You’re ready to show off your lawn at Magnolia Station at Cresleigh Ranch…but how to make sure it’s looking its best? In order to maintain a lush, green lawn, it’s essential that you follow several steps. Today, we’ll be breaking down basic lawn care, so you can be assured of a gorgeous outdoor space all year long. 

1. Mowing Matters

It’s not just about aesthetics – proper mowing sets up your grass to be its healthy best. Set your mower at the right height for your grass type, as cutting too low can stress the grass and invite weeds. In general, never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at once. Regular mowing, typically once a week during the growing season, will keep your lawn looking neat and healthy.

2. Water Wisely

More isn’t always better! Watering is crucial for a healthy lawn, but it’s essential to do it right. Deep and infrequent watering is preferable to shallow and frequent watering. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal issues. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. A rain gauge can help you monitor your lawn’s water needs.

3. Fertilize Regularly

This is a step that often gets missed, but it’s the equivalent of giving your lawn vitamins! Use a balanced fertilizer with the right N-P-K (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) ratio for your grass type. Typically, lawns benefit from fertilization in early spring and late fall. Follow the recommended application rates to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm your lawn.

4. Control Weeds

This goes without saying…but in case you needed a reminder, weeds are the enemy of a beautiful lawn. Regularly inspect your lawn and remove weeds by hand or use herbicides as necessary. Applying pre-emergent herbicides in the spring can prevent many weed problems before they start.

5. Aerate Your Lawn

This step often gets missed, and it shouldn’t. Aeration involves perforating the soil with holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the root zone. Aerating your lawn annually, especially in compacted or heavy clay soils, can significantly improve grass growth and overall lawn health. Rent an aerator and split the cost with your neighbors to improve laws all down the street.

8. Mind the Season

There’s always something to do to care for your lawn, no matter the season. However, different seasons require different approaches to lawn care. In the spring, focus on fertilization and weed control. Summer is all about watering and mowing. Fall is the time for overseeding and aeration, while winter calls for protecting your lawn from harsh conditions.

Enjoy Your Space!

No matter the size of your lawn, you can enjoy a healthy, thriving green space if you take the time to properly care for your grass. Do your research and put in the work, and you’ll have a beautiful extension of your home to enjoy.