7 Common Lawn Care Mistakes to Avoid
Lawn care is an important part of maintaining the beauty and integrity of your yard. It requires plenty of attention and knowledge of the right processes in order to achieve the best results. However, even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when it comes to taking care of your lawn. Unless you have a lawn care degree or are a certified professional, chances are you’ll make a few blunders along the way. To help you keep your lawn healthy and lush, the lawn care experts at Foundations Property Management would like to share some of the most common mistakes to avoid.
Mistake #1: Overwatering
While some lawns need extra water every now and then, overdoing it can be a death sentence. Too much water can suffocate the grass and stunt growth. Furthermore, overwatering can lead to disease and an increased need for fertilizer.
You should only water your lawn when it truly needs it. This means checking the soil often to see if it feels dry before deciding to water it. Watering your lawn too often can lead to pest infestations, root diseases, and can even cause lawns to become too dependent on water. The goal is to keep the lawn’s root system deep and strong by only watering when it’s necessary.
Mistake #2: Not Mowing Properly
One of the most common lawn care mistakes is mowing incorrectly. Mowing your grass too short or too long can have damaging effects. If you mow too short, the sun’s rays can scorch the soil, which can lead to dryness and make it also susceptible to disease. On the other hand, if you mow too high, your grass will have a hard time getting the air, sunlight, and nutrients it needs to survive. The ideal mowing height is between 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
Also, keep in mind your mowing frequency. You should only cut off a third of the grass blade each time you mow or else it will struggle to survive. Therefore, instead of only mowing once a week and cutting too much, you should aim to mow your lawn between two to three times a week.
Mistake #3: Not Dethatching
Dethatching is an important part of lawn care and should not be overlooked. Your lawn can only absorb the fertilizer and nutrients it receives through the soil. If your grass is covered in dead grass and debris, then the necessary nutrients won’t reach the soil. Dethatching allows air and water to pass through to the soil and roots. It also removes thatch build-up, which can prevent disease.
Mistake #4: Not Utilizing Grass Clippings
Many people just get rid of their grass clippings instead of putting them to good use. If left on the lawn, grass clippings can decompose and act as a natural fertilizer. They can also help to preserve water and nutrients in the soil. If you don’t want to leave them on your lawn, you can always add them to your compost bin or use them for mulch.
Mistake #5: Neglecting Weeds
Weeds are an eyesore and, if left untreated, can choke out your grass and other plants on your property. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to regularly pull out any weeds that crop up on your lawn. You can also apply lawn care products that specifically target weeds.
Mistake #6: Not Aerating
Not aerating your lawn is a big mistake. Aeration allows air and water to get to your soil and grass roots. It also helps to break up the soil that is denser or more compacted. Furthermore, it can help reduce soil compaction and soil diseases. Aerating your lawn at least two times a year can help keep your grass vibrant and strong.
Caring for your lawn can be time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. Knowing which mistakes to avoid can save you a lot of frustration and time. Remember, it takes dedication and careful consideration to have a healthy, lush lawn. From proper fertilization to mowing correctly, these mistakes can be easily avoided with the right amount of knowledge and care.
Mistake #7: Poor Fertilization
Fertilization is one of the most important aspects of lawn care. Applying the right amount of fertilizer at the correct times can be tricky, as over-fertilizing can actually damage your grass. Fertilizer should be applied multiple times a year. However, you should be mindful of your grass type, soil, and climate so that you can determine the ideal fertilizer for your lawn.
Save Time and Avoid Mistakes by Hiring a Professional Lawn Care Company
Many people have a love-hate relationship with their lawns. They love the manicured look of a freshly mowed lawn but also don’t want to spend their entire weekend tending to it. Unfortunately, taking shortcuts or not investing the time to learn how to properly care for your lawn can do more harm than good.
If you want your lawn to look lush and green this summer, consider hiring a professional lawn care company. At Foundations Property Management we offer customized lawn care services that include lawn mowing, fertilization, weed control, and more to homes and businesses in Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, and the surrounding areas. Call, text, or visit our website to request a free quote!