Introduction:

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This blog post will cover the steps you can take to improve your homes yard this year.

Preparation (Early Spring)

The start of the new season is here, so its time to set your yard up for success.

Mow your lawn: Begin by mowing the grass slightly shorter than usual to expose the thatch layer. This will make it easier to dethatch effectively.

Remove any debris: Dethatching a lawn is a process of removing the layer of dead grass, known as thatch, that builds up between the soil surface and the green vegetation. Thatch is made up of dead grass blades, stems, roots, and other organic matter that accumulates over time. While a thin layer of thatch can be beneficial for the lawn, excessive thatch buildup can lead to various problems. Once you have loosened the thatch layer, use a leaf rake or a lawn sweeper to gather the debris and remove it from the lawn.

Test your soil (Video Here): Before you start planting new grass or treating your lawn, it’s a good idea to test your soil to see what nutrients it may be lacking. Your county or local University might have basic soil reports that you can access for free, but keep in mind that your yard will have a different soil composition. You can collect your soil samples (see video) and deliver them to your local testing facility (example for Missouri here).  Or you can purchase a soil testing kit at most garden centers or online that will allow you to mail your collected samples (typical cost is below $40). Once you know what your soil needs, you can add the appropriate fertilizers or soil amendments to help your grass grow.

Seeding (Spring):

Seeding a lawn is a process of establishing new grass or filling in bare patches in an existing lawn. Here are the steps to follow for seeding a lawn:

Choose the right grass seed: Select a grass seed variety that is suitable for your climate, sunlight conditions, and intended use of the lawn. Common types of grass include Bermuda grass, Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and zoysia grass. Consider factors such as shade tolerance, drought resistance, and traffic tolerance when choosing the seed.

Calculate seed quantity: Determine the amount of grass seed you’ll need based on the size of the area you’re seeding. Follow the recommended seeding rate provided by the seed manufacturer. It’s better to slightly overestimate the amount to ensure adequate coverage.

Rake and lightly roll: Use a rake to lightly incorporate the grass seed into the top layer of soil. This will help improve seed-to-soil contact and enhance germination. After raking, lightly roll the seeded area with a lawn roller to press the seeds into the soil.

Watering new seed:

Watering new grass seed is crucial for successful germination and establishment. Here are some guidelines on how to water new grass seed effectively:

Initial watering: After seeding, water the area immediately and thoroughly. The goal is to moisten the soil to a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm). Use a gentle spray or a sprinkler to avoid displacing the seeds. Ensure that the water penetrates the top layer of soil where the seeds are located.

Moisture maintenance: Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period, which typically takes around 7 to 21 days depending on the grass species. Watering frequency may vary based on weather conditions, but aim to keep the top 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of soil consistently moist. This may require watering multiple times a day, especially in warm or dry conditions.

Light and frequent watering: To prevent the soil from drying out, it’s best to water lightly and frequently. Watering for shorter durations, such as 5 to 10 minutes, two to three times a day, helps keep the soil moist without creating puddles or runoff. Adjust the watering schedule based on the weather, making sure to provide enough moisture to prevent the seeds from drying out.

Avoid overwatering: While it’s important to keep the soil moist, avoid overwatering, as it can lead to waterlogging and rotting of the seeds. Excessive water can also cause the seeds to wash away or move around, resulting in uneven germination. Monitor the moisture level by periodically checking the soil’s moisture content.

Adjust watering based on weather: Be mindful of weather conditions, including rainfall. If there’s sufficient rainfall, you may need to adjust your watering schedule accordingly. However, do not rely solely on rainwater, as it may not provide consistent moisture distribution. Supplement with manual watering as needed.

Gradual watering reduction: As the grass seedlings begin to establish and grow, gradually reduce the frequency of watering while increasing the amount of water applied during each session. This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil. Transition to a more typical watering schedule for an established lawn once the grass is well-established.

