Transforming Your Property with Expert Landscaping Services
Greensboro Commercial Landscaping Services involve the design, construction and maintenance of outdoor business spaces. This is about more than just curb appeal, it is about projecting the right message to employees and customers while promoting sustainability and fostering employee wellbeing.
Instead of dealing with multiple service providers for lawn care, irrigation and snow removal, a single commercial landscape service will get to know your property well. This helps them deliver exceptional service and provide accurate pricing.
Commercial landscape services are a critical element in achieving business goals, whether those goals include enhancing property value, supporting employee recruiting and retention efforts, or upholding brand standards across multiple locations. Creating a well-maintained, aesthetically pleasing environment is not only a way to create a first impression that leaves customers, tenants and employees with a positive image of your business, but it is also a proven method for increasing productivity in the workplace.
It is important to note that the prerequisite skill, scope of work and permits required for Commercial Landscaping Services differ significantly from Residential landscaping services. This is because a Commercial Landscaping endeavor can span a building, an entire campus or an industrial complex and require far more workers, tools and equipment.
The process of designing a commercial landscape involves the following:
A site analysis is conducted, considering the existing vegetation and typography, with the goal of evaluating the potential for improvement, both functionally and aesthetically. A commercial landscape professional will then collaborate with a client or business to develop an outdoor space that meets the client’s needs, as well as their budget. In addition, a commercial landscaper will consider the environmental impact of their designs and integrate features that support sustainability, such as water reclamation, rain gardens or pollinator habitats. A well-designed commercial landscape will achieve a balance between beauty, functionality and cost efficiency.
Installation
Commercial landscaping services involve the design, installation and maintenance of outdoor business properties. These include offices, apartments, shopping centers and more. A well-maintained commercial landscape helps attract and retain tenants, employees and customers. It also promotes a positive image for the company and its brand.
Commercial Landscape services often start with a consultation and site analysis to understand the client’s goals, needs and budget. This information is used to create a conceptual design, which is then presented for feedback and revisions. Depending on the client, the commercial landscaper may be asked to start from scratch, or they may work with an existing landscape that requires an upgrade or expansion.
Unlike residential landscaping, commercial landscapes are generally larger and more complex projects. They often require a much larger workforce and equipment to complete. Moreover, they are often required to comply with regulations, maintain safety and ensure environmental impact. Commercial landscapers must be able to meet the needs of multiple stakeholders, from management and staff to the public and local authorities.
In addition to standard turf care, maintenance and design services, commercial landscapers may be called upon for tree services, irrigation maintenance, soil testing and plant bed design. Additionally, they are often required to offer snow removal services during winter. Snow removal can be especially difficult for a commercial property, and it is important to choose a service that has experience in this area. The service should be able to determine the best way to remove snow without damaging the turf or other landscape features.
The right commercial landscape can improve the overall value of a property and help it stand out from its competitors. It can also enhance employee recruitment and retention, boost productivity and provide an attractive atmosphere for clients and visitors. However, it is important to find a commercial landscaping service that is not only capable of meeting the requirements of your business, but also affordable.
At Call Dare, we offer a broad range of commercial landscaping services in Doylestown and throughout Bucks County, PA. Our experts are dedicated to transforming your commercial property into well-maintained, aesthetically pleasing areas that meet your business’s needs and create a lasting impression on your clients and employees. For more information, contact us today.
Maintenance
Commercial landscaping involves the planning, design and installation of outdoor commercial properties. Whether it’s a retail center, business park, office complex or university campus, well-maintained landscapes support employee recruitment and retention goals, enhance customer experiences, uphold brand standards, and improve property values.
Oftentimes, the landscapes of these types of facilities require a different type of care than residential properties. This is because the skill required, scope of work, and permits needed differ between commercial and residential. This is especially true when it comes to the maintenance aspect of commercial landscaping services.
A commercial landscape provides customers with a first impression of your business and, as such, it is critical to maintain a professional image. That’s why it is important to consider the maintenance options available for your commercial property in Doylestown, PA and throughout Bucks County.
