![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/vI5P4UK5F84BcIDNhjLqQ6YAtkz4edCDUKLCUqtxAx9HusAf638NFDYCWcejX9XyhgWiEm8_fgDbGREno7GdUyu_5C3xtuk5oRkfclVXuBmyxx4fh-SJBUiBUTGwC0SPSkpNSC2iKFvhFzSQpg\")
Anytime you face a pest infestation, it’s a stressful situation. But when you have pests that can damage your property, that’s a whole new level of stress. Carpenter ants chew through wood in homes and yards across the country. Thankfully, we’ve got some advice on how to get rid of carpenter ants indoors and outdoors. […]
\n","content":"\nAnytime you face a pest infestation, it’s a stressful situation. But when you have pests that can damage your property, that’s a whole new level of stress. Carpenter ants chew through wood in homes and yards across the country. Thankfully, we’ve got some advice on how to get rid of carpenter ants indoors and outdoors.
\n\n\n\nIn this article we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nCarpenter ants (Camponotus) make their homes in trees and logs, easily chewing through wet wood to create their tunnels and nests. These ants come in different sizes and colors, but in North America, they mostly appear black or reddish brown.
\n\n\n\nCarpenter ants are typically between one-quarter inch and five-eighths of an inch in length, with elbowed antennae. Some carpenter ants may develop wings while the nest is swarming.
\n\n\n\nLike most ants, carpenter ants give each other directions to food and shelter by leaving behind a pheromone trail. It’s how they sneak into your kitchen or bathroom in vast numbers.
\n\n\n\nThankfully, we have some helpful tips for controlling carpenter ants in the home. Infestation sizes may vary, but following these steps in the suggested order mimics professional treatments and can save you the cost of hiring an exterminator.
\n\n\n\nThe first step to ending your carpenter ant problem is to locate the nest. Follow the ant trail or evidence of damage until you reach the nest.
\n\n\n\nSometimes these nests are difficult to find. Try thumping the wood where you suspect damage. If it sounds hollow, you’re in the right place. Thumping around the nest can excite the ants, and panicked ants may appear.
\n\n\n\nOnce you find the nest (or locate high ant activity) apply bait traps or bait gel nearby. Spread your bait around sinks, appliances, baseboards, and bathroom fixtures. The nest is usually near a source of water. Consider using a duster for a quick and even application of fine granular baits.
\n\n\n\nBaits eliminate ants by lacing their food with insecticide. When the ant takes the bait back to share it with the colony, that insecticide spreads amongst the other ants until it dethrones the queen.
\n\n\n\nNext, apply an aerosol foam to cracks, holes, and crevices. Insecticidal foams expand, making them the ideal choice for wall voids, cracks, and crevices.
\n\n\n\nAerosol foams like FiPro spread pesticides from ant to ant, infecting the entire colony. When ants come in contact with these foams, their nervous systems are affected, resulting in death.
\n\n\n\nYou can use insecticidal dust to pump pesticides into hard-to-reach places like behind sinks and inside hollow doors.
\n\n\n\nAnother option is to use diatomaceous earth (D.E.) to solve your carpenter ant problem. Just sprinkle this pesticide along the pheromone trail or near suspected entry points to your home.
\n\n\n\nDiatomaceous earth eradicates pests dehydrating their bodies. This dehydration occurs either by consumption or the proximity to D.E.
\n\n\n\nYou can use boric acid in the same manner. Boric acid takes longer to kill insects than D.E., but both are effective means of carpenter ant control. Diatomaceous earth can be used outdoors as well.
\n\n\n\nAre carpenter ants infesting the wood frame around your compost pile or chewing away at your wood deck? Similar to indoor infestations, you’ll need to find the nest and treat it with pesticides.
\n\n\n\nPerimeter treatments are advisable whether your infestation is indoors or outside. Use a non-repellent insecticide to spray wall voids, crevices, windows, eaves, and potential entry points. This will help ensure the outside infestation doesn’t migrate indoors.
\n\n\n\nSpray the insecticides in a sweeping motion 1 to 3 feet up the wall and 1 to 3 feet into the yard to create a strong barrier around your home.
\n\n\n\nAlways read and follow the instructions listed on the product label, as guidelines may vary from product to product.
\n\n\n\nRepellents are a helpful tool to rid your lawn of carpenter ants. Carpenter ants are sensitive to strong odors, and the odors will disrupt the pheromone trails they use to direct other ants.
\n\n\n\nScents like peppermint (oil), lemon, vinegar, and chili powder can keep carpenter ants away.
\n\n\n\nAdd your chosen repellant to a spray bottle and dilute it with water. Aim for a 1:1 ratio. Spray your natural repellent solution around any potential entrances to your home or in areas where you see carpenter ant activity.
\n\n\n\nJust like you would indoors, scout your yard for signs of carpenter ant activity and set up bait traps.
\n\n\n\nAnother way to rid your lawn of carpenter ants is with homemade bait. Start by mixing one-thirds sugar with two-thirds boric acid. Next, place your mixture in a small dish or bottle cap near ant trails or the nest.
\n\n\n\nBoric acid is widely available at grocery stores, pharmacies, and supercenters.
\n\n\n\nAphids and carpenter ants have a symbiotic relationship. The aphids create a food source for the ants (honeydew), and in return, the carpenter ants protect the aphids from predators. If your lawn is teeming with aphids, there’s likely a carpenter ant infestation nearby.
\n\n\n\nLuckily, aphids can be eradicated with pesticides, soapy water, neem oil, or petroleum-based horticultural oils. Once the aphid population is reduced, the ant colony will likely search for a new source of food elsewhere.
\n\n\n\nThe best way to prevent pests is to remove their food source and tidy your home and yard.
\n\n\n\nA carpenter ant infestation can happen anywhere. These ants need damp wood to make a home and a consistent food source.
\n\n\n\nCommon causes of a carpenter ant infestation include:
\n\n\n\nA carpenter ant sighting in your home doesn’t necessarily mean you have an infestation. It could just be a worker ant scouting out a new location for a nest. However, if you see winged carpenter ants, that means a colony is swarming and might be trying to move into your area.
\n\n\n\nSigns of an infestation in your home include:
\n\n\n\nBoth termites and carpenter ants can damage wood, leaving evidence of frass (wood shavings). Despite looking so similar and causing similar damage, they require significantly different treatment, which is why proper identification is so important. Here are some helpful tips to tell them apart:
\n\n\n\n| Carpenter Ants | Termites |
| Carpenter ants are discrete in their nest building, often unbeknownst to homeowners. | Depending on the species, termites typically cause damage out in the open. Termites also construct mud tubes that are often visible outside of the nest. |
| Carpenter ant bodies are pinched at the neck and waist. | Termite bodies have a similar thickness throughout. |
| Carpenter ants have six long legs. | Termites have six short legs. |
| Carpenter ants have elbowed antennae. | Termites have straight antennae. |
| Carpenter ants have two pairs of wings with the front wings much larger than the back wings. The wings also have fewer veins than termite wings. | Termites have two pairs of wings of equal size with many veins. |
Carpenter ants likely entered your home through cracks and crevices. They can travel across tree limbs and wires and even chew through wood to enter your home.
\n\n\n\nMonitor points of entry such as any place wires enter your home. Check your baseboards and window sills, and keep shrubs and tree limbs away from your home.
\n\n\n\nThe good news is it can take years for carpenter ants to cause notable damage, unlike termites, whose damage becomes evident in a few months.
\n\n\n\nPest infestations can be overwhelming, so there’s no shame in hiring a professional exterminator. If your carpenter ant infestation is in a difficult-to-reach location, or pest control isn’t your forte, hire a pro for the job.
Pests like carpenter ants don’t like a manicured lawn. They prefer tall grass to hide from predators. Connect with a local lawn care professional who can keep your lawn tidy and ward off outdoor pests.
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Gallice / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
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\n","content":"\nLandscape Architects and others in the field of landscape design often use the terms “softscape” and “hardscape” to distinguish between plants (soft) and rock or soil work and all the other “hard” elements of landscaping. A simple definition of “hardscape” is anything in the landscape that is not plantings, soils, or earth works.
\n\n\n\nAt first thought, it might seem counterintuitive to think of ‘hard’scaping as a wanted element in an environment designers often take great pains to keep natural and soft. So, why would this seemingly contradictory intrusion into the world of soft and floral be a critical part of any landscape design?
\n\n\n\nHardscaping provides many added benefits beyond what plant and soil materials can accomplish on their own. Here are just a few of those reasons:
\n\n\n\nHardscaping can be thought of as the bones, or framework, of a garden. It could be sleek flagstone patios, pebble mosaics, brick or rustic gravel walkways; perhaps a uniquely shaped boulder placed as a focal point in the garden or near a building to highlight architectural features. Natural stone, retaining walls, benches, seats, and sculptural landscape features, create the immovable structure through which designers (or handy diy homeowners) can easily weave in combinations of trees, plants, and shrubs into the garden tapestry.\t
\n\n\n\nJust as any good landscape designer should draw plant choices from the natural surrounding landscape, hardscape selection should also relate to the native environment as well as the style of house. For example, a colonial or Georgian house would benefit from the addition of brick or cut stone to add formality. A farmhouse in the countryside would combine well with fieldstone walls and paths of flagstone or flat river stones set in gravel. A Craftsman-style house in the city might call for a pattern of square and rectangular stones, and walls of cut or ashlar stone, or brick.
