Summer is here, and while you are out basking in sunny weather, don’t forget your lawn needs attention too. After the past cold months, its time your lawn enjoys the warmth – in a healthy way. Just the use of right tools and information can add that healthy green to your outdoor area.
There are, however, a few other factors that need to be kept in mind as well – namely the use of water, need for oxygen, grass type, and the right kind of soil and fertilizer. “Water and air are important in helping build a healthy lawn,” points out Scott Duff, lawn care expert and owner of Aura Landscaping. “This is why I recommend lawn aeration to ensure the roots get enough oxygen, and watering it deeply and infrequently to build deep, strong roots.” It also allows for improved drainage so you don’t end up with a small lake in your backyard.
The grass type depends on the area and the amount of sun the lawn gets. “In shaded areas, I would recommend rye grass over blue grass,” says Duff, adding that it is important to get the soil tested to determine PH levels. “This can help you know how much or how little fertilizer you need.”
Coming back to the right tools, the healthy growth of your lawn depends on the type of mower you use. “For hilly uneven terrain, homeowners need a lawn mower that has an all-wheel drive,” says Duff recommending the Husqvarna HU800AWD mower, as it has the ability to get through the most uneven terrain, and features premium wheels that will not tear up grass.
Duff shares some tips to get your lawn and garden ready for the warm months ahead:
Equipment check
Always check your equipment before you begin. If you didn’t drain the fuel from your machines prior to storage, be sure to replace it now and clean your equipment to prevent any chain, belt or blade issues. Also check the filters and spark plug to ensure the machine is running at peak performance.
Winter clean up
We all need a fresh start sometimes, even our lawns. Start the season right by clearing away all winter debris like salt, leaves, sticks and pet waste. Duff uses the Husqvarna 125B blower for a speedy cleanup, as it features a well-balanced design making it easy for homeowners to operate. He then gives the lawn a deep raking to remove thatch and dying grass blades
to help promote growth. It also breaks up those heavy-matted patches that lead to mould.
Growing the right grass
Choosing the right type of grass for your environment is key. For example, homeowners with kids may look to use ryegrass – a good selection for home lawns, sports fields and high traffic areas, such as playgrounds. On the other hand, those looking for a more lush lawn should consider bluegrass. It has a nice colour and texture, can be easily established from seed,
forming one of the highest quality lawns, and is good for homes, parks and golf courses.
Making the cut
Mowing in the same direction every time can damage the grass blade which leads to ruts and bare patches. Be sure to change directions and even try cutting diagonally to achieve a cleaner cut.
Always keep blades sharp
Dull blades tear instead of cut, which causes more damage to the lawn; and as a result, requires more of the plants energy to fix the damage.
Always cut grass when dry
When the grass is dry, the blades will stand up straight and make it easier to cut. When it’s wet, the blades will bend, resulting in an uneven lawn.
Avoid cutting on a hot day
Cutting grass on a hot day leaves the roots susceptible to the sun and can put them under heat stress and can damage the roots. The best way to prevent heat stress is to only cut 1/3 of the top of the grass. This will ensure you have a nice, clean-looking lawn and that the roots are well-protected.
Scott advices mowing the lawn once a week depending on the climate and growth. “In shaded areas, I cut once every two weeks, because grass on average tends to grow slower. In sunny areas when there is a lot of growth, I cut once a week, but I stick to the 1/3 rule.”
Factors that can lead to a bad lawn:
Over or under watering:
You lawn needs about one inch of water a week. Some people water frequently but not deeply, causing the grass to grow shallow weak roots. Others don’t water enough and the grass struggles.
Over or under fertilizing:
Again, too much or too little is a bad thing. Get your soil levels checked to determine the best course of action.
Cutting the grass too short:
Only cut 1/3 of the top of the grass so that the roots are well-protected.
