Studies have shown that in the United States, the average homeowner spends around 40 hours just mowing their lawn each year, and we collectively spend a whopping $8.5 billion on lawn care products and equipment. Your lawn is a huge part of the aesthetic of your home, and a cornerstone of home maintenance.
It can seem daunting to maintain something as large as your entire lawn, but here are a few tips to get you pointed in the right direction:
Fertilize your lawn
Fertilizer is an important part in keeping your lawn healthy. One mistake that many people make is over-fertilizing their lawn, which can cause grass to grow incredibly quick, creating more work for you. Try to fertilize a couple times a year, once in the spring, and again around the middle of the summer. Be sure to use a product that is high in nitrogen, because that is what stimulates growth and that deep green color we love.
Fertilizer spreading
Generally, it’s best to fertilize your lawn after it’s been freshly cut. This allows the fertilizer to work its way into the soil easier. You should also make sure the grass is dry when you go to spread the fertilizer; if the grass is wet the fertilizer may stick, burning your lawn severely and undoing your hard work.
Investing in a fertilizer spreader may be a good idea, as it ensures an equal distribution across the entire lawn. Be sure to load it on your driveway though, just in case you spill any fertilizer accidentally. After the fertilizer is spread, run your irrigation system, or water the fertilizer in with your garden hose.
Lawnmower tips
Often, the lawnmower is one of the most overlooked tools in the homeowner’s arsenal, which is strange because it is often the most expensive. Practicing some simple maintenance techniques can go a long way to ensuring that your mower gives you top-notch results for years to come.
When the summer is over and it’s time to put the mower into hibernation, start with draining the gasoline out of the tank. Any gas left in the tank for that long can break down and gum up things like the fuel lines and carburetor. A useful tip is to use a turkey baster to extract the gasoline, this is much easier and less messy than turning the mower upside down.
When the weather begins to warm back up and it’s time to get the mower out, you should consider taking it in to have the blade sharpened and balanced. This will allow your mower to cut effortlessly and leave you with a much smoother product.
While there is more to caring for your lawn than what is listed here, these tips will get you started in the right direction. If you have any questions about our lawn or pest control services, give Miller Pest Solution a call today at (941) 702-7777.