\n\n\n\nArcheticulally speaking, a good hardscape plan can help you divide the landscape into a collection of “rooms” or sequence of gardens. This is a timeless method of design as it provides separate spaces for different activities and a sense of surprise and thrill of discovery in moving from ‘room to room’. Stone walls and hedges act as room dividers, and steps and paths act as transitions between these rooms, as well as the necessary means of moving between them.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/PjLwfGpF64k02uPCOeQV1swJX_fW93HGpyXz5gVRb3MrDevpvdLtAfkdak97rmwql0_onwcMl8cRMUvhIEnEGtcdlXZ1Tl8agxeqN1FCzziGcZSTA_j5_waIvQWSGm8a99tRAJh9pvElObm4jA\")
How a patio or terrace will be used in part should dictate your choice of paving material. Flat stones with mortared joints or sand-set brick are preferable for areas to close into the house, entries, and higher traffic areas. Irregular, dry-laid stones, crushed rock or packed decomposed granite are great for garden paths and casual areas. Dining areas or a seating terrace can be on stone, gravel or crushed rock, or wooden decking, depending in part on the furniture chosen for that use.
\n\n\n\nBesides needing to harmonious with the colors found in the landscape plantings and architectural features, the color of your hardscape elements can play an important role. Light colored stone may help to brighten a shady corner but could also create glare in a sunnier spot. Dark stone materials might absorb too much heat for nearby planting materials.
\n\n\n\nThe level of permeability a material has may matter more in some locations than others. A lava rock boulder, with its open honeycomb-like surface, would collect every fallen leaf and flower blossom if it were placed below a flowering ornamental tree. This might not be a bad thing, depending on what aesthetic you are going for or what level of garden maintenance you are willing to put into your landscape.
\n\n\n\nMuch like the porosity of stone materials, the finish can greatly affect the look, feel, and functionality of an outdoor area. Rough cut or chopped limestone blocks offer a rustic, natural feel while the same stone with a saw cut finished edge can transform a wall face or column top to a modern, sleek reveal. Additionally, when dealing with patio or walkway hardscape choices, consider how slick the stone finish will become during periods of precipitation or with a layer of snow or ice.
\n\n\n\nPaths need to be stable, easy to walk on, and preferably look like they belong. Again, a sense of fitting in with the natural landscape is important. Gravel, crushed rock and decomposed granite paths should ideally be edged, either with metal edging, wood timbers, or smaller brick or stone pieces. Dry-set paths of flagstone should use thicker stones 2” – 6”. Stone steps need to be set in concrete for stability, unless they are fairly massive (5-6” thick).
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Lnn5Z38LXNcMGHS4Eczmdvp9L_d985SC9C4g9ZCQTJ9uChaNFckL-0k0fRv8fI2YnXpZYMngKqMm8lKJA-kvjW_D8kXS2LOVdwidZ0zXbe1nlXADqvdcbWooXFSSUqryOPhPi2tzwZayHAsMJQ\")
The use of large, natural stones or boulders as pure design elements in the garden can help lift an ordinary planting plant to a new level of visual interest. Enormous granite boulders flecked with sparkly quartz, limestone or sandstone outcroppings that mimic those found in nature, large half-buried mossy fieldstones, or even a special grouping of uniquely shaped beach stones you found on your last vacation can help add a truly one of a kind feel to your landscape and make them “pop” with unusual interest.
\n\n\n\nSo, if you’re designing a new garden, or looking to rehabilitate a portion of one already in existence, think of the hardscape components just as carefully as you consider what trees, shrubs, and plants you want to put where. In the end, you’ll have a more integrated, harmonious design, less maintenance, and a more interesting garden!
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/PZEdM3YTIs88s5BNsjKaFNlBC_00OT-5jOLe-MmTDcMOL8n20xfpgJPPJ8Om3dqfEG81ZyZmPz_w5NMby2-cACKhHG3VhR6S9kBskkdlEN8txf4_GREewQG1Oax9HhfG56V0Yu_yW3susT-1sw\")
While the reasons to add stone and hardscape elements to your landscape design might be numerous and easy to define, setting a price to this addition is not as clear. The cost of stone varies considerably depending on its weight, smoothness or texture, style, and thickness. Another variable is the process of installation, or how much labor will be required to complete the installation and how easily accessible is the final location of the stone or brick. Also, using stone sourced near a quarry will be more economical (not to mention contextually relevant to your natural surroundings). This means if you live in an area naturally rich in stone, like Texas, then getting limestone will be easier on the budget compared to shipping in a Canadian granite.
\n\n\n\nAll of those variables aside, the average cost to install a flagstone patio will range somewhere from $15 to $30 per square foot. Natural boulders are usually sold by the pound or ton depending on how big they are. Be sure to account for heavy equipment needed to deliver and set these elements. River rock or other small stone aggregate is sold by the cubic yard (1).
\n\n\n\nIf this all seems overwhelming, do not be discouraged. In the world of landscape design, pricing and product availability is often changing. The best solution is to work with a local landscape architect that knows the most sound solutions for your specific climate, native plantings, and natural resources.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/OFnLC5KZjapS6M2mXMtD4cBe6rAhCuWZVy6AnZ5f03wuHI4nKAX79ZbJvZwjZ-p3SfsGX4VzUerOtQxn1SBTmP_RapHwrSFkfmbzmqIMKzPWciVqC1p1CriR1RYLb_VHUh0GdRNHzASUGkU6TQ\")
Stone connects the garden to the land, since stone is literally of the earth. It is a natural material that complements plants, lasts forever, and is intrinsically beautiful. Flagstone terraces, high walls combining large, vertical granite stones with small fieldstones, low traditional dry-laid walls, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, fountains and waterfalls, rock paths and walkways—all woven together create a wonderful weft for the warp of landscape of plants, and work to further enhance natural elements such as wooden pergolas, woven branch fences and antique ornaments or placed artistic objects.
\n\n\n\n1. http://paverscostguide.com
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: Flickr // Redi-Rock International
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\n","content":"\nHave you ever considered hydroseeding your yard to grow a new lawn? This seeding method is more expensive than traditional seeding, but it’s more cost-effective than laying sod. Most homeowners pay 8 to 20 cents per square foot for hydroseeding services.
\n\n\n\nAlso called hydraulic mulch seeding, hydroseeding works by spraying a slurry mixture of seeds, water, fertilizer, and mulch; sometimes, it also has tackifiers (binding agents), lawn-friendly green dyes, and soil amendments. This mixture is applied to your yard with a machine called a hydroseeder.
\n\n\n| Average Cost Range | $0.08 – $0.20 per sq. ft. |
| Low-End | $90 total |
| High-End | $1,000 total |
Most homeowners across the country pay an average of 8 cents to 20 cents per square foot to get their lawns hydroseeded. Depending on your lawn size, that could come out to as little as $90 or as much as $1,000 – or even more, if we’re talking about a huge property.
\n\n\n\nThese prices include the hydroseeding slurry, hydroseeding equipment, and labor costs. There are other factors that can influence the cost of hydroseeding aside from these, which we’ll cover later in the article.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe biggest cost factor influencing how much you’ll pay for professional hydroseeding is the size of the area to be hydroseeded. Many hydroseeding companies charge for their services by square footage. You can expect a higher price tag if your lawn is quite large.
\n\n\n\n| Lawn Size | Cost of Hydroseeding |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $90 – $200 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $160 – $400 |
| 3,000 sq. ft. | $240 – $600 |
| 4,000 sq. ft. | $320 – $800 |
| 5,000 sq. ft. | $400 – $1,000 |
If the prices above are alarming you as someone with acres of land, there’s some good news. While it’s still more expensive the more land you need hydroseeded, many hydroseeding companies offer discounts when hydroseeding by the acre.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"hydroseeded](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/84f6c9af-3c98-423b-98eb-fb3b0783d485.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sue Thompson / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhile lawn size is the biggest cost factor when calculating the price of hydroseeding services, it’s not the only factor. Your yard’s condition, the type of grass, and the type of equipment used can all influence the cost of hydroseeding.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIs your lawn on a slope? Typically, the steeper the slope of the yard, the higher the hydroseeding cost. Your sloped yard might need more slurry — up to twice as much — and it might need some added ingredients like tackifiers, too.
\n\n\n\nYou might also pay more if your yard is bumpy or uneven, as it’s more difficult to work with. In that case, you might need to have your yard professionally re-graded, which can add quite a bit to your hydroseeding costs.