The most common commercial landscape services include regular lawn mowing, trimming, fertilization and irrigation management. Other commercial landscaping services include:
Mulching: Removing dead vegetation and enhancing the appearance of your property by reducing soil erosion, adding nutrients to the ground, and maintaining an attractive appearance. Weed Control: Using proper hand-pulling methods to remove weeds or chemical treatments to prevent them from coming back, ensuring beds and turf areas remain weed-free.
Planting and Tree Care: Strategically planting trees to enhance your landscape’s aesthetic and provide functional benefits, including shade and noise reduction. Tree pruning is a necessary service to promote healthy growth and maintain safety.
Water Management: Providing an efficient irrigation system that is tailored to your unique commercial landscape and seasonal weather conditions, to ensure all plants are receiving the appropriate amount of water.
Having one commercial landscape company handle all of your property’s needs is the most cost-effective and convenient way to ensure that all areas of your facility are being cared for. When a single crew is responsible for the entire property, they become familiar with it and its unique needs and will quickly notice any changes that may indicate potential problems or issues. This also allows them to anticipate any special requirements, such as the need for extra de-icing materials in certain areas due to snow or ice accumulation.
Winterization
Commercial landscaping services provide businesses with a powerful extension of horticulture that supports recruitment, productivity, and brand identity at one or many locations. The services include design, construction, and maintenance to achieve an inviting, functional, and safe outdoor environment.
Landscaping is an ongoing process of planting and sculpting the earth, but the work doesn’t stop in the fall and winter. Commercial landscape companies offer comprehensive winterization to prepare the property for the snow and ice of the season. This includes snow plowing and removal, de-icing services, and the use of sand mixtures to promote traction on slippery surfaces. It also includes the inspection and preparation of equipment for winter, as well as ensuring that irrigation systems are shut down properly to avoid damage or water loss.
Irrigation systems are a significant investment, and often buried underground and out of sight, which makes them easy to neglect as the weather turns colder. However, failure to prepare for winter can cost facilities tens of thousands of dollars in repairs and replacement. Proper care and maintenance of these systems ensures they continue to deliver valuable benefits throughout the year.
The 2023 market for commercial landscaping services continues to grow as more businesses recognize the value of a beautifully maintained environment. Landscaping services are a key component in business marketing, employee recruitment and retention, and overall property value. In addition, landscaping enhances the environment by reducing the urban heat island effect and providing habitat for pollinators and other wildlife.
A single contract with a commercial landscaping company can provide facility managers with an integrated approach to landscape maintenance and weed control, turf care, plant bed management, tree services, and snow and ice management. Working with a single commercial landscaping provider saves time and money by eliminating the hassle of bidding, multiple contracts, and coordinating service providers. It also gives crews a sense of familiarity with the property, so they are more likely to notice changes that could signal potential problems, such as puddles or areas where water may linger and require extra ice melt. This level of familiarity can make all the difference in the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of a commercial landscape project.
Why You Should Invest in Window Replacement
A quality window can quiet traffic and street noise, provide a view of your garden, and protect your home from weather damage. But you need to keep an eye on prices.
Improper measurements can lead to air leaks and water infiltration, raising your energy costs. Also, the wrong type of window may not fit your space or match your house’s style. Contact Window Replacement Ellicott City, MD for professional help.
Replacing old windows can drastically improve your home’s energy efficiency. Single-pane windows are a major source of heat loss during winter and gain during summer, so swapping them out for double or triple pane glass with low-E coatings and vacuum-sealed argon can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills.
When selecting new replacement windows, it is important to consider their insulative value, durability and style. There are many options to choose from, including fiberglass and composite frames that offer excellent insulative properties and are a durable alternative to natural wood. Additionally, you can opt for window sashes that are constructed from high-strength aluminum to provide increased durability and a sleek appearance.
