Your Guide to Summer Lawn Care in New Jersey
New Jersey is a beautiful state, and we take pride keeping it that way. At Lawn Tech, we create and maintain beautiful lawns all across Hunterdon, Somerset, Morris and Warren Counties in New Jersey, and we do that by addressing the individual needs of each lawn. It is no secret that summer in New Jersey can be hot and be devastating to your lawn. That is why we wanted to give some tips on how to keep your lawn healthy and green while also saving you time and energy.
Advice from the Pros
Proper Mowing
Recommended mowing height is between 3 ½ to 4 inches. The higher the mowing height, the more water is retained in the grass plant. Remove only one-third of the grass blade each time you mow. Keep mower blades sharp (sharpen once a month). A dull blade shreds the grass instead of cutting it, making it susceptible to disease problems. DO NOT mow when the lawn is dormant from heat stress!!! This will break the grass plant creating permanent damage to the lawn. DO NOT mow during the hottest part of the day or when the lawn is wet.
Watering
The lawn should receive roughly 1 to 1 ½ inches of water per week (even during the hottest summer months). Whether you water with a hose or an irrigation system, a deep watering, less frequently is ideal. Place a coffee can or Tupperware out on the lawn to determine how long it takes to collect 1 to 1 ½ inches of water. It is recommended that you water the lawn 2 to 3 times per week. Of course, if it rains, you can skip a watering. Light watering that just dampens the grass can create disease problems. Very early morning watering is ideal (between 4:00 – 9:00 am). This gives the grass time during the day to dry out.
Control Weeds
Broadleaf weeds and grassy weeds can be tricky. The best way to handle weeds is to use pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. But it’s very important to make sure you’re using the right herbicides at the correct rate on your lawn so you don’t create any damage. Never use any type of “Grass Killer” or total vegetation killer on your lawn.
Clippings
When you mow your lawn, the clippings you create can be redistributed. Don’t collect the clippings when you mow unless the are heavy and are clumping on top of lawn. Let them stay on your lawn so they can breakdown and help supply more nutrients to the soil.
Insects and Disease
The correct application and diagnosis will help prevent insects and disease from coming in and ruining your lawn. It’s best to speak to a lawn care professional so you know which formula is right for your lawn.
Fertilizer
Timely applications of balanced fertilizers throughout the season help strengthen the root system of the lawn enabling the grass to withstand anything mother nature throws at it.
Lawn Care is Hard Work
A lot of time and energy has to be invested in a lawn in order for it to receive the proper care. Here at Lawn Tech, our professional lawn care services can save you time and energy, but also provide you peace of mind. You’ll be able to spend more time enjoying your yard with friends and family rather than every waking moment caring for your lawn.