How To

As a professional lawn maintenance technician in North Carolina, I’ve seen my fair share of lawns that could use a little extra love and attention. Fortunately, there are plenty of steps you can take to improve the health and appearance of your lawn. Here are some tips to help you achieve a greener, healthier yard this year.

• Test your soil: The first step in achieving a healthy lawn is understanding your soil. A soil test can help you determine the pH level of your soil, as well as any nutrient deficiencies that may be present. This information can guide you in choosing the right fertilizers and soil amendments for your lawn.
• Aerate your lawn: Over time, the soil in your lawn can become compacted, making it difficult for air, water, and nutrients to penetrate. Aeration involves poking small holes in your lawn to allow these essential elements to reach the roots of your grass. Aerate your lawn once or twice a year to promote healthy root growth and improve overall lawn health.
• Fertilize properly: Fertilizing your lawn can provide essential nutrients that promote healthy growth. However, it’s important to choose the right fertilizer for your lawn and apply it correctly. Choose a fertilizer that matches your soil test results, and apply it at the right time and in the right amount.
• Water wisely: Proper watering is crucial to the health of your lawn. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth, and avoid watering during the heat of the day, as this can lead to evaporation and waste. Consider installing a rain gauge or using a smart irrigation system to ensure you’re not over- or under-watering your lawn.
• Mow correctly: Mowing your lawn regularly can promote healthy growth, but it’s important to do it correctly. Be sure to set your mower blades to the proper height for your grass type, and avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. This will help promote healthy growth and discourage weeds.
• Control weeds: Weeds can choke out your grass and make your lawn look unsightly. Regularly pull weeds by hand, or use an herbicide if necessary. Be sure to follow the instructions on the herbicide label, and avoid using it on windy days.

By following these tips, you can help your lawn become greener and healthier this year. If you’re unsure about any of these steps, or you’re struggling to achieve the results you want, consider consulting with a professional lawn care service. With a little extra attention and care, your lawn can be the envy of the neighborhood!

Riddle Tractor is a licensed Dealer for Kubota, Scag, Walker, Altoz, Stihl, Echo and more. They are located in Winston Salem.