Another important consideration is the type of glass you want for your replacement windows. Double or triple-pane glass provides superior insulation compared to single-pane glass, decreasing your heating and cooling costs. Furthermore, if you are replacing several windows in your home, installing glass with an ENERGY STAR® rating can help you qualify for a rebate from the local utility company.
The installation process for replacement windows can vary depending on your choice of full frame or retrofit installation. In a full frame installation, the existing window and trim are removed to access the window sash, which is then replaced with the new replacement. This method is typically preferred as it minimizes the amount of construction debris left behind in your home.
In a retrofit installation, the replacement windows are inserted into the existing window frame from the inside. This method is typically used for older homes that have original single-pane windows and can be less expensive than a full frame installation.
Window replacement is an excellent way to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency, curb appeal and resale value. It is also a great option for homeowners looking to update their kitchen or bathroom, as it can be less costly and more convenient to combine window replacement with those larger projects.
Security
Modern window replacements offer more than aesthetic appeal, they are also highly effective in enhancing your home’s security. With features like laminated glass and advanced locking systems, your windows will be harder to break into. This is a major benefit for homeowners concerned about safety, especially those living with young children.
When it comes to securing your home, the most important thing is to prevent intrusions before they occur. Window replacements are a great way to do this, as newer windows are designed with advanced locking mechanisms that make it difficult or impossible for intruders to gain access. The addition of a lock is a simple and affordable way to improve the security of your windows.
If you’re looking for additional ways to boost your window’s security, consider adding a window film to your windows. This pliable poly-based coating goes right on top of your windows and creates a protective layer that makes it more difficult for intruders to break the glass. It also helps to deter unwanted attention by obscuring the interior of your home.
In addition to installing a window film, you can also upgrade your existing windows with tempered or laminated glass. Both options are extremely durable and shatters into smaller pieces, making them more difficult for intruders to break. Laminated glass is even more effective as it incorporates a layer of polyvinyl butyral that holds the broken shards together. This means that intruders will have a much more difficult time breaking into your home, and you’ll be able to escape your home if there is a fire or other emergency.
Another way to make your windows more secure is by investing in a double-hung window. The bottom sash can be secured shut with childproofing hardware while the top sash can be opened for fresh air. This will keep children from opening the window and will provide an extra layer of security for your family.
Before beginning your window replacement project, be sure to discuss safety concerns with your licensed contractor. They will be able to recommend the best options for your home and ensure that your project meets all necessary safety standards.
Maintenance
Investing in window replacement is an excellent way to increase the value of your property. Newer windows are more energy efficient, and they offer a wide variety of features that can enhance your home’s appearance. Moreover, they require less maintenance than older windows and are often covered by warranties, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run. However, it’s important to assess your needs and preferences before making a final decision.
A well-functioning set of windows can keep your home insulated and comfortable in the colder months. But if they’re drafty or poorly sealed, your heating bills can skyrocket. Fortunately, a professional installer can help you reduce these costs with the right installation and cleanup procedures. They’ll make sure your window sashes fit snugly into the frame, then insulate and seal the area around the frame to prevent leaks. They’ll also make sure that all debris is removed from the worksite and properly disposed of after installation.
If you live in a region that’s prone to high winds and rain, a new replacement window can provide added protection for your property. Modern vinyl windows are designed to withstand these conditions and are resistant to rot and corrosion. Choosing the right window for your climate will ensure that your investment is protected for years to come.
In addition to protecting your investments, regular maintenance will help your replacement windows look and function their best. For routine cleaning, water and a mild detergent or glass cleaner are usually sufficient. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, which can cause window damage and stripped finishes.
Window restoration is a great alternative to replacement and can restore original window frames while retaining their functionality. It’s also more affordable and environmentally friendly than new construction. Additionally, it can help preserve historic properties, which may be subject to strict preservation guidelines.
Before the crew arrives, prepare your space by moving furniture away from the windows and removing any wall decorations or family heirlooms. This will provide the crew with unobstructed access and minimize any potential damages to your belongings. Lastly, cover floors with canvas, cotton, or plastic drop cloths to protect them from debris.