\n\n\n\nLastly, if your yard’s soil quality is poor, you’ll most likely need to pay more to add soil amendments like lime to improve your soil so the seeds will grow successfully into a new lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHomeowners should always choose a grass type that matches their area’s climate. Typically, this means cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue up North and warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia down South. Some grass seeds and seed mixes are more expensive than others, increasing the cost of the hydroseeding slurry.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnother factor that can drive up the cost is the type of equipment the lawn care pro will use to hydroseed your lawn. There are many types of hydroseeding equipment, such as hand-held sprayers, hydraulic pumps, and mechanical rotors. Landscapers that use specialized hydroseeding machines typically charge more for their services.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHydroseeding is only one method of adding grass to your lawn. How does it compare to laying sod and traditional seeding in terms of cost?
\n\n\n\n| Hydroseeding | $0.08 to $0.20 per sq. ft. |
| Sod | $0.87 to $1.76 per sq. ft. |
| Seeding | $0.09 to $0.17 per sq. ft. |
Each service has its own pros and cons. For example, seeding is typically the cheapest, but it’s the most tedious and takes the longest time for the lawn to be fully established. Sod gives you a beautiful lawn instantly, but it’s very expensive. Hydroseeding balances cost and convenience with a slightly shorter (but not instant) wait time for established grass.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Hydroseeding-of-Lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: BanksPhotos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nAt $240 to $600 for a 3,000 sq. ft. lawn, it’s typically cheaper to hire a pro to hydroseed your lawn than to do it yourself. Chances are that the average homeowner doesn’t have the necessary equipment or knowledge for DIY hydroseeding.
\n\n\n\nTo DIY hydroseed, you’d need a hydroseeder, which can cost thousands of dollars to buy. You can rent or make your own, but renting costs more than $200 per day, and homemade hydroseeders aren’t as reliable.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll also need to calculate the right amount of slurry for your lawn. Using too little or too much slurry will most likely end in disaster. That’s assuming you used a good ratio of the hydroseed slurry components, too. You can avoid the hassle of figuring out all these logistics by hiring a pro to hydroseed your lawn instead.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHere are some of the advantages of hydroseeding:
\n\n\n\nSeed germination is typically faster with hydroseeded lawns. Expect to see new grass within a week.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHydroseeding is usually performed in spring or fall; summer can work, but you’ll need a lot more water to keep your new, green lawn moist. However, since you’re growing grass from seed, it’s better to hydroseed during the growing season of your chosen grass type(s).
\n\n\n\nA light rain shouldn’t pose a threat to your slurry, especially if it includes a tackifier. Heavy rainfall might be a bit more concerning, but your hydroseed should be fine for the most part.
\n\n\n\nIf you see what seems to be washed away slurry after rainfall, don’t be too alarmed. The slurry may have just been pressed deeper into the ground by the rain.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile it’s not perfect, hydroseeding is quite a good option to seed your lawn. It’s faster and more convenient than traditional seeding but not as expensive as sod, even when working with large areas. If you’re ready to grow the lawn of your dreams, then why not hire a pro to hydroseed your lawn for you?
Connect with a lawn care pro near you through Wikilawn today so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your weekends without the back-breaking work of planting and maintaining your new hydroseed lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: BanksPhotos / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"How Much Does Hydroseeding Cost?","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/1789c/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/107df/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/293e9/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/f2cbb/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/1789c/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/c26c2/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/1dd6e/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/67b76/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/8df11/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/98a65/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/1dd6e/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/ddc5b9a3460ce2c1591f5bf2db104cf0/3cc96/Hydroseeding-of-a-lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How Much Does Hydroseeding Cost? | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want to grow a new lawn without breaking the bank? Check out how much hydroseeding costs to see if it’s a viable seeding option for your yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"7ad4a3c8-8bbd-5521-bdeb-7e479ce66c55","slug":"how-to-get-rid-of-mushrooms-in-your-yard","path":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-mushrooms-in-your-yard/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Mel Childs","id":"5e563fe7-34e1-5dc2-bc00-a1e777e5dfd5","path":"/author/melisha-childslawnstarter-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8fb37d81bb775d323e0028ec06cb650f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"July 30th, 2022","excerpt":"Unlike delicious mushrooms in your marinara sauce, the fungi growing on your lawn could make your kids and pets sick. They could also trigger an allergic reaction. So how do you get rid of mushrooms in your yard? You can pull them up, use natural methods, or resort to chemicals. This guide explores ways to […]
\n","content":"\nUnlike delicious mushrooms in your marinara sauce, the fungi growing on your lawn could make your kids and pets sick. They could also trigger an allergic reaction. So how do you get rid of mushrooms in your yard?
\n\n\n\nYou can pull them up, use natural methods, or resort to chemicals. This guide explores ways to eliminate mushrooms and keep them from coming back.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\nYou can avoid using harmful chemicals on your lawn with these natural methods.
\n\n\n\nYou can hand pick all the mushrooms and toss them in the trash. It’s important to wear gloves to avoid an allergic reaction, and it’s crucial that you dispose of them immediately. Put them in a plastic bag, as even carrying them across the yard to your garbage can spread the mushroom spores onto other parts of the lawn.
\n\n\n\nVinegar works after you’ve removed the mushrooms by hand. We’re not talking about the vinegar in your pantry, but rather a concentrated horticultural vinegar (a good alternative to glyphosate) that you will have to dilute.
\n\n\n\nMix one part white vinegar with four parts water in a spray bottle and coat the mushrooms. Wear gloves when you spray this solution onto the area, because vinegar can burn your skin.
\n\n\n\nBaking soda won’t burn your hands, but you must dilute it so it won’t burn your grass. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a gallon of water and pour lightly over the mushrooms and in the area where the lawn fungi may be living.
\n\n\n\n![\"Chemical](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_screenshot_12.jpg\")
When natural methods don’t do the trick, you may have to use stronger chemical treatments to keep the mushrooms out of your yard.
\n\n\n\nFungicides stamp out mushrooms at the source. They don’t kill mushrooms but rather eliminate the fungus. Most fungicides such as Lustre or Spectrum work by destroying fungal cell membranes to stop them from producing.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll still have to hand pick the mushrooms before you apply the fungicide to the area, but they will keep the mushrooms from coming back. Therefore, it’s a good idea to remove the mushrooms first. You may have to use the fungicide several times to get the desired results.
\n\n\n\nThe same nitrogen fertilizer you use on your lawn is great for preventing mushrooms. It doesn’t kill the fungus, but it speeds up organic decomposition. Therefore, mushrooms won’t have an opportunity to grow on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nSpray a solution of dish soap and water to disrupt the lifecycle of the fungus that’s growing underneath the mushrooms you removed.
\n\n\n\nRemoving the mushrooms from your yard is only half the battle. The fungus that causes the mushrooms is still present in the soil. Here are seven ways to minimize the fungus and keep new mushrooms from growing.
\n\n\n\n![\"Mushroom's](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/rsz_frank-eiffert-_zsw5aeb4ee-unsplash.jpg\")
Like plants, mushrooms are the “flowers” or fruiting bodies that result from the hyphae or fungus in your lawn’s soil. If you don’t remove the mushrooms immediately, they will reproduce by spreading spores around your yard via air or pests.
\n\n\n\nSome common reasons you are starting to see more mushrooms growing in your yard?
\n\n\n\nDon’t automatically assume mushrooms in your yard are a threat. There are very few poisonous mushrooms that can grow on your property, but even the non-toxic mushrooms are unsightly and a magnet for dogs who like to dig.
\n\n\n\nThey can be. The destroying angel and the autumn skullcap are two fatal types of mushrooms that could grow on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe destroying angel mushroom is white with a white stalk and white gills that could turn green or grayish as the mushroom matures. The autumn skullcap has a yellow-brown tint on its cap and brownish gills.
\n\n\n\nNo, unless you’ve purchased mushroom plants from the store and are growing them in your vegetable garden. Unless you’re an expert at identifying wild mushrooms, it’s best to toss the mushrooms you find in your yard.
\n\n\n\nYes. Mushrooms are a sure sign your soil is healthy and has the nutrients for other plants, trees, and flowers. Some plants will actually benefit from the fungus in the soil.
