Late Summer/Early Fall Lawn Care Tips from Advanced Tree Care

LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill. - Sept. 22, 2018 - PRLog -- Your lawn is central to true curb appeal. A properly maintained lawn helps you feel good about your home and can also boost its value. This is true whether you've just moved into a new home, are preparing to put yours on the market, or want to give the old homestead a facelift. But where to start? Here are some tips for late summer/early fall lawn care from Advanced Tree Care.

Mow—but not too short

A healthy, thick lawn has no space for weeds. To cultivate a lush lawn, don't cut your grass too short when you mow, or the grass may go into shock and the weeds will take over. Keep your mower blades 2 ½ inches from the roots, and never cut more than 1/3 of the grass blade. And keep your mower blades very sharp. Dull blades tear rather than cut.

Water—but not too much or too often

Water and sun drive the plant growth cycle. Grass that is overwatered doesn't develop a deep and healthy root system, which can protect it in heat or drought. Resist the temptation to overwater your lawn, and accept that everyone's grass may be a little brown right now.

Fertilize properly, whatever you choose

The proper time to apply fertilizer is early in the season when your lawn is growing rapidly. If your lawn needs a quick pick-me-up, consider the application of an organic fertilizer, which is fast-acting and produces noticeable results. A longer-lasting, less costly option is organic garden manure. While it can be more labor-intensive, and requires more per square foot than a fertilizer would, organic garden manure lasts considerably longer and it's better for the health of the soil (and your grass).

Be patient and vigilant with weeds

If your lawn needs some TLC because it's choked with weeds, your most important tool is your patience. Start by weeding, even if it requires breaking up the job into small chunks. Follow the advice above for fertilizing, proper mowing, and optimal watering. It may take a season or two, but eventually your lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood.

It's true that we specialize in tree care. Our philosophy, though, is that trees are only one part of your property's ecosystem. Trees thrive best in a healthy, disease-free lawn. It's all connected: when your lawn isn't overly dependent on watering, it helps hold moisture in your soil, which also benefits your trees.