Durability
The durability of your windows depends on a variety of factors, including material and installation quality. Vinyl windows typically last 20 years, while aluminum frames usually last 30-40 years. Wood frames are more durable, but can require extensive maintenance over time. A window’s lifespan can also be shortened by climate conditions, which cause extreme expansion and contraction, leading to premature deterioration of the seal and glass panes.
The window’s u-factor (the measurement of its thermal efficiency) also determines its longevity. Choosing windows with a low u-factor is an effective way to cut energy costs and lengthen your window’s lifespan.
When determining the right window for your home, you’ll want to take into consideration its appearance, functionality, and warranty. New replacement windows may have a higher upfront cost, but they’ll save you money in the long run with increased energy efficiency and improved home value.
It’s also important to understand the different parts of a window so that you can better assess your needs and communicate them with potential contractors. The head, jambs, and sill are the main components that make up a window frame. The head is the uppermost horizontal piece forming the top of the window frame. The jambs are the vertical pieces forming each side of the window frame. The sill is the bottom portion of the window frame that supports the weight of the sash.
A window’s durability can be enhanced with routine maintenance. Cleaning windows regularly with a mild detergent is a great way to keep them looking like new and free of mold and dirt. Additionally, re-caulking the frame is an easy and effective way to prevent leaks. Window replacement companies that offer maintenance services can also help you to maintain your windows and improve their longevity.
Window replacement can be a mess, especially with full-frame installations that involve removing the existing frame. However, with retrofit windows that fit within the existing frame, the process can be much cleaner. In addition, it’s possible to order a replacement window without a nail fin, which eliminates the need to remove siding or exterior trim.
Drain Cleaning – How to Get Rid of Clogged Drains Without Calling a Plumber
Clean drains promote a hygienic living environment by preventing odor-producing residue from building up in pipes. However, clogs can occur even after proper maintenance. Contact Drain Cleaning Sarasota for professional help.
Luckily, homeowners can use several tools to prevent and clear up blockages. Some of these include: baking soda, a plunger, motorized drain augers, and hydro jetting.
The plunger is one of the most commonly used tools for drain cleaning. It’s a simple, inexpensive tool that can be effective when used properly. It can save homeowners the expense of calling a plumber, and it can also be less harmful to the environment than chemical drain cleaners.
There are three main types of plungers: cup plungers, flange plungers and modern designs called accordion plungers. All are designed to create suction that can dislodge blockages from sinks, tubs and toilets. A cup plunger, the type you’re probably most familiar with, is best for drains that have a flat surface such as kitchen and bathroom sinks, bath tubs or showers. Flange plungers have a rubber extension, called a flange, that provides a better seal for clogged toilets. Modern accordion plungers are versatile and easy to use.
Before using a plunger, make sure it’s clean and disinfected. It’s a good idea to run a little hot water over the rubber part of the plunger, which will help it become more flexible and improve its ability to form an air-tight seal. It’s also important to clean and rinse the handle of the plunger after each use to prevent buildup of dirt, germs and odor.
When plunging, start by covering the drain opening with a drain cover or a plastic bag (you can DIY one). This will prevent water from splashing out during the process and will also help the plunger maintain an air-tight seal. It’s a good idea to manually remove some water from the sink or tub, too, to avoid creating a messy situation.
Next, place the cup of the plunger over the drain and press down firmly to create an air-tight seal. Once the seal is made, thrust the handle upward. This will force the clog up and out of the drain and create a vacuum that pulls up water and any other debris that may be trapped in the pipe. It’s important to strike a balance between the amount of force used and the length of time you spend plunging. Over-exerting yourself can cause back, arm or shoulder pain and may even lead to a physical injury.
Wire Hanger
Clogged drains are an all-too-common household problem that can cause much frustration. Whether you have a clogged toilet, sink or shower, there are many tools and techniques that can help break down the blockage and restore water flow. One such tool is the humble wire hanger, a versatile household item that can be used to clear both tub and shower drains. While it might not be as effective as a professional plumber snake, the hanger can save you a trip to the hardware store for an expensive chemical solution and may even work on stubborn clogs that a plunger cannot.
