Some Tips To Having A Great Lawn

Greg Lyman, a turf specialist with Michigan State University, has a tall tale to tell about lawn care: Mow high. And that’s the truth.

For most residential mowers, the maximum height is 2.5 to 3 inches. Even 3.5 is fine.

The taller the grass, the more it shades the soil. That makes it harder for weed seeds to germinate and also reduces the rate of moisture evaporation.

Lyman also advises leaving the grass clippings right on the lawn. Blades of grass are loaded with water and nutrients, which are recycled back to the soil as the cut pieces decompose.

That makes it possible to cut back at least one application of fertilizer and doesn’t contribute to thatch.

Here are other big-return lawn techniques:

Mow often enough that no more than one-third of the grass height is cut at one time.

If thatch is a problem, or the soil is compacted, spring is a good time to aerate the turf.

Sharpen the mower blade. A dull blade makes a ragged cut. A ragged edge may also make the lawn more susceptible to diseases.

Use the right seed for the location. Consider the amount of sun the area gets, the use and the care it will receive.