Remember that different grass species have varying water requirements, so it’s important to understand the specific needs of the grass seed you’ve chosen. It’s also crucial to monitor the moisture level of the soil regularly and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the optimal growth and establishment of the new grass.

Proper Mowing Practices:

To maintain the health and appearance of your lawn, it’s important to follow proper mowing practices. Here are some best practices for mowing your lawn:

Set the mower to the correct height: Adjust your mower’s cutting height according to the recommended height for your specific grass type. Cutting the grass too short can stress the plants and weaken their growth. On the other hand, letting the grass grow too long between mowings can lead to a thatch buildup and reduce sunlight penetration. Follow the appropriate mowing height guidelines for your grass species.

Follow the “one-third rule”: Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade height in a single mowing session. Cutting off too much of the grass at once can shock the plants and inhibit their ability to recover. By adhering to the one-third rule, you ensure that the grass remains at a healthy length and promotes vigorous growth.

Maintain sharp mower blades: Dull mower blades can tear the grass instead of cleanly cutting it. This can result in a ragged appearance and make the grass more susceptible to disease. Regularly inspect your mower blades and sharpen or replace them as needed. Sharp blades will provide a clean cut, promoting healthier grass and a more professional-looking lawn.

Mow when the grass is dry: It’s best to mow the lawn when the grass is dry. Mowing wet grass can result in clumping and uneven cutting, as well as potentially damaging the lawn. Wet grass can also lead to clogging of the mower deck. If you must mow wet grass, take extra care to clean the mower deck frequently and adjust the cutting height to avoid scalping.

Vary the mowing pattern: Change the mowing direction and pattern each time you mow. Mowing in the same direction every time can cause the grass to lean in one direction, resulting in an uneven appearance. By varying the mowing pattern, you encourage the grass to grow upright and promote a more even and professional-looking lawn.

Leave the grass clippings (mulching): In most cases, it is beneficial to leave the grass clippings on the lawn instead of bagging them. Grass clippings decompose quickly and provide valuable nutrients to the soil. Mulching the clippings also helps retain moisture and reduces the need for additional fertilization. However, if the grass is excessively long and the clippings form large clumps, it may be necessary to bag them to avoid smothering the grass.

Avoid mowing during extreme heat: Try to schedule your mowing sessions during the cooler parts of the day to prevent stress on both the grass and yourself. Mowing during extreme heat can increase moisture loss and stress the grass further. Additionally, it’s important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun while mowing in hot weather.

Remember, regular and consistent mowing practices contribute to a healthy and well-maintained lawn. Proper mowing, along with adequate watering, fertilization, and other lawn care practices, will help keep your grass lush, green, and vibrant.

Fertilizing Lawn:

The timing and frequency of lawn fertilization depend on several factors, including the type of grass, climate, soil conditions, and the specific fertilizer being used. Here are some general guidelines for fertilizing a lawn:

Early spring: As the grass starts to come out of dormancy, typically in early spring, it’s a good time to apply a slow-release or controlled-release fertilizer. This helps provide essential nutrients for the grass to kickstart its growth and green-up for the season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the recommended application rate.

Late spring/early summer: In late spring or early summer, you can apply a second round of fertilizer to provide a boost of nutrients for the growing grass. This helps sustain healthy growth and vigor during the active growing season. Again, use a slow-release or controlled-release fertilizer, following the recommended application rate.

Summer: During the hot summer months, it’s generally best to avoid fertilizing your lawn, especially if you have cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue. These grasses tend to go semi-dormant during hot periods and don’t require as much fertilizer. Fertilizing during extreme heat can stress the grass and increase the risk of burning. If you have warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass or Zoysia grass, you can consider applying a light application of a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer to maintain color and growth, but be cautious not to overdo it.

Early fall: Fall is a critical time for lawn fertilization. Applying a fall-specific fertilizer helps the grass recover from summer stress, promotes root growth, and prepares it for winter. Look for a fertilizer with a higher ratio of phosphorus and potassium to support root development and winter hardiness. Apply the fall fertilizer according to the instructions provided.