To use the hanger, straighten out a standard wire coat hanger and bend one end slightly into a small hook shape. Feed the hooked end down the drain opening as far as it will go, then jiggle and twist the hanger to lift or fish out any gunk that is stuck. Be sure to use gentle pressure and not too much force in order to reduce the risk of damaging the pipe.
The hanger might not reach as far as a plumbing snake, but it can be an excellent choice for clogged bathtub drains, especially when used in combination with a sink stopper or a shower curtain to catch any hair and other debris that would otherwise fall down the drain. If the clog is particularly stubborn, try using a hose with hot water to flush out the drain and pipe.
If the clog persists, consider removing the P-trap underneath your sink and cleaning it out. The bent piece of pipe that sits tucked away beneath your sink is a great place for grease and other debris to build up, and it can often be a root cause of a blocked drain. Be sure to place a bucket or pan below the trap in case some of the gunk spills out, and be sure to wear rubber gloves before handling.
Another effective way to unclog a drain is to pour a 50/50 mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain and let it sit for 30-60 minutes. The reaction between the two chemicals can help dissolve soap scum and other residue that can build up in your pipes. Follow up by plunging the toilet several times to help flush out any remaining debris. If the clog still persists, call a professional plumber for an inspection and possible repair.
Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners are effective at dissolving some types of blockages, but they come with many downsides. They’re dangerous to your health if they come into contact with your skin, eyes or nose, and they can also damage pipes. The high temperatures they generate when they work can warp, melt or corrode pipes. In addition, liquid chemical drain cleaners often don’t work on clogs that are farther down in the pipe.
Chemicals in drain cleaners are also harmful to the environment. They can leak out of drains and into the surrounding soil, waterways and air, where they can cause environmental and health problems. In some cases, pouring chemical drain cleaners down the drain can even break down the pipes themselves.
The most common chemical drain cleaners are caustic, oxidizing and acidic. Caustic drain cleaners contain bases such as lye or caustic potash, which give off sodium hydroxide ions to create a reaction that clears clogs. These chemicals are very strong and can be hazardous if they come into contact with your skin, so it’s important to wear gloves and protective clothing when using them.
Oxidizing chemical drain cleaners, which include household bleach, peroxide and nitrates, release chemicals that oxidize organic material in the clog, breaking it down into smaller pieces. These cleaners usually don’t work as well on hair or grease clogs, but they are effective on a variety of materials.
Acidic drain cleaners, which include sulfuric and hydrochloric acid, are the most powerful but corrosive drain cleaners. They can destroy metal pipes, but they’re generally only used on extremely greasy or solidified blockages.
While chemical drain cleaners can be effective on some clogs, they’re usually not worth the risks. If you’re struggling with a stubborn blockage, try using a plunger or calling a professional plumber for help. If the problem is in your sewer line, it may be a much more serious issue that could result in a costly and messy sewer backup. In that case, it’s best to call a professional plumber right away.
Natural Drain Cleaners
There are several natural methods that can be used for drain cleaning. Using these cleaners instead of chemical ones can help prevent pipe damage and keep your home safer.
Baking soda and vinegar are a common household ingredients that can be used for drain cleaning. Combining these products creates a reaction that helps to dissolve buildup and eliminate unpleasant odors. The best part is that these products are safe for your pipes and the environment.
Another option for drain cleaning is boiling water. Pouring hot water down a drain helps remove trapped food particles and encourages the movement of grease. It’s a good idea to perform this step once per month to prevent blocked drains.
For mild clogs, baking soda and lemon juice can be effective. This combination is simple to perform and will leave your drains smelling fresh. To use this method, remove the sink pop-up or tub stopper and carefully pour in a pot of boiling water. Be careful not to splash or splatter, as this could lead to injury.
