What are the DIY ways of lawn care?

Spring can be a hectic time for lawn care. Weather can change rapidly, plants are still recovering from the winter cold, so they may be delicate and tender. Also, the soil is beginning to thaw after the winter freeze. It is important to take the necessary steps early in the season to ensure that your lawn stays green and lush throughout the year. Our step-by-step guide will help you get your lawn ready for spring.

DIY Lawn Care Guide

1. Get Rid Of Weeds

Some weeds will eventually grow on your lawn. These can be pulled manually or using a handheld weeder, hoe or hoe. You must remove them completely, roots and all. You can either use an herbicide to kill the weeds or spread a weed-feeding product on your lawn. You can spray dandelions with diluted vinegar if they are a problem. You can treat crabgrass by making your mower blades longer and watering less often.

2. Dethatch

Thatch is a matted accumulation of organic debris between grass blades. The itch can lead to dead patches and open areas for weeds. Check your lawn for any signs of thatch. You can remove thatch with a dethatcher or a thatching rake. The process of dethatching can be completed in 3-4 weeks.

3. Aerate

To determine if your lawn needs aeration, inspect it. Examine the roots of your lawn by digging a 1-foot section. Your lawn should be aerated if the roots are not more than 2 inches deep. Before you aerate, water your lawn for at least 1 to 2 days. Once, use a core aerator to aerate the lawn. Apply compost or sand to the entire lawn after the aeration has been completed.

4. Reseed and overseed

Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map for information on which seed is best for your lawn before you apply any seed. In spring and autumn, overseed with cool-season grasses like rye, fescue, or Kentucky bluegrass. Later in the season, overseed your lawn with warm-season grass such as Bermuda or Zoysia. A broadcast sawder is best to ensure an even application. Water the seed to aid it in its establishment. For adding fertilizer to your lawn, check out our Organic Lawn Fertilizer Guide.

5. Mow

 

A healthy lawn will be denser which makes it more resilient to weeds. Reduce the height of the grass by mowing only 1/3" off its top. The mower deck height should be between 2 1/2'' and 3'' high. A taller grass keeps weed seeds from germinating and helps to shade them. You can alternate your mowing style by mowing at a 45-90-degree angle after your last mow. This prevents soil compaction and encourages grass growth. You should also keep your mower blades clean.