\n\n\n\nDon’t have the time or find it gross to remove the mushrooms from your yard? We can find a lawn care pro near you to remove them and keep the fungus at bay. They can also mow, weed, edge, and dethatch to keep the mushrooms from coming back.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Pixabay | Michal Jarmoluk
\n","title":"How to Get Rid of Mushrooms in Your Yard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/1789c/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/107df/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.jpg 320w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/293e9/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.jpg 500w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/f2cbb/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.jpg 800w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/1789c/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.jpg 960w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/c26c2/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/1dd6e/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/67b76/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.webp 320w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/8df11/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.webp 500w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/98a65/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.webp 800w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/1dd6e/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.webp 960w,\n/static/e0421b908bd33afd56f2b8a9e75e9c6c/3cc96/rsz_mushrooms-g66ac431a3_1920.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Get Rid of Mushrooms in Your Yard | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Unsightly and sometimes dangerous, we’ll tell you how to get rid of mushrooms in your yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"75e3c7b8-add3-5089-a595-32f9d21fd618","slug":"how-to-install-a-lawn-sprinkler-system","path":"/blog/how-to-install-a-lawn-sprinkler-system/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Alison is a Midwesterner through and through, and loves to spend her time baking and reading. Always at home in the dirt, as a kid, Alison raised a vegetable garden with her dad, and flower gardens with her mom.","name":"Alison Hoover","id":"2d4efd75-80f4-58b0-b715-bcefffb32f2f","path":"/author/alison-hoover/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/54d52d00b8587655742aec8164f06427?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 10th, 2022","excerpt":"Learning how to install an in-ground lawn sprinkler system is nearly as easy as turning on the water. Home irrigation system kits now come with all the necessary components so you can install a multi-zone system in just two or three days. Expect to spend around $500 for each zone, depending on the features you […]
\n","content":"\nLearning how to install an in-ground lawn sprinkler system is nearly as easy as turning on the water. Home irrigation system kits now come with all the necessary components so you can install a multi-zone system in just two or three days.
\n\n\n\nExpect to spend around $500 for each zone, depending on the features you choose. Most yards will require 2 or 3 zones for complete coverage. A residential control system will cost between $175 and $200. So you can easily install a 2-zone system for about $1,500.
\n\n\n\nHere we’ll break down the 9-step process to help you install a lawn sprinkler system.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Prep](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_296-12530440930zpi.jpg\")
![\"Tech.](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_tech-sgt-mike-deangelo-a-facility-manager-from-the-129th-transportation-flight-63af96-1024.jpg\")
Most systems connect to an exterior water supply, much like connecting a garden hose to the valve at the side of the house. You may also be able to use a well or other water source. This can drastically cut down on the cost of running your irrigation system.
\n\n\n\nA programmable timer allows you to water your lawn regularly, applying the right amount of water at the right times. A watering schedule also keeps your lawn eco-friendly by conserving water, which helps save money.
\n\n\n\nYou can find the gallons per minute (GPM) average from your city, but for a more accurate measurement, you’ll want to do it yourself. Understanding the water pressure flowing through your system tells you how far each sprinkler head will reach and the amount of time you’ll need to run each zone.
\n\n\n\nAttach a pressure gauge to the outside spigot to measure the flow rate in pounds per square inch (PSI). For an accurate reading, all of the other faucets on your property should be turned off.
\n\n\n\nMost homes have a PSI between 40 and 80 PSI. Sprinkler system kits typically require between 30 and 50 PSI. Read the directions carefully to find the proper amount of water pressure for your system.
\n\n\n\nMany different in-ground lawn sprinkler systems are available, including smart systems that allow you to control everything from your phone via Wi-Fi. Research your options and choose the best fit for your yard, water pressure, climate, and lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nIf you have large areas to water, you may need to connect multiple zones. This isn’t any more complicated than just one zone. Consider an automatic sprinkler system that rotates through each zone regularly.
\n\n\n\nMultiple zones will help you care for areas that are shaded, get a lot of sun, are prone to puddling, or have recently been fertilized.
\n\n\n\nIn areas where it freezes in winter, you need to drain the system each autumn. This prevents freeze damage to the pipes, sprinklers, and valves. Winterizing can be a DIY job, but it might be best to hire a professional if this is your first in-ground sprinkler system.
\n\n\n\n1. What kind of piping should I use?
\n\n\n\nMost people use PVC pipes, but polyethylene is another option. Polyethylene pipes are flexible and well suited to colder climates with frequent freezes.
\n\n\n\n2. How do I know what size piping to use?
\n\n\n\nThe system’s piping must match the supply line. You can wrap a piece of string around the supply line to measure its size.
\n\n\n\n3. Do I need backflow prevention?
\n\n\n\nSome municipalities require backflow preventers, but it’s a good idea in all areas. Backflow prevention protects the main water supply from chemicals that may enter the system from your yard.
\n\n\n\n4. What do I do if a sprinkler head isn’t working?
\n\n\n\nFirst, check to see if the sprinkler head is clogged. If it’s free of debris, you might need to replace it. The good news is that it is pretty simple to replace a malfunctioning head.
\n\n\n\n5. Will a pop-up system work for my flower beds?
\n\n\n\nYes, but you should consider adding a drip irrigation system around flower beds. This will provide a more consistent and gentle watering system than an in-ground sprinkler system.
\n\n\n\n
If installing a lawn sprinkler system is a bit over your head, we can help you find a landscaping professional.
Main photo credit: Brenda Stuart | Wikilawn
\n","title":"How to Install an In-Ground Lawn Sprinkler System","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1789c/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg","srcSet":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/107df/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 320w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/293e9/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 500w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/f2cbb/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 800w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1789c/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 960w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/c26c2/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1dd6e/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/67b76/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 320w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/8df11/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 500w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/98a65/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 800w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/1dd6e/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 960w,\n/static/66fad2ee2583ca0b9a20cb7e1b5f3930/3cc96/rsz_installing_sprinkler_heads.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Install an In-Ground Lawn Sprinkler System | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Installing an in-ground sprinkler system is easy. We’ll detail 9 steps to show you how to install a lawn sprinkler system to keep your lawn healthy."}}},{"node":{"id":"cbcbc672-7fb2-51a1-a118-834cceeaaa1b","slug":"how-to-use-salt-kill-weeds","path":"/blog/how-to-use-salt-kill-weeds/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Surely there is another way to kill stubborn weeds than using dangerous chemicals or expensive organic herbicides, right? Right. This article discusses how to use salt to kill weeds. It turns out you can get rid of weeds in a way that does not pose a health risk to you and your loved ones. And […]
\n","content":"\nSurely there is another way to kill stubborn weeds than using dangerous chemicals or expensive organic herbicides, right? Right. This article discusses how to use salt to kill weeds. It turns out you can get rid of weeds in a way that does not pose a health risk to you and your loved ones. And it’s right in your kitchen cabinet!
\n\n\n\nKeep reading to learn how to kill weeds with salt instead of toxic chemicals like Roundup.
\n\n\nWho knew sodium chloride, aka regular ole table salt, could be so useful in the yard? Even if all you have is the salt you use to season your food, you can use it to eliminate weeds.
\n\n\n\nIf you live in a location where it gets icy regularly, you may also keep rock salt, the salt placed on the ground to eat away ice in winter, in the house. It can also be used to kill weeds.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"table](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/table-salt-spilled-out-on-a-table.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sebalos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhat you need:
\n\n\n\nSolutions more concentrated with salt can disrupt the soil composition and hurt other plants you want to keep. So, a 1-to-2 salt-to-water mixture is best in a flower bed or on your lawn. You can start with a 1:3 salt-to-water ratio and increase the salt content daily until it starts killing the weeds.
\n\n\n\nIn areas where soil health preservation is not important, like cracks in the driveway, a 2:1 or 3:1 salt-to-water ratio can be used to kill the weeds more quickly and with fewer applications.
\n\n\n\nAdd a little white vinegar and liquid dish soap to make the salt solution more effective.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"rock](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/rock-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: BWFolsom / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWhat you need:
\n\n\n\nThere are a couple of ways to apply rock salt as a post-emergent weed killer.
\n\n\n\nEasy No-Mix Rock Salt Weed Killer: Sprinkle a little rock salt on the ground at the base of the weed. This is a fast method for controlling weeds sprouting in driveways and walkways and between pavers. The pesky plants will die within about a week and a half. Rock salt will also kill grass and other plants and stop anything from growing where it has been sprinkled, giving it a pre-emergent herbicidal quality. Rain will eventually dissipate the effects.
\n\n\n\nRock Salt Spray Recipe: Add 1 cup of rock salt to 1 gallon of hot water. Mix until the salt is dissolved. Put the combination into a spray bottle. This solution is a good way to kill weeds in grass and flower beds because you can spray it directly on weeds and keep it from coming into contact with the plants you want to keep.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/using-spray-to-kill-a-weed-in-mulch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: killerb10 / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nOnce you’ve mixed your salt spray, spray it directly onto the weeds you want to kill. Be careful not to get too much salt water on your grass or ornamental plants. After five days, respray the weeds. Wait another five days and reapply. If there is torrential rain, it could dilute the salt, and you may have to reapply it sooner than five days.
\n\n\n\nYou don’t want to saturate your soil with salt water. It can harm the soil and nearby plants. So, after spraying weeds with salt water, thoroughly water the roots of any nearby vegetation to dilute any salt solution that made contact with grass or ornamentals.
\n\n\n\nOverall, a salt spray is best for small-scale weed problems.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe type of salt used is important. It must be rock salt or sodium chloride to kill weeds. Table salt that is iodized or non-iodized will work. Avoid using sea salt and magnesium sulfate, which is also known as Epsom salt.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSalt is so effective at killing weeds that it can kill other plants and disrupt the soil composition so that nothing grows for a few years. As previously stated, this prevention of regrowth gives salt a pre-emergent herbicidal quality.