Optional late fall or winter: In some regions, a late fall or early winter fertilization can be beneficial, especially for cool-season grasses. This helps provide additional nutrients for winter survival and early spring green-up. Use a slow-release fertilizer designed for winter use, following the recommended application rate.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the specific fertilization needs of your lawn may vary based on factors such as grass type, soil conditions, and regional climate. Conducting a soil test can provide valuable information about the nutrient content and pH level of your soil, helping you determine any specific fertilizer requirements.

Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for application rates and any specific timing recommendations. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient runoff, environmental pollution, and damage to the grass, while under-fertilization may result in nutrient deficiencies and reduced lawn health.

Weed Prevention:

Removing weeds from your lawn is an ongoing process that can be done throughout the year. However, the timing and methods you use may vary depending on the specific weeds and your location. Here are some general guidelines for weed removal based on the seasons:

Spring: Spring is an ideal time to tackle weeds, as they start to emerge and actively grow during this season. Early spring is a good time to apply pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weed seeds from germinating. This helps to control annual weeds such as crabgrass and dandelions before they become established.

Summer: During the summer, some warm-season weeds may continue to grow and appear in your lawn. Regular mowing and proper watering can help prevent weed growth by promoting a dense and healthy turf. If specific weeds emerge, you can manually remove them or spot-treat them with post-emergent herbicides.

Fall: Fall is another crucial time to address weeds. Many perennial weeds, such as dandelions, are preparing for winter and sending nutrients down to their roots. This makes it an opportune time to apply herbicides that target the plant’s root system effectively. Additionally, fall is a good time for over seeding your lawn to fill in bare spots, which can help prevent weed growth in the future.

Winter: While weed growth slows down or goes dormant during winter in most regions, it’s still a good time to monitor your lawn for any persistent or winter weeds. If you notice any weeds, you can manually remove them or apply selective herbicides if necessary. Be cautious when using herbicides during winter, as the cold temperatures can impact their effectiveness.

Maintaining a dense, healthy lawn helps minimize weed growth by creating unfavorable conditions for weed establishment.

Aerating Lawn:

Aerating your yard, also known as core aeration, is the process of creating small holes in the soil to alleviate compaction and improve the movement of air, water, and nutrients to the grass roots. The timing for aerating your yard depends on the type of grass and local growing conditions. Here are some general guidelines:

Cool-season grasses: If you have cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, or perennial ryegrass, the best time to aerate is during the early fall or early spring. These grasses experience their most active growth during these seasons, and aerating during this time allows the grass to recover and fill in any holes created during the process.

Warm-season grasses: For warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, or St. Augustine grass, it’s best to aerate in late spring to early summer. This timing coincides with their peak growth period, allowing them to recover quickly.

It’s important to avoid aerating when the grass is in its dormant period or under extreme stress, such as during the hottest part of summer or the coldest part of winter. Aerating during these times can cause more harm than benefit to the grass.

Before aerating, it’s essential to prepare your lawn properly. Here are some steps to follow:

Moisture level: Ensure that the soil is slightly moist, but not overly saturated, before aerating. Water the lawn a day or two before aerating if necessary. This helps the aerator penetrate the soil effectively.

Mark sprinklers and obstacles: Identify and mark any sprinkler heads, utility lines, or other obstacles in your yard to avoid damaging them during the aeration process.

Aeration equipment: Choose the appropriate type of aerator for your lawn. There are manual aerators, which require physical effort, and mechanical aerators, such as plug or spike aerators, that can be rented or hired.

Aeration pattern: Plan your aeration pattern to ensure complete coverage of the lawn. Typically, you want to make multiple passes, overlapping each pass by a few inches, to ensure that the entire area is aerated.

Aftercare: After aerating, leave the soil plugs on the lawn. They will break down and add organic matter back to the soil. Consider topdressing the lawn with compost or a thin layer of sand to improve the soil structure and help fill in any holes created by aeration.