Lawn Care Tips for New Homeowners

Lawn Care Tips for New Homeowners: What to Know

Once you’ve fully moved into your new house it is time to start focusing on your lawn. Depending on the time of year, you may be needing to mow, fertilize or plant grass seeds. Taking care of your lawn will not only keep it looking nice, but it will also make you feel accomplished.

Mowing

During spring and summer, you will have to mow your lawn on a regular basis. Be sure to invest in a mower that is right for your yard. If you have a small yard, a push mower will do just fine, but if you have a medium to the large yard you will want a riding mower.

Generally, when mowing, you do not want to cut off more than one-third of the grass blade. You should typically keep your mower on the normal setting in order to receive the right length. Cutting your grass too low can cause pressure on the turf.

Watering 

During the summertime, grass needs around an inch of water a week. Ideally, you should water your grass three times a week for 20 minutes at a time. It is best to water in the morning, as this will keep the grass hydrated throughout the day. 

If you are using sprinklers, be sure to make sure the grass is getting evenly watered and there is nowhere that the water is pooling. If you notice areas where the grass is brittle and discolored, then it is not receiving enough water.

Aeration and Fertilizing

Fertilizing your lawn can help your grass grow thick, full, and strong. Before fertilizing, it is a good idea to aerate the soil, as it improves irrigation, makes for stronger roots, and allows for fertilizer to be more efficient. It is always best to aerate your lawn in the fall.

A spreader can be used to evenly fertilize your lawn. It is best to fertilize in the fall, from September to November and the spring, April to the beginning of June.

Weeding and Gardening

In order to allow your grass and garden to grow healthy, you need to weed on a regular basis. Hand weeding is often the most effective way to get rid of weeds. It is best to do it while the weeds are still young and pull out the entire plant to prevent it from spreading. 

When starting a garden, it is best to use high-quality soil. When planting vegetables, allow the seeds to soak overnight, then drain them and plant them in vertical rows. For flowers, it is best to start with something low maintenance, like perennials, as they are beautiful and can easily be maintained.

Caring For Your Lawn

Maintaining your lawn can be a lot of work, but with the right care, it can flourish. By following the proper steps, you can keep your lawn and garden healthy for years to come.

About Author: Tony Manhart is founder and editor in chief at Gardening Dream. Tony’s enthusiasm and rich experience in all things related to growing plants have led him to share his abundant knowledge with gardening aficionados all over the world. When he is not working around his own garden, Tony spends his time writing tips and tricks on a variety of subjects related to plant cultivation and soil maintenance.