\n\n\n\nSalt contains acetic acid, which pulls out moisture. The way salt kills weeds is by dehydrating them and disrupting the plant cells’ internal water balance. Weeds absorb this natural weed killer more when water is added to the salt. Salt burns the foliage and prevents the plant from getting sufficient water.
\n\n\n\nWhite vinegar also has acetic acid, so adding a little of it to your salt solution will increase the moisture extraction effects.
\n\n\n\nAdding a little liquid dish soap to your solution can also make the salt more effective because dish soap is a surfactant, meaning it reduces the water’s surface tension, enabling the plant to absorb more of the solution.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"salt](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/salt-being-poured-from-someones-fingers.jpg\")
Photo Credit: taffpix / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSalt is not toxic like chemical herbicides. However, applying salt as a weed killer does come with advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look at some:
\n\n\n\nPros:
\n\n\n\n✓ Does not cause health risks that herbicidal chemicals containing ingredients like 2,4-D and glyphosate are linked to, such as endocrine disruption and cancer
✓ Cheaper weed killer than commercial herbicides
✓ Children and pets do not have to stay off the grass to avoid toxic exposure
✓ Effectively kills smaller weeds
✓ Can be used near edible plants without exposing them to dangerous chemicals
Cons:
\n\n\n\n✗ Large quantities can change the pH level of the soil and make it sterile
✗ Can kill nearby plants and grass
✗ May not work on salt-tolerant plants
✗ Not as effective on large plants
✗ Should be used for weed killing on a small scale
Salt is not the only homemade weed killer that can effectively replace toxic chemical herbicides.
\n\n\n\nBoiling water has some of the same benefits and disadvantages as a salt solution. Surrounding plants can be damaged if boiling water splashes on them. On the other hand, boiling water will not disturb the chemical composition of the soil and damage it or prevent future growth.
\n\n\n\nVinegar solutions usually include adding salt, but the amount of salt is less. The most effective vinegar mixtures are made with vinegar that is 20% acetic acid, also known as herbicidal vinegar. These weed killers, like salt, can change the soil composition.
\n\n\n\nUltimately, the decision of which homemade weed-killing method to use is up to you. To salt or not to salt? That is the question. All of these non-toxic herbicides are safer for pets and humans than their commercial herbicide counterparts.
\n\n\n\nIt typically takes about 10 days for a salt and water solution to kill existing weeds.
Practicing good lawn care management regularly will help prevent weeds in the first place. It is difficult for unwanted plants to sprout in a well-kept lawn or garden. Here are some tips for preventing weeds in your landscape:
● Use mulch in gardens and on the lawn. Mulch stops weed growth. Apply organic mulch to decrease weed germination. Leaving grass clippings on the lawn after mowing is a natural way to fertilize the grass and suppress weeds. However, leaving clippings when you have lawn weeds will spread the seeds.
● Check for weeds regularly so you can eliminate them when they are young and few.
● Plant grass seed adapted to your area, which will thrive in your climate and more easily outcompete local weeds.
● Mow, water, and fertilize the grass as recommended for your grass type. See recommendations for cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses in our guides.
● Treat the lawn for diseases and insects to keep the grass healthy and weed-resistant.
● Pull up weeds with a tool or by hand and remove the taproot to prevent regrowth.
● Plant ground cover. These ornamentals spread quickly, providing a dense carpet that smothers and suppresses weeds.
Pulling weeds by hand or with a tool is an eco-friendly method that doesn’t affect the soil or other plants. It is easier to manage weeds this way when there are only a few of them and they are young. Wet the soil to remove weeds more easily. Ensure you have removed the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
Having a way to manage weeds that is cheaper and more convenient than commercial herbicides is nice. Having a way to manage weeds that is safer for your family, fur babies, and the environment is priceless. Salt is both!
\n\n\n\n
But if you need a break from DIY landscape maintenance, there is a way you can have your cake and eat it, too. Enjoy a beautiful, thriving yard and some leisure time by connecting with qualified lawn care professionals in your area to do all the work while you chill.
Main Photo Credit: ac_bnphotos / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"How to Use Salt to Kill Weeds","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/1789c/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/107df/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/293e9/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/f2cbb/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/1789c/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/c26c2/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/1dd6e/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/67b76/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.webp 320w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/8df11/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.webp 500w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/98a65/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.webp 800w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/1dd6e/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.webp 960w,\n/static/da0b1bdd6613a5156fd8504883834f67/3cc96/Salt-poured-ona-table-and-the-word-salt-written-in-the-salt-pile-1-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Use Salt to Kill Weeds | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Did you know you have an ingredient in your kitchen that can kill weeds? Learn how to use salt to kill weeds instead of dangerous herbicides."}}},{"node":{"id":"3516d946-dc36-5353-80f2-afa1b0cd82b8","slug":"pros-and-cons-of-clover-lawns","path":"/blog/pros-and-cons-of-clover-lawns/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as \"half-feral but mostly harmless\", Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.","name":"Raven Wisdom","id":"4fb83156-96f1-58f1-8074-4a6c5c50eaaa","path":"/author/raven-wisdom/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a2813f63a6af9d07a7a5bb212b5645db?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 17th, 2022","excerpt":"Think clover is just another pesky weed? People are rediscovering clover as a low-maintenance, environmentally-friendly addition to their lawns. Check out the pros and cons of a clover lawn to see if it’s a good fit for you. Pros of a Clover Lawn A lawn of only clover, or a grass and clover mix, has […]
\n","content":"\nThink clover is just another pesky weed? People are rediscovering clover as a low-maintenance, environmentally-friendly addition to their lawns. Check out the pros and cons of a clover lawn to see if it’s a good fit for you.
\n\n\n\nA lawn of only clover, or a grass and clover mix, has at least nine advantages over one with only turfgrass:
\n\n\n\nAlthough clover is a fantastic option for many homeowners in the U.S., it might not be the ideal choice for you. There are at least five drawbacks to clover lawns:
\n\n\n\nClover is a legume from the pea family that originated in Europe and arrived in North America in the late 1600s. Early settlers commonly used clover in their lawns until the 1950s, when turfgrass became the popular choice.
\n\n\n\nThe term “clover” refers to a group of around 300 plants in the genus Trifolium. You’ll see three varieties of clover commonly used as lawns in the United States:
\n\n\n\n![\"white](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_trifolium-repens-g5288fbabc_1280.jpg\")
Photo credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_clover-gd937f9480_1280.jpg\")
Photo credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Strawberry](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_trifoliumfragiferum2-1.jpg\")
Photo credit: Christian Fischer / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSome homeowners consider clover an unsightly weed, but before World War II, clover was a desired component of the seed mixes used on the finest lawns.
\n\n\n\nSo what happened to clover lawns? Chemical corporations promoted broadleaf herbicides as essential in the 1950s. Weed killers like 2,4-D, which also destroys chickweed and dandelions, wiped out the clover.
\n\n\n\nChemical makers identified clover as a weed, and buyers preferred the neat appearance of turfgrass over clover. So seed producers stopped marketing clover in their blends.
\n\n\n\nConsider clover if you’re looking for sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives to a turfgrass lawn. Review the pros and cons of clover above (or summarized below) to decide if it’s right for you.
\n\n\n\nKeep it: Clover helps your lawn grow healthier and more pest-resistant while using less fertilizer. It breaks up compacted soil and requires less frequent mowing. It is durable against pet urine and attracts pollinators like honeybees and other insects. (This last one is a downside if you’re allergic).
\n\n\n\nGet rid of it: Although clover can withstand periods of drought, prolonged dry spells will prevent it from spreading enough to cover a lawn. It is intrusive by nature, and in some shaded areas, it will grow, but the clover flowers will not bloom.
\n\n\n\nYes. Mow the lawn closely and remove any thatch before introducing clover as a grass alternative. This will ensure the seeds fall to the soil’s surface.
\n\n\n\nFour weeks is the average time it takes for clover seeds to mature after pollination. After you’ve seeded the clover in your yard, water it every day until it sprouts, and then every 2-3 weeks.
\n\n\n\nEarly spring or late summer into early fall are the best times to plant clover. It also works well for frost seeding just before the first heavy snow.
