Contact Keyman Lawn, Tree and Pest today for a free core aeration estimate and expert advice on maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn!
Achieving a thick, vibrant lawn doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these essential lawn care practices from the experts at Keyman Lawn, Tree and Pest:
Optimal Height:
For most grass types in Waunakee, mowing at 2-3 inches is ideal.
Drought Resistance:
Taller grass provides crucial protection against dry spells common in Wisconsin summers.
Moisture Retention:
It shades the soil, helping to conserve valuable moisture.
Natural Defense:
Taller blades create a natural barrier against weeds and insect infestations.
Deeper Roots:
Encourage a stronger, healthier root system by mowing at the right height.
Mowing Frequency:
Aim to mow every 6-8 days during the peak growing season.
Best Time to Mow:
Mow during the cooler parts of the day (early morning or late evening) to minimize stress on your lawn.
Sharp Blades Matter:
Always use a sharp mower blade for a clean cut, preventing tearing and potential damage.
End-of-Season Cut:
The final mow of the year should be at around 1-1/2 inches to help prevent winter disease and vole damage.
Water Needs:
Generally, lawns in Waunakee need 1-2 inches of water per week, including rainfall.
Soil Moisture:
Aim for moisture penetration down to a depth of 4-5 inches when watering.
Deep Watering is Key:
During extended dry periods, water deeply once per week rather than frequent shallow watering.
Fertilizer and Recovery:
Lawns treated with slow-release granular fertilizers tend to recover faster after drought.
Dormancy:
Without adequate water, your lawn will go dormant and turn brown. Recovery can be slow once rain returns.
Early Detection:
A dormant lawn can make it harder to spot early signs of insect or disease issues.
Benefits of Mulching:
Use a mulching mower to return grass clippings to the lawn.
Natural Fertilizer:
Mulched clippings release water and nitrogen back into the soil.
Moisture Conservation:
Mulching helps reduce evaporation from the soil surface.
Healthy Thatch Level:
A thatch layer of ½ inch or less is normal and can be beneficial.
Problems with Excessive Thatch:
Thatch layers over ½ inch can significantly increase the risk of insect and disease infestations.
Impeded Growth:
Thick thatch prevents essential air, water, and nutrients from reaching the root zone, leading to a less healthy lawn.
Annual Aeration:
We recommend yearly core aeration to break up thatch, reduce soil compaction, and promote deeper root growth.
Spongy Feel:
Lawns with excessive thatch often feel soft or “spongy” when you walk on them.