Dish soap can also be used for drain cleaning. This product is great for grease clogs because it’s tough on oil and can easily dissolve residue. To use this product, simply mix equal parts of dish soap and hot water and pour down the drain.
If you’re looking for a drain cleaner that’s even more natural, try biological drain cleaners. These products contain “good bacteria” that consume and digest fats, oils, and grease (FOG) in your pipes. The bacteria then converts the FOG into water and air that easily passes through your drains. Biological drain cleaners aren’t as effective as chemical products, and they require more time to activate.
Although chemical drain cleaners may be able to dissolve blockages quickly, they can be harmful for your pipes and the environment. If you’re experiencing a serious clog, it’s important to contact a professional plumber. They’ll be able to assess your situation and recommend the right course of action. For a more preventative approach to drain cleaning, consider using a plunger or a wire coat hanger to remove large items from your drains, and implementing a regular drain trap maintenance schedule.
The Art of Lawn Care
Keeping a lawn in good condition requires regular attention to several factors. Irregular or poor maintenance damages grass and encourages weed growth.
Set clear goals for your lawn and create a schedule that you can stick to. Regular lawn care can reduce the need for chemical treatments that harm the environment. Visit https://www.primecutlawnky.com/ to learn more.
Whether you want to keep your yard looking neat and trim or allow it to have its own natural beauty, there is an art to caring for your lawn. Keeping on top of lawn treatments, monitoring weeds and pest damage, and even changing the type of grass you have are all part of lawn care. It can be a lot of work and requires regular attention. That’s why many homeowners choose to hire professional lawn care services to manage their yards and maintain the healthy, thriving lawn they desire.
The most basic of lawn care tasks is regularly mowing your grass. Depending on the climate, this may be every week during the spring and summer. It’s important to keep in mind the grass needs to be mowed at the correct height for it to grow properly. Too short and the grass may become weak and die, while too long and it will be overgrown and take away sunlight from the rest of the lawn.
Weed control is another crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy lawn. Crabgrass and other broadleaf weeds steal vital nutrients, water and sun from your grass. Regular weeding, either with manual removal or chemical sprays, keeps your weeds from taking over your lawn and leaving it brown and dead.
Fertilizers are also essential to lawn health, but all fertilizers are not created equal. Homeowners should learn the proper timing to apply fertilizer to their lawns so that it won’t damage or fuel weed growth. They should also know how to test their soil for pH and nutrient levels, so they can amend the soil accordingly.
A final aspect of lawn care involves managing insects and diseases that can harm the grass. While some insects, such as grubs and sod webworms, are naturally found in most yards, high populations can destroy a lawn. It’s important for homeowners to know what type of insect pests are living in their yards so that they can treat them as quickly as possible before they become out of control.
Whether you are an experienced gardener or new to DIY lawn care, these tips can help you achieve the lush green lawn of your dreams this spring! If you’re ready to leave your lawn care to the pros, contact a reputable lawn care company for a free estimate.
Know Your Soil
The soil in your yard plays a huge role in how well your lawn thrives. It affects how the grass grows, absorbs nutrients and holds moisture.
Knowing what kind of soil you have can help you plan for lawn care, like when to aerate, fertilize or spray for pests. It also influences your plant choices and how often you should mow, water or weed.
Fortunately, finding out what type of soil you have is easy. You can test it yourself or have a professional soil analysis done. To do a simple test, find an empty straight-sided jar (like a mason or peanut butter jar) and fill it to about one-third to one-half full of soil. Then place it in a cool spot and let it set for at least four minutes. You can then observe the internal workings of your soil, such as worm burrows and casts. Healthy soil will have plenty of earthworms, as they aerate the ground and feed on organic material.
Another important factor in your soil is its texture and pH level. It’s important to have your soil tested before planting, as the results will determine what types of plants can grow there and how well they will perform. The pH level tells you how acidic or alkaline your soil is, and if it’s too high or low, it can prevent your lawn from growing properly.
