Keyman Lawn, Tree and Pest delivers expert service with a focus on long-term results and environmental responsibility.
At Keyman Lawn, Tree & Pest, we’ve been helping homeowners grow greener, healthier lawns since 1996 throughout Madison, Wisconsin. We specialize in eco-conscious, results-driven lawn care tailored to Wisconsin’s climate. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions our customers ask about lawn maintenance, fertilization, aeration, weed control, and more.
What services does Keyman Lawn, Tree & Pest provide?
We are a full-service lawn care provider offering:
We tailor every service to your specific lawn conditions—no high-pressure sales, no one-size-fits-all programs.
How is Keyman different from other lawn care companies?
We focus on long-term lawn health and environmentally responsible practices:
What’s the best mowing height in the summer?
Keep your grass mowed to a height of 3 inches during hot summer months. This protects the grass crowns, reduces water loss, and helps shade out weeds.
Why is it important to mow with sharp blades?
Sharp mower blades make clean cuts, which reduce stress on your grass. Dull blades tear the grass, leading to brown edges, moisture loss, and vulnerability to disease.
How much water does my lawn need each week?
Your lawn should receive approximately 1 to 2 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Water deeply and infrequently—2 to 3 times per week in early morning hours—for healthier root systems.
When should I fertilize my lawn in Wisconsin?
Avoid fertilizing during peak summer heat. Instead, apply a light feeding or wait until late August or early fall, when cooler temperatures support strong growth. Spring and fall are the best times for more aggressive fertilization.
What kind of fertilizers does Keyman use?
We use granular fertilizers that release nutrients slowly and consistently over time. This improves lawn health and avoids the growth spikes and burn risks associated with fast-release products.
Should I test my soil before applying lime or fertilizer?
Yes. We recommend soil testing every 2 to 3 years. Ideal pH for Wisconsin turfgrass is between 6.2 and 7.0. A soil test helps us determine whether your lawn needs lime, sulfur, or nutrient adjustments.
What is lawn aeration and why is it important?
Aeration is the process of pulling small plugs of soil from the lawn to relieve compaction. It allows water, oxygen, and nutrients to reach grass roots more effectively. This promotes deeper root growth and stronger turf.
When is the best time to aerate my lawn?
The spring and fall are the ideal times for aeration in Wisconsin. A fall aeration follows the stress of summer heat and can give the grass time to recover and build strong roots before winter.
How do I prevent and control weeds like crabgrass and clover?
Why doesn’t Keyman apply blanket weed control?
We believe in targeted applications. Spot-treating weeds reduces chemical exposure and protects surrounding grass and soil microbes. This is more effective long-term and better for the environment.
How can I tell if my lawn has fungus?
Common signs include:
If more than 30% of your lawn is affected, we may recommend applying a fungicide. Contact us for a professional evaluation.
How do I protect my lawn and trees from Japanese beetles?
Japanese beetles are most active in midsummer and can severely damage trees like lindens, birches, and fruit trees. We offer targeted insecticide applications that stop beetle infestations and protect your landscape.
What if I notice large patches of brown grass?
Brown patches can be caused by:
We’ll help you identify the cause and recommend the right treatment, whether it’s reseeding, pest control, or adjusting your watering habits.
What should I focus on in the summer?
What’s the best lawn care strategy for fall?
