Does your lawn need some expert care? A healthy and thriving lawn does wonders for the appearance of your home, but because lawn care involves more than simple mowing, some lawns end up neglected, which can result in the additional need to look into damage control. If you’ve had it with the lawn struggles, here is how to tell if you need a lawn care service in Lake Forest, IL.
Lawn Care Service Experts Handle the Scheduling
Keeping your lawn healthy requires regular and knowledgeable care. If you have seen other neighbors crop their lawns to putting-green height and then wonder why their lawn becomes sunburned and dry, it’s likely there was confusion about the correct mowing height. There needs to be enough shade to protect the roots and prevent soil from drying out, but leaving the grass to grow too tall can create too much shade, resulting in soggy soil. Mowing with sharp blades is essential to avoid tearing the grass (which stresses the grass and invites disease), but not all homeowners have the time or knowledge to properly sharpen their own mower blades.
Edging is something many homeowners avoid doing regularly because it’s labor-intensive. But, it’s essential for a crisp finished look—which an expert lawn care service can provide at just the right times during the warm seasons.
De-thatching and aeration are necessary to revive stressed lawns (it’s especially important if you have kids, pets, or if your lawn is in a sun-baked location). Watering more won’t do much if the soil is compacted or a heavy layer of thatch prevents water from reaching the roots, as water will run off or evaporate and the lawn will continue to struggle.
The Pros Know a Lawn’s Watering and Nutrient Needs
Your soil needs to be tested at least once a year to determine whether it will support healthy turf. If tests show that the soil needs amending, a decision will need to be made about how to treat for it, to bring the soil to optimal pH and nutrient levels.
Proper fertilization follows a set schedule using different types of fertilizer throughout the year. In spring, it’s typical to use fertilizer that encourages growth and supports a robust root system that will make the grass less susceptible to drought, pests, and disease. In the fall, the grass doesn’t need to grow, but the roots need to be able to store nutrients to overwinter successfully. Fertilization is not one-size-fits-all. Also, improper application of fertilizer can undo all the hard work by causing fertilizer burn.
Weed control also happens on a schedule and uses different products. Pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides have different functions, and they are not interchangeable.
Deep watering tends to be up to the homeowner, but our experts are happy to educate you on the best practices of how and when to deep-water the lawn.
As you can see, lawn care is pretty involved, but it pays off in a lush, vibrant lawn. Investing in lawn care services frees up your time and protects your investment. Give us a call today, and let’s discuss how our expert crews can help keep your lawn healthy and beautiful!