\n\n\n\nYes. Mow the clover low to prevent it from flowering. It’s the flowers that attract the bees and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nWhether you opt for a clover lawn or you want to get rid of the clover in your yard, we can help you find a lawn care professional to reseed and weed your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMain photo credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-4.0
\n","title":"Pros and Cons of Clover Lawns","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/1789c/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/107df/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.jpg 320w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/293e9/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.jpg 500w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/f2cbb/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.jpg 800w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/1789c/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.jpg 960w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/c26c2/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/1dd6e/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/67b76/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.webp 320w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/8df11/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.webp 500w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/98a65/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.webp 800w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/1dd6e/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.webp 960w,\n/static/f9fada756d3f7f0452c1162ff6d3c587/3cc96/rsz_a_large_patch_of_clover_in_a_lawn_along_virginia.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Pros and Cons of Clover Lawns | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"People are rediscovering clover as a beneficial addition to their lawns. Check out the pros and cons of clover lawns to see if it's a good fit for you."}}},{"node":{"id":"6aa75b14-1aa1-5449-a8ee-9083c092565c","slug":"cincinnati-ohio-lawn-care-lawn-mowing-guide","path":"/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati-ohio-lawn-care-lawn-mowing-guide/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"cd94a504-1dfc-52f0-ae16-ea162e4c1f6a","name":"Cincinnati","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cincinnati/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"August 2nd, 2022","excerpt":"Your lawn care in Cincinnati should be more than an afterthought. The grass, trees, and flower beds create the frame for your picture-perfect home. That’s why you need this lawn care and mowing guide for Cincinnati. In this article we’ll look at: The 4 most popular grass types in Cincinnati Lawn mowing tips Lawn maintenance […]
\n","content":"\nYour lawn care in Cincinnati should be more than an afterthought. The grass, trees, and flower beds create the frame for your picture-perfect home. That’s why you need this lawn care and mowing guide for Cincinnati.
\n\n\n\nIn this article we’ll look at:
\n\n\n\nHow you care for your lawn depends on which grass type you have. Choosing the right grass type is the first step.
\n\n\n\n![\"Kentucky](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_pasted_image_0.jpg\")
Given our proximity to the Bluegrass State, it should come as no surprise that Kentucky bluegrass is the most common turf used for Cincinnati lawns. Don’t let its name fool you. Bluegrass is actually an eye-catching shade of green, but in the spring, the bluish-purple buds tint the landscape blue.
\n\n\n\nAs a cold-season grass, Kentucky bluegrass holds up well to winters here when we can see as much as 14 inches of snow. It’s also more resistant than other grasses to disease. If you’re planting a new lawn, keep in mind bluegrass takes one to three months to establish itself, so it’s best to plant it in the spring or fall. We recommend mowing this grass to a height of 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"Fine](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_pasted_image_0_1.jpg\")
Another cold-season grass, fine fescue is a favorite for those of you who love walking barefoot on the lawn. This narrow-leaved turf works well by itself or when blended with other types such as Kentucky bluegrass. It does best when planted in shady areas where it will need little maintenance. It doesn’t grow very fast, so it only needs mowing every nine days at a height of about 3.5 inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/grass-growth-plant-lawn-meadow-grass.jpg\")
Got kids and pets? Perennial ryegrass makes lawn care in Cincinnati easy.. your yard. As one of the toughest sods, it can stand up to heavy foot traffic and hot and cold weather. Like Kentucky bluegrass and fescues, it continues to grow in poorly drained soil. It’s best to keep this grass shorter, 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bentgrass \"](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_pasted_image_0_2.jpg\")
Bentgrass is the most high-quality and expensive grass type you can plant. It’s used in golf courses and bowling greens and stands up well to foot traffic. But it requires a lot of maintenance during the peak growing season. Bentgrass prefers sunny areas but tolerates cooler temperatures. This grass type should be mowed to about an inch and mowed a couple of times per week during peak growing season.
\n\n\n\nMowing your lawn isn’t as simple as turning on the mower and pushing it over the grass. Mowing at the right time of day and the right amount are essential for a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\nCutting your grass too short leaves it vulnerable to pests and lawn diseases. Most turfs need a weekly mow until late fall, when the growth slows down or stops. Consider varying the pattern and direction each time you mow. Otherwise, your grass blades will lean in one direction, making your lawn look unbalanced. After mowing, leave the clippings behind. They will decompose and fertilize your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"Keep](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/pasted-image-0-3-1024x576.png\")
Dull mower blades will tear the grass instead of cutting it. As a result, your lawn will turn brown. With sharp mower blades, you only need to pass over your lawn once instead of several times to get the job done. Most hardware stores can sharpen them for you, or you can do it yourself in less than an hour. Just make sure you disconnect the spark plugs first.
\n\n\n\nYou can adjust the cutting height by raising or lowering the mower’s wheel. Look on the side of your lawnmower and find a knob or lever that adjusts the height for your grass type.
\n\n\n\nNo matter how much time to dedicate to lawn care in Cincinnati, your yard will start to look tired and worn out after a summer of use. By raking up all debris and thatch and distributing seed, you can replenish some of those bare patches over the fall and winter. A thinning lawn is an invitation for weeds and pests. You can spread seed over the smaller areas by hand or rent a seed spreader for the entire lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe heavy foot traffic over the summer has likely compacted your soil. Poking tiny holes in the lawn, or aerating, gives the grass a chance to take in more moisture and nutrients. It also raises the lawn’s resistance to diseases and pests. Do this in the fall, just before you add fertilizer. Fertilizing the lawn at the end of September will help it make it through the cold winter. Before deciding which fertilizer to use, find out what your lawn needs. You can get a home soil test kit at your local home improvement store. If you prefer, you can ask the extension office at The Ohio State University, to recommend a lab to test it for you.
\n\n\n\nIn spite of all the rain that blesses Cincinnati, your lawn may need a little more moisture before it goes dormant over the winter. Keep your sprinkler ready until the first frost. A few good soakings will give the roots of the grass the strength it needs to make it through the winter. You also want to make sure the new seeds and fertilizer work their way into the soil. If you want to maximize your outdoor water usage and learn more about local watering restrictions, we recommend visiting the City of Cincinnati’s site.
\n\n\n\n1. What happens if I cut my lawn too short?
\n\n\n\nMowing a lawn too short or scalping it, will weaken your lawn. It robs the grass of nutrients and invites weeds to invade.
\n\n\n\n2. How often should I sharpen my lawn mower blades?
\n\n\n\nTwice per season or after 25 hours of use. You may need to sharpen them more often if you run over sticks and rocks since these obstacles dull the blades.
\n\n\n\n3. When should I plant new grass seed?
\n\n\n\nEarly autumn is the best time to plant a new lawn or to overseed your existing lawn since temperatures have cooled down, and the new seed won’t have to compete with weeds. You want to give the new seeds plenty of time to germinate before the first frost.
\n\n\n\nDon’t have the time or energy for proper lawn care? We can help you find a lawn care professional to handle all your lawn and landscaping needs.
\n\n\n\nMaintaining a healthy, green lawn is a top concern for many homeowners, and fertilization is key to achieving this. Like any living thing, your grass requires nutrients to grow and thrive. Fertilizers are specifically developed to replenish these nutrients. But it’s important to know when and how to fertilize your lawn to make the most […]
\n","content":"\nMaintaining a healthy, green lawn is a top concern for many homeowners, and fertilization is key to achieving this. Like any living thing, your grass requires nutrients to grow and thrive. Fertilizers are specifically developed to replenish these nutrients. But it’s important to know when and how to fertilize your lawn to make the most of it.
\n\n\n![\"Fertilizers](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_14457202926_6d52aae30a_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jerry Norbury / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to fertilizing your lawn, timing is everything. The answer to the “when” question depends on the following:
\n\n\n\nBut there is one general rule: Don’t feed the lawn during periods of dormancy – only fertilize your grass at the time of year when it grows actively.
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of grasses: warm-season grasses and cool-season grasses, and both have different growth and fertilization requirements. You have cool-season grass if you live in the northern third of the country and warm-season grass if you live in the southern third. If you live in the middle of the US, you may have either or both types of grass.
\n\n\n\nBut what is the right time to fertilize either of them? Here is the answer:
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass grow actively in cooler months. Usually, the grass grows most actively in fall, so the best time to fertilize your lawn is once in early fall and once in late fall, at least 6 weeks before the expected first frost. During these times, the grass is actively developing and can best use the fertilizer’s nutrients.
\n\n\n\nYou can also apply fertilizer to your lawn in early spring because it’s the time when the grass greens up after winter dormancy and has a brief period of growth before the heat of summer sets in. It is the optimal time if you want to apply a third application of fertilizer to your lawn in addition to those done in fall.
\n\n\n![\"Cool](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cool-Season-Warm-Season-Transition-Zone-1024x709.jpg\")
Illustration by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, warm-season grasses, such as Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, or Zoysiagrass, have totally different fertilization times. Because they actively grow in the warmer months, late spring and early summer is usually the best time to apply fertilizer. This helps the grass to receive nutrients during its active development phase while remaining lush throughout the summer.
\n\n\n\nIf you want a fall fertilizer application, early fall, at least 6-8 weeks before the first frost, is also suitable for your warm-season lawn.
\n\n\n\nYou can read our guide to the ideal lawn fertilizer schedule to learn more about when to fertilize your lawn.
\n\n\n\nGenerally, apply fertilizer to your lawn two to four times per year. The frequency might vary depending on the type of grass, the makeup of your soil, the local climate of your area, and the type of fertilizer used. Slow-release fertilizers remain in the soil for 6-8 weeks, so you should wait at least 6 weeks between applications. Immediate-release fertilizers need to be applied more often to remain effective, about every 4-6 weeks.
