheapest and easiest way to feed your grass is with clippings. Grass clippings are rich in nutrients like nitrogen.
Many homeowners make the mistake of bagging clippings. Take the collection bag off the mower and let the clippings work their magic.
7. Pets Gone Wild
Americans love their pets, but there are downsides when it comes to lawn care. First, pet urine is bad for grass health. The salts, ammonia, and nitrogen in pet urine tend to burn the grass.
Brown spots are not the only byproduct of free-roaming pets. Dogs also like to dig and can make holes in the yard.
Lawn Care Mistakes – Wrapping It Up
Having the nicest lawn on your street does not have to be hard or expensive. Avoiding common mistakes improves the odds of a green lawn.
Steps, like raising your lawn mower blade or watering in the morning, produce favorable results. If you want to learn more about lawn care, please contact us for assistance.
