Get your green on - spring lawn care unpacked

By Scout Nelson

As spring rolls in, it's time to kick-start lawn maintenance. According to Cynthia Domenghini, a horticulture expert at Kansas State University, proper lawn care is crucial for reducing weeds and environmental impact while cutting costs.

Mowing:

Domenghini advises setting the mower to the higher end of the recommended range for your grass type to boost drought resistance and encourage deeper root development.

She stresses the importance of not removing more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to avoid stress and potential damage. “Only one-third of the grass leaf should be cut at a time,” she emphasizes.

For lawns that have overgrown, the reduction should be gradual, spaced out over several days to prevent shock. Mowing patterns should also be varied to prevent soil compaction and ensure grass blades stand upright.

Domenghini warns against damaging trees with the mower, suggesting soil cultivation around tree bases to keep the area clear of grass and weeds.

Watering:

Watering should be done early in the morning to minimize disease risk, and only when necessary, indicated by signs like a bluish-green tint or footprints that don't bounce back.

“Soak the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and wait for signs that more water is needed,” advises Domenghini.

Fertilizing:

Fertilizing should be tailored to the type of grass and weather conditions. For fescue and bluegrass, the best times are September and November, with an optional application in May.

Bermudagrass and zoysiagrass should be fertilized from May through August, while buffalograss benefits most from a June application.

Domenghini cautions against over-fertilizing, which can lead to increased water and mowing needs and potential environmental hazards.

These guidelines from a seasoned expert aim to help homeowners maintain lush, healthy lawns through responsible practices that contribute positively to the environment.

Photo Credit -kansas-state-university