\n\n\n\nThe most common frequency recommendation for lawn fertilizer application is:
\n\n\n\nOnce you’re sure you’ve got the timing right, follow these steps to fertilize your lawn in the best and most efficient way possible.
\n\n\n\n![\"Soil](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Soil-Testing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nBefore applying fertilizer to your lawn, you should do a few things to ensure the best results and minimize any potential harm to your grass or the environment. Preparing your lawn ahead of time will set up the foundation for successful fertilization.
\n\n\n\nSoil tests are like bloodwork for your soil. They describe the type of soil, the level of plant nutrients, and the soil pH, among other things. Get your soil tested by sending a sample to your local county Cooperative Extension office or buy an at-home test kit for quicker but less detailed results.
\n\n\n\nBased on the soil test results, amend your soil to make it adaptable for the turfgrass and fertilizer. Adjust the soil’s pH so that it’s between 6.5 to 7 (ideal for most grass types) by adding lime for lawns to increase the pH or sulfur to decrease the pH.
\n\n\n\nRemove any lawn weeds, moss, or excessive thatch growth in your lawn before fertilizing. Obstacles like these can prevent fertilizer from reaching the soil, which is where it needs to be for your grass to absorb its nutrients.
\n\n\n\nIdeally, you should mow the grass slightly lower than its typical maintenance height before fertilizing. Shorter grass permits the fertilizer to reach the soil more effectively and reduces the possibility of the fertilizer sitting on top of tall blades and causing burn or uneven distribution.
\n\n\n\nWater your lawn well for at least three to four days before fertilizing it. Moist soil improves nitrogen uptake and reduces the risk of fertilizer burn. Overwatering, on the other hand, can cause the fertilizer to seep away or become less effective.
\n\n\n\n![\"hand-held](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_114848000106_62e914cb15_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jerry Norbury / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nIt is essential to apply lawn fertilizer carefully to ensure nutrients reach the plant roots and deliver maximum benefits.
\n\n\n\nFirst, choose the right tool according to your lawn’s area and fertilizer type. There are various kinds of fertilizer spreaders, including:
\n\n\n\nFill your chosen tool with fertilizer on a non-grassy, hard surface like a driveway or sidewalk. This keeps spills or excess fertilizer from reaching the grass before you begin, which again reduces the risk of fertilizer burn.
\n\n\n\nStart Applying the Fertilizer: Begin walking across your lawn at a slow, steady pace, pushing the spreader consistently. If you’re using a sprayer, spray a wide arc in front of you, from side to side, as you walk. Then turn around and walk the other way in a line parallel to your first pass. Continue walking back and forth across the lawn in parallel lines until you’ve covered the whole area.
\n\n\n\nTo achieve thorough coverage and eliminate missed spots, overlap each pass slightly. If you’re using a granular fertilizer, check the grass for any prominent clumps or heaps of granules once you’ve finished applying it. Use a sweep or rake to disperse these clumps to ensure even dispersion.
\n\n\n\nNote: After each usage, properly clean your spreader or sprayer. Rinse it with water to remove any residual fertilizer, which can damage the equipment if not removed.
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/rsz_150456484_cef7d54b8f_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Shaylor / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0
\n\n\n\nWatering your lawn after fertilizing is essential for activating the nutrients in the fertilizer and ensuring optimum absorption by the grass’s roots. It is best to water your grass immediately after fertilizing it. This reduces the risk of burn from concentrated nutrients lingering on the grass blades.
\n\n\n\nUse an in-ground sprinkler system or a hose with a sprinkler attachment for even coverage. To avoid overwatering certain areas and underwatering others, make sure the water is distributed evenly across the lawn.
\n\n\n\nNote: If you use liquid fertilizer, wait two to four hours for the fertilizer to dry, and then water your lawn. Don’t water immediately after applying liquid fertilizer because it will wash the fertilizer away before it’s had time to soak into the soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"broom](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/broom-for-sweeping-sidewalk-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: undefined undefined / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIn addition to cleaning your spreader or sprayer, it’s important to clean excess fertilizer off impervious surfaces near your grass, such as a driveway or patio. For granular fertilizers, sweep off any granules that may have landed on sidewalks or driveways to prevent runoff into nearby bodies of water. Fertilizer runoff can cause water pollution and harmful algae blooms.
\n\n\n\nBe especially diligent about sweeping up excess fertilizer if you have curious pets or small children in your family who might try to play with or even eat the tiny granules.
\n\n\n\nChoosing the right fertilizer for your lawn is critical. First of all, check your soil’s nutrient requirements through your soil test. Then select a fertilizer with a suitable nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus ratio according to your soil’s needs.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to finding a lawn fertilizer with the right nutrient blend, you’ll need to decide what type of fertilizer is best for your lawn. You’ll have to choose between slow-release and immediate-release fertilizers, synthetic and organic fertilizers, and liquid and granular fertilizers.
\n\n\n\nTo learn more about each of these options and figure out which one is best for you, see our guide on How to Choose Lawn Fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nYes, organic fertilizers are an excellent choice for lawn care. They come from natural sources and provide slow-release nutrients that improve soil health and microbial activity. Organic fertilizers are less harmful to the environment and contribute towards eco-friendly lawn care.
\n\n\n\nLook for organic fertilizers designed exclusively for lawns in our guide to organic lawn fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nIt’s critical to act quickly if you mistakenly over-fertilize. Thoroughly water the lawn to help dilute and flush out extra nitrogen and other nutrients. Mow as little as possible until the grass recovers, and consider skipping the next scheduled fertilization to let the grass rebalance. If extensive damage develops, such as the grass turning brown, your grass may be dead. Seek the advice of a lawn care specialist to figure out the best path forward.
\n\n\n\nIt’s best to avoid fertilizing during periods of excessive heat or drought. High heat and dry weather can cause stress on the grass, and fertilization during this time may worsen the stress.
\n\n\n\nRegular fertilization not only improves the general health and appearance of your lawn, but it also increases its resistance to external stressors like severe temperatures and foot traffic. It’s an essential technique contributing to a beautiful, healthy lawn you can enjoy all year. For help keeping up with a regular fertilization schedule, connect with a local lawn care pro on WikiLawn today.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: SVproduction / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"When and How To Fertilize Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1789c/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/107df/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/293e9/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/f2cbb/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1789c/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/c26c2/beautiful-green-lawn-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1dd6e/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/67b76/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 320w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/8df11/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 500w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/98a65/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 800w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/1dd6e/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 960w,\n/static/07637c07f2782bb7524931b2cb73d1cd/3cc96/beautiful-green-lawn-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"When and How To Fertilize Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"In this guide, learn when and how to fertilize your lawn the right way so you can have a lush, beautiful lawn all year-round."}}},{"node":{"id":"dc9d69b9-4c83-5b51-a60d-e92c73f52fc7","slug":"when-to-overseed-a-lawn","path":"/blog/when-to-overseed-a-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Alison is a Midwesterner through and through, and loves to spend her time baking and reading. Always at home in the dirt, as a kid, Alison raised a vegetable garden with her dad, and flower gardens with her mom.","name":"Alison Hoover","id":"2d4efd75-80f4-58b0-b715-bcefffb32f2f","path":"/author/alison-hoover/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/54d52d00b8587655742aec8164f06427?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"Overseeding is most effective when your lawn is growing most actively. Deciding when to overseed your lawn depends on whether your existing grass is a warm or cool-season type. Experts recommend overseeding most lawns in the late summer or early fall, at least six weeks before the first frost. The rules change for when to […]
\n","content":"\nOverseeding is most effective when your lawn is growing most actively. Deciding when to overseed your lawn depends on whether your existing grass is a warm or cool-season type.
\n\n\n\nExperts recommend overseeding most lawns in the late summer or early fall, at least six weeks before the first frost. The rules change for when to overseed a lawn in southern areas where grass grows more actively in the spring.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nPopular in the northern states, cool-season grasses grow most actively in spring and fall. These grasses should be overseeded in late summer or early fall. This way the seeds will have time to germinate before your lawn comes out of dormancy in the spring. Most weeds have stopped growing by fall, so your new grass seed will have less competition.
\n\n\n\nIdeal conditions for growing cool-season grasses are when the soil is between 50 and 65 degrees. You can use a soil thermometer to check this out.
\n\n\n\nThere are many varieties of cool-season grasses, but the most common ones include:
\n\n\n\nAnother thing to consider when overseeding is when you expect the first frost. It’s important to overseed at least 45 days before the ground freezes so the new seeds have time to take root. Any closer to the first frost than that, and the grass seeds may die.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are most active in late spring and early summer and best for lawns in the southern United States. It’s best to overseed with warm-season grass seeds in the late spring or early summer when soil temperatures are between 70 and 90 degrees. These types of grasses prefer prolonged temperatures around 75 degrees and lie dormant during winter.
