We all want an attractive, healthy yard to enjoy in the warm months, but several landscaping mistakes will sabotage that dream. Take care to avoid these common errors and you'll end up taking better care of your yard, turf and gardens.
Mistake # 1 - Watering Too Often
Landscapers agree that lawns, trees and flower beds prefer to be watered deeply with less frequency. This schedule allows for better root development, which in turns helps to sustain that lush green grass and healthy plants through long droughts. You want a gentle spray of water extended over a decent period of time and on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, depending on soil and climate conditions.
- Try This - Water your lawn using a standard sprinkler setting. After 30 minutes, dig a spade into the soil and remove a wedge to see how far the moisture absorbed. You're aiming for 4 to 6 inches of absorption. If necessary, water longer until you reach that depth, and then note that span as the ideal watering time for your grass. It may need to be extended with seasonal changes.
Remember that sandier soils may require less watering time, but do not make the mistake of increasing water pressure when watering clay soils. Heavier flow will only result in more run off and wasted water. Keep it slow and steady and water for the appropriate length of time on a regular basis--often weekly.
Mistake # 2 - Cutting the Lawn Too Short
How you care for your lawn affects the overall appearance, and proper mow helps to achieve a pristine landscape. Long grass blades present three clear benefits:
- Long grass shades the ground to reduce evaporation and help retain water in the soil
- Long grass captures more sunlight and aids in photosynthesis
- Long grass blocks more weed seeds from penetrating the ground
Find out the ideal height for your particular grass type. Seed manufacturers like Scotts offer handy tools for identifying your grass type. Look for the recommended height range, and remember that experts recommend cutting in the high end of that range to produce healthier turf. Set your mower to the proper height and check that setting every once in awhile.
The only time it makes sense to trim the grass lower is in late fall, when a buzzcut helps to avoid mold growth over the winter months.
Also make sure that your mower blades are sharpened before use. A dull blade rips the leaf off instead of providing a clean cut, which in turn promotes disease and an unattractive lawn. Invest in a quality mower and care for it well, including sharpening the blades, setting the right height, checking oil and fuel levels and maintaining general cleanliness.
Mistake # 3 - Ignoring the Value of Non-Turf Features
Grass has earned a reputation as the “easy plant,†grown well in almost any soil and climate condition. It provides a tidy, fresh appearance and is comfortable to walk and play on. But many landscapes and properties are better served by non-turf features.
Are you trying to grow grass in the shade or battling the challenges of rocky soil? Think about using hardscaping features like a patio, rock garden or deck to present the beauty you want without the hassle of growing grass.
Xeriscaping is a landscaping movement growing in popularity, as water conservation and environmental concerns ignite the passions of people across the United States. While you don't need to eliminate all turf to create an eco-friendly yard, it makes sense to opt for non-turf features in places where grass will have a hard time thriving.
Mistake # 4 - Apply Fertilizers Without Reading the Directions
Fertilizers help your grass to grow and give your annuals and perennials an extra shot of color. Fertilizers also aid in the establishment of new trees, as well as encouraging fruit trees to blossom and bear a robust crop. But fertilizers are only helpful when you follow the application process carefully.
All types of commercial fertilizer—those brands you pick up in the store—come with detailed instructions regarding the amount to use, application process and frequency. Be sure to keep packaging on hand for easy reference.
When using organic or homemade fertilizer—compost or compost tea, for example—you may need to experiment a little more. Research and learn from other people's experiences, adapting the information to suit your particular climate and landscaping conditions. Start with a cautious approach, adding more fertilizer as you go to reduce the risk of overkill, burning and other extreme damage.
Be sure to read up on the type of fertilizer before applying. Some products may harm the environment, while others can present a health risk to our families and wildlife. Be responsible in what you use on the lawn, as well as in how you use it.
Mistake # 5 - Let Pests Run Wild
A wide variety of pests can attack your well planned landscape, including everything from fungi and plant disease to bugs, critters and aggressive weeds. These pests must be managed proactively with a solid plan of attack and several stages of inspection and action.
No matter what the marketing says, no type of plant or tree offers a zero-maintenance policy. Every plant has a selection of pests, although almost every plant can be grown well with the proper balance and approach.
The EPA suggests using a program of Integrated Pest Management, combining the most efficient methods of pest control while maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the disk of damage to surrounding property. Commercial growers use these programs effectively, and with a little research and experimentation, homeowners can get control of pests and protect their landscaping.
Achieve your outdoor living dreams by avoiding these top five landscaping mistakes. From watering and lawn care to hardscaping, fertilizer use and pest control, homeowners need to have a game plan and follow it well to maintain a lush, attractive yard all season long.
Posted by: diana