As summer approaches, it’s time to prepare your lawn for the warmer months ahead. A well-maintained lawn not only adds to the beauty of your home but also provides a fun and comfortable space for outdoor activities. At Carl’s Mower & Saw, we’re here to help you achieve a lush, green lawn all summer long. Follow these essential tips and tricks to keep your lawn in top shape!
Prep Now for Summer Heat
The first step to a healthy summer lawn is proper preparation. As temperatures rise, your lawn will need extra care to withstand the heat. Start by:
1. Clearing Debris: Remove leaves, twigs, and any other debris that may have accumulated over the winter and spring. This ensures your lawn can breathe and absorb water and nutrients more effectively.
2. Inspecting for Pests: Check for any signs of pests or diseases, since early detection can save your lawn from damage. Irregular brown patches can indicate the presence of grubs feeding on grass roots, while chewed grass blades may suggest caterpillars, leading to thinning areas. If your grass is wilting despite there being enough moisture, it may point to an underground pest problem like root-feeding insects. Increased bird activity or tunneling around your yard can also indicate an insect issue, as they are signs that birds, moles, or other burrowing animals are following a food source, such as grubs.
3. Testing Soil: A soil test will help you understand its pH level and nutrient content. Based on the results, you can adjust your fertilization plan to meet your lawn’s specific needs.
Sharpen Blades
Sharp mower blades are crucial for a clean cut and a healthy lawn. Dull blades tear the grass, leading to jagged edges that can make your lawn susceptible to disease and drought. Here’s how to keep your blades sharp:
1. Regular Sharpening: Sharpen your mower blades every 20-25 hours of use. If you mow frequently, this might mean sharpening the blades several times during the summer.
2. Check Blade Balance: An unbalanced blade can cause uneven cuts and damage your mower. After sharpening, ensure the blade is balanced by hanging it on a nail or using a blade balancer.
3. Replace When Necessary: If sharpening doesn’t seem to improve the cutting quality, it might be time to replace the blades. Regular inspection will help you determine when a new blade is needed – stop by Carl’s Mower and Saw and we can help you out!
Feed Your Lawn
Feeding your lawn is essential to keep it green and healthy. A well-fertilized lawn can better withstand the stresses of summer heat and foot traffic. Follow these feeding tips:
1. Use Slow-Release Fertilizer: Slow-release fertilizers provide a steady supply of nutrients over time, promoting consistent growth without the risk of burning your lawn.
2. Apply Correctly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and timing. Over-fertilizing can damage your lawn, while under-fertilizing might not give you the desired results.
3. Water After Fertilizing: Water your lawn thoroughly after applying fertilizer to help the nutrients reach the roots and avoid burning the grass.
Aerate
Aeration is the process of creating small holes in your lawn to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. This helps alleviate soil compaction and promotes stronger, healthier root growth. Here’s how to aerate your lawn:
1. Choose the Right Time: Aerate your lawn in late spring or early summer when the grass is actively growing. This allows the grass to recover quickly.
2. Use the Right Equipment: Rent a power aerator from Carl’s Mower & Saw. Our team will walk you through the process before you head out.
3. Follow Up with Overseeding: After aerating, spread grass seed over the lawn to fill in any bare spots and improve overall density. This will help create a thicker, healthier lawn.
Reviving Dry or Patchy Areas
Dry and patchy areas can be an eyesore on an otherwise healthy lawn. Reviving these areas requires some extra attention.
First, identify the cause, whether it’s pests, disease, or poor soil conditions, and treat it before repairing the lawn. Use a dethatcher to clear away thatch (dead grass and debris) to allow the seeds to reach the soil. Reseed the patches with high-quality grass seed that matches your existing lawn and keep the area moist until the new grass is established. Finally, apply a thin layer of mulch or straw over the reseeded areas to retain moisture and protect the seeds from birds and other critters.
Enjoy Your Lawn All Summer
By following these summer lawn care essentials, you can enjoy a beautiful, lush lawn all season long. For more tips and high-quality lawn care equipment, visit us at Carl’s Mower & Saw. We’re here to help you achieve the lawn of your dreams!
About
Established in 1990 by Carl and Beth Levien, Carl’s Mower & Saw remains a family-owned and locally operated business to this day. We’re committed to providing an exceptional customer experience to both contractors and homeowners. Whether you’re looking for sales or rentals, you’ll discover top-notch outdoor power equipment brands known for their durability and dependability, including brands like Exmark, Gravely, Honda, Husqvarna, STIHL, and BCS America. For inquiries, feel free to reach out by calling 360-384-0799 or emailing info@carlsmower.com.
