How do beginners start lawn care?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.The beginning of lawn care starts with selecting the right grass for your area. Cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky Bluegrass, are best suited for northern zones, while warm-season varieties like Bermuda are more suitable for hot summers in southern regions. First, prioritize testing your soil using a simple kit from home, or consider using a service for a more reliable result. This informs you of your soil's pH and nutrient requirements, helping you shape your approach to lawn care.
Soil Testing
- Collect samples from 4-6 inches deep across lawn areas
- Identify pH levels adjusting with lime if below 6.0
- Detect nutrient deficiencies for targeted fertilizing
Grass Selection
- Match grass type to USDA hardiness zone and sun exposure
- Consider drought tolerance like Buffalo grass in dry regions
- Factor maintenance commitment level for your lifestyle
Instead of daily watering with a sprinkler, water once a week, deeply. Determine the amount as one inch of water, measured with a rain gauge. This habit encourages the roots to go deep into the ground, giving your grass more drought resistance. Water early in the morning when evaporation is at its lowest. I learned this lesson after losing my grass by watering shallowly in my first summer.
If you're mowing with cool-season grasses, set the mower blades high at a height of 3-4 inches. Don't cut more than one-third of the blade length. By mulching clippings, your lawn naturally returns nitrogen. Sharpen blades every month or so to reduce tearing and possible disease. Taking the time to sharpen mower blades was a simple habit that significantly improved my lawn's health in just a few short months.
Use slow-release formulas for Spring and Fall fertilization only. Fertilize according to soil test results, avoiding fertilization during the summer months. To improve root growth in compacted areas, aerate every year. Follow these essential practices before making new changes to your environmental care. I wanted to get in there and fix watering and mowing, and saw drastic improvements in just a few weeks.
Sustainable lawn care takes time. Your efforts will be reduced as your roots become stronger. Get started now on soil testing and turf selection. This foundation leads to long-lasting results for your yard and the environment. Small, consistent steps will lead you to flourishing lawns.
Read the full article: How to Care for Lawn: Beginner's Guide
