Lawn care may seem easy but it can be a daunting task for the average homeowner. In fact, it can be downright intimidating. There are so many different ways to even the simplest of chores from mowing to planting and even trimming. It can be tough to know which approach is the right one.
At Martin John Company, we help commercial customers throughout the North Shore area address all of their landscaping needs. And we often get the same questions time and time again. Want to know what the experts have to say? Here are the top questions we get and what you need to know!
How do I know when my lawn needs mowing?
During the warmer months, the typical lawn requires mowing weekly. Of course, periods of heavier rainfall may increase the need to trim. Where you set the blade on your mower is just as important as how often you mow. Keeping the blade too low can lead to a yellow and dried out lawn. The perfect height is one which only cuts the top 1/3 of your specific type of grass.
When is the best time to plant my flowers and vegetables?
To find the answer to this question, you should reference the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map. The Chicago-area falls into the “5b” zone. This map will let you know when it’s best to plant hardy flowers, delicate flowers, and different varieties of vegetables.
How often should I water my lawn?
The right watering schedule does not depend as much on how often you do it but more about how you do it. Most lawns require about 1 to 1 ½ inches of water to keep it lush and healthy. Watering is best done in the morning between 4 am and 10 am when the air is cooler. Fewer, deeper soakings are better than more frequent, shorter sessions.
What’s the best way to deal with pesky weeds?
Hands down the best way to handle pesky weeds is by stopping them before they grow. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide prior to seed germination is a great first step. A post-emergent herbicide can be used for those already invading your lawn. As always, an expert landscaper can help you keep even the toughest of unwanted weeds from taking over your lawn.
With a little lawn care know-how and an expert landscaper such as Martin John Company on your side, you are sure to have one of the best lawns in town. Follow these professional tips to get your landscaping headed in the right direction while the days of summer are still here. Contact our team today to learn more about Martin John Company’s many lawn care services.