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Lawn Care

Feb 20
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Thinking of Over-Seeding Your Lawn This Spring?

By Lawn Care

First of all, know that over-seeding is always a good idea.  When combined with aeration the results are typically outstanding.

However, there are a few things you should know that will be critical to having success.

For this reading, I will assume you are a homeowner and live in Northwest Indiana where cool-season grasses prevail. The most common cool season turf grasses in Indiana are Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass.

When over-seeding, you will ideally want a blend of 60% Kentucky Blue and 40% Perennial Rye. A 50% 50% Blend is also acceptable.

Here’s the most important consideration and detail.  Cool-Season grasses actively grow in the late spring and early fall.  For over-seeding In the Spring, temperatures should be in the 68-77 degree range for optimal results and germination. Perennial Rye will typically germinate in a few weeks and Kentucky Blue usually takes 3 to 4 weeks.  

Timing is everything for great results.  Plan ahead.  Watch the temperatures. Hire a professional.

Feb 20
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Four Benefits of a Great Lawn

By Lawn Care

We all know that there are many benefits to have a great lawn. Let’s explore four of the biggest reasons why to care for your lawn.

Aesthetic! They say that first impressions are lasting impressions. I agree! And nothing speaks more loudly than a beautiful lawn. Thick, green, and weed free. It’s the ultimate in home-owner pride. Curb appeal is everything!

Economic! Most all homeowners want to see the value of their homes increase. One way to hedge your bet is having a beautiful, well cared for lawn. The obvious economic benefit is significantly increased values. It has always been and continues to be a great return on investment.

Environmental! Yes, the environmental benefits are amazing. A great lawn does the following:

  1. Enhances air quality
  2. Produces oxygen
  3. Reduces runoff and soil erosion
  4. Recharges groundwater
  5. Filters contaminants
  6. Reduces atmospheric carbon dioxide
  7. Stores soil nitrogen and carbon
  8. Dissipates heat

Most people I know want to make a contribution to the environment. Having a great lawn is one way to do it!

Social Benefits! Ever hear the old saying “barefoot in the grass”? That’s the idea here. Playing in the yard is what it’s all about. Especially when your grass bounces back and recovers beautifully. The grass is there not only to look at but to enjoy the many social benefits associated with a great lawn. Sports, recreation, and relaxation!

So there you have it. Four great reasons to care for your lawn!

Feb 20
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Four Great Tips When Mowing Your Lawn

By Lawn Care

Lawn Mowing Tips

The primary purpose of mowing turfgrass is to improve its appearance, but there are several other benefits as well.  Choosing the proper mowing technique, equipment, frequency, and height will improve and increase the health of your grass while decreasing weeds.

  1. Mow as often as needed to never remove more than 1/3rd of the leaf blade in a single mowing. Cutting more than 1/3 of the leaf blade in a single mowing is detrimental to plant health.  Change patterns every other mowing so not to create ruts or permanent markings.
  2. Mowing grass at higher mowing heights ( 2 ½ “- 3” ) helps increase overall plant health and reduces weed competition.  Higher mowing heights allow the plant to produce more energy and develop a deeper rooting system as well.  Mowing too low will cause a rapid decline in turf health, decreased turf density, and increased weed encroachment.
  3. Sharpen your mower blades frequently.  Sharply cut blades of grass increase the overall health of the lawn by improving recovery, decreasing water loss and increasing photosynthesis. Mowing grass with dull blades creates poor aesthetics, heals more slowly and has greater water loss.
  4. Returning clippings during mowing benefit the turf because grass clippings contain valuable nutrients that can be recycled into the soil.  Collecting clippings will create a need for adding more Nitrogen to your lawn throughout the year.  

In Summary

Sharpen your blades frequently. Cut at a higher height.  Never cut more than 1/3 of the blade of grass in any mowing session.  Return clippings to the soil.

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