While the chemistry of your soil is complex, you can improve it by adding organic matter. This includes rotted leaves, shredded bark or wood chips, hay, straw, degraded manure and any other natural, non-mineral substance that has decayed into a dark, crumbly texture. In addition, you can add compost, which is a combination of any or all of the above, plus food scraps, coffee grounds and other organic matter.
A regular mowing schedule, proper watering and fertilization are essential to a beautiful, lush lawn. Make sure to have your lawn mowed at the correct height for the type of grass in your yard and to use slow-release fertilizers that won’t leach nutrients into the environment.
Know Your Fertilizers
You can have the best-looking lawn on the block with proper fertilization. Regularly feeding your grass helps it grow thick and strong so it’s more resistant to disease, weather extremes and pesky weeds.
Choosing the right fertilizer starts with a soil test. Use the results to determine how much nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (commonly called N-P-K) to use in your yard. You can find this information on the fertilizer bag, usually as three numbers listed in the order of N-P-K: for example, 23-3-8 indicates 23% Nitrogen, 3% Phosphorus and 8% Potassium. You’ll also need to decide between liquid or granular fertilizer, and whether to purchase organic or inorganic.
Liquid plant fertilizers are fast-acting and available in hose-end bottles for easy application. They contain a concentrate that you mix with water before applying. Some are formulated for specific plants, such as roses or hydrangeas, and others are general houseplant fertilizers or garden fertilizers. Plant food spikes, on the other hand, are solid fertilizer sticks that you push into the ground to dispense the nutrients over time.
Weed and feed fertilizers do double duty by both feeding your lawn and controlling weeds, and are available as liquid or granular forms. The exact weed-control method depends on the product, and some include an herbicide to kill only certain types of weeds while other products are non-toxic to people, pets and the environment.
The timing of fertilization depends on your location and your grass type. Cool-season grasses do best in spring, while warm-season grasses thrive in summer and fall. Using fertilizer suited to each season is key, and should be done in accordance with your soil test results.
A common mistake is over-fertilizing, which can damage grass and cause nutrient runoff into nearby lakes and rivers, wreaking havoc on water quality and contributing to algae blooms. Over-fertilizing can also lead to burning of the grass, causing it to thin and develop bare spots. Following proper mowing and watering procedures will prevent both over-fertilization and burns. Finally, be sure to properly clean up any fertilizer that has inadvertently landed on hard surfaces like sidewalks and driveways, to help prevent the spread of weeds.
Know Your Pests
Identifying pests is one of the most important parts of practicing Integrated Pest Management. Not only does accurate identification make it possible to determine whether or not a particular pest is harmful, but it also makes it easier to manage the pest by identifying its life cycle and habitat, and by understanding factors that promote its growth or inhibit its control. There are a number of resources to help you with this. Some are available online; others can be found in field guides or at your local library or Cooperative Extension Office.
The best form of pest control is prevention, so learning about the pests that can invade your lawn is an important part of keeping your grass healthy. Some pests, such as grubs, are serious threats to the health of a well-managed turfgrass. Others, such as lawn mites or aphids, are more of a nuisance. But even those that are not usually severe pests can be a problem when they get out of hand.
Selecting the correct turfgrass species and variety for a given site is the first step in preventing disease and insect damage. Using an unadapted turfgrass could require excessive use of pesticides, fertilizers and water, as well as result in reduced health and beauty.
Many common lawn diseases can be controlled with basic BMPs, such as mowing, aerating, removing plant debris and proper fertilization. However, under certain climatic conditions, the pressure of disease can overwhelm small to large areas of even the most well-maintained lawns. Dollar spot, brown patch, leaf spot, rust and stripe smut are some of the more troublesome diseases that impact home lawns.
While lawn maintenance can seem complicated, a little knowledge goes a long way in ensuring the success of your efforts. Keep these tips in mind to create a beautiful, green lawn that your neighbors will envy. For even more expert help, consider hiring a professional to handle your lawn treatments and take the stress out of maintaining your landscape.