\n\n\n\nThe most popular kinds of warm-season grasses are drought-tolerant. They include:
\n\n\n\nYou may want to overseed your warm-season grass with a cool-season variety such as ryegrass. This will help your lawn stay green longer into the winter season. If this is your goal, you need to overseed in the fall, ideally when the soil temperature is between 50 and 65 degrees.
\n\n\n\nAnnual ryegrass will provide winter color in the far South, while perennial ryegrass is better suited to lawns in the middle of the country. Perennial varieties will lie dormant through the summer and return next fall. The extreme temperatures in the South are not hospitable to perennial ryegrass, so you’ll want to overseed with annual ryegrass each autumn.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll want to consider blending grass types in states near the Mason-Dixon line. Summers tend to be too warm for cool-season grasses, but winters are too cold for warm ones.
\n\n\n\nHome supply stores typically sell grass seed mixes, especially for the transition zone. You’ll find overseeding with this mixture is a great way to keep your lawn green and healthy year-round.
\n\n\n\nTransition zone grasses should be overseeded in the first few weeks of spring when the existing lawn first turns green.You want to overseed when your lawn is at its most active, but you also want to be sure you have enough time to complete the process.
\n\n\n\nMost lawns will require overseeding every couple of years, but you may want to make it an annual chore if your lawn suffers from:
\n\n\n\nYou’ll find valuable information on the seed packaging specific to each type of grass. The labels will indicate how much seed to apply per square foot, as well as other tips for attaining a healthy lawn.
\n\n\n\n1. How much grass seed should I use when overseeding?
\n\n\n\nApply 6 to 8 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet on bare soil. Using too little will leave bare spots and patches. Too much seed will force the grass to compete for water, light, and other nutrients. Read the directions on the seed package.
\n\n\n\n2. Should I mow the lawn before overseeding?
\n\n\n\nYes. Before overseeding, cut your grass shorter than usual and bag the clippings. It’s important to loosen the top layer of solid and remove any dead grass or thatch so the grass seed can easily take root and germinate.
\n\n\n\n3. Should I use a weed treatment while overseeding?
\n\n\n\nThis is a big no-no. Pre-emergents herbicides work by preventing germinating seeds from establishing roots. These products don’t know the difference between weed seeds and grass seeds. You also want to hold off on post-emergent weed treatments since they can kill young grass seed.
\n\n\n\n4. How long after overseeding will I see grass start to grow?
\n\n\n\nIt takes two to three weeks for germination to begin. With proper watering, you should see the grass sprout within four weeks. It will take about eight weeks to see a fully established lawn.
\n\n\n\n5. How soon and how often should I water the lawn after overseeding?
\n\n\n\nWater the overseeded area lightly right away, for about half an hour, to force the seed into the soil. A light spray is best so as not to wash away the grass seed. You’ll want to water two or three times a day for the first week, and then once a day for the next three weeks.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding is easy enough to do as a DIY project. But you might not want to spend your time checking soil temperatures, dethatching, and aerating. We can help you find a lawn care professional near you who will overseed your lawn and help it grow.
Main Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n","title":"When to Overseed a Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/1789c/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.jpg","srcSet":"/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/107df/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.jpg 320w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/293e9/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.jpg 500w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/f2cbb/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.jpg 800w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/1789c/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.jpg 960w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/c26c2/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/1dd6e/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/67b76/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.webp 320w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/8df11/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.webp 500w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/98a65/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.webp 800w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/1dd6e/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.webp 960w,\n/static/14a00db8eada2d05af2a1c088742cc8e/3cc96/rsz_landscape-grass-structure-lawn-sign-green-907017-pxherecom.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"When to Overseed a Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Description: Different grass types grow at different rates. We’ll look at when you should overseed your lawn with each grass type."}}},{"node":{"id":"c27b03e6-fdd2-5ff3-abe2-fe3d9cdf3f61","slug":"how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-grass","path":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Different people have different expectations and goals when it comes to lawn care products to get rid of weeds. Some prioritize getting the task done over any risks chemicals in products may cause. Others place safety over the convenience conventional lawn care products may provide. That is why we present how to get rid of […]
\n","content":"\nDifferent people have different expectations and goals when it comes to lawn care products to get rid of weeds. Some prioritize getting the task done over any risks chemicals in products may cause. Others place safety over the convenience conventional lawn care products may provide. That is why we present how to get rid of weeds in grass using traditional, synthetic herbicides and safer methods like homemade recipes and manual tips.
\n\n\n\nWith so many ways to get rid of weeds, you do not have to let them confiscate your property.
\n\n\n\nThis article will also cover weed prevention. Keep reading to discover all the options you have for weed control on your lawn.
\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/5e95d48d-7801-4974-9206-35bbdb36b571.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nWeeds are unwanted plants growing in lawns, gardens, and fields. They compete with wanted vegetation for nutrients. Like any other plant, they can be categorized by their life cycles and type. Weeds can be annuals, biennials, or perennials. These unwanted plants fall into three types: broadleaf, grassy, and grass-like.
\n\n\n\nBefore you can get rid of weeds, you have to identify what type they are so you can choose an effective control method. Not all herbicides or manual removal methods work for all weeds.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLearn a weed’s life cycle to figure out the best time to apply pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides to control that weed.
\n\n\n\nAnnual weeds live for less than a year and spread by seed. Summer annuals sprout in the spring. They grow in the summer and fall and die in the winter. Crabgrass and goosegrass are some examples. Winter annuals sprout in late summer and early fall. They die when it gets hotter out, in late spring or early summer. Some examples of winter annual weeds are chickweed and henbit.
\n\n\n\nBiennial weeds have a two-year life cycle and germinate by seed. They are not as common in lawns as annual and perennial weeds. Common burdock and wild carrot are two examples.
\n\n\n\nPerennial weeds are also spread by seed and by stolons, bulbs, and rhizomes. These weeds are harder to control than annual weeds because they keep coming back, year after year, unless you remove their entire system of growth, including roots, stolons, and rhizomes. Plantain, thistle, and dandelions are some examples.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSome chemical treatments are only effective for certain types of weeds or specific weeds within a category. So, you must be able to identify the weeds growing in your grass before you can choose a suitable herbicide.
\n\n\n\nBroadleaf weeds have broad and flat leaves that are not grass-like. Examples are perennials like thistle, plantain, chickweed, dandelions, and henbit.
\n\n\n\nGrassy weeds have blades that look like grass. Crabgrass, quackgrass, annual bluegrass, and foxtail are some common grassy weeds.
\n\n\n\nGrass-like weeds resemble grass but do not look as much like it as grassy weeds. The blades are triangular or tubular and shiny. Some examples are nutsedge, wild garlic, and wild onion.
\n\n\n\nOnce you have identified the type of weed in your yard, you can select the best organic herbicide, homemade weed killer recipe, synthetic herbicide, or manual removal method to control that specific weed.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOrganic herbicides have ingredients that are safer than the toxic chemicals found in traditional synthetic herbicides. However, you typically will not find these organic herbicides in most kitchens, like you would the options listed in the homemade weed killer section.
\n\n\n\nOrganic weed control products with the following active ingredients can be purchased from stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other home and garden suppliers.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/4a16ada4-5ea8-4f9b-8641-f6c78f02e677.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Olga Kriger / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nCorn gluten meal acts as a weed and feed product. It kills weed seeds like a pre-emergent herbicide and contains nitrogen to feed the grass.
\n\n\n\nHow to Use It: Corn gluten meal is only effective at preventing weeds and fertilizing grass when the soil is wet, so give the lawn a light spray of water after using this product unless rain is forecasted later in the day to do it for you.
\n\n\n\nApply it before weed seeds germinate – in early spring for summer annuals and early fall for winter annuals – because corn gluten meal does nothing to kill weeds that have already sprouted. The nitrogen it contains can actually promote the growth of existing weeds.
\n\n\n\nMonthly reapplication may be required for lasting control. Corn gluten meal can kill the seeds of weeds like dandelions, crabgrass, henbit, and more.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVinegar is most effective at killing weeds when the vinegar is 20% acetic acid. The vinegar in your kitchen is only around 5% acetic acid, so you will need a special product called herbicidal vinegar to kill weeds. Herbicidal vinegar is a popular active ingredient in organic post-emergent herbicides. It can kill larger weeds and perennials, but multiple treatments are required.
\n\n\n\nThe acetic acid removes moisture from the plant’s foliage, breaking it down and killing the leaves. A natural surfactant, like yucca extract, is usually included in herbicides to help the vinegar solution stick to the weeds’ leaves.
\n\n\n\nHow to Use It: Herbicidal vinegar is a non-selective herbicide, meaning it kills all plants it comes into contact with, including grass. Never apply vinegar all over your lawn unless you’re trying to kill the existing grass so you can start a new lawn from scratch. Instead, spot-treat unwanted plants by placing the solution in a spray bottle and spraying weeds directly. Many commercial herbicides with vinegar come in a ready-to-spray bottle.
\n\n\n\nWarning: Herbicidal vinegar can burn the skin and cause severe eye injuries, such as blindness. Wear protective glasses and long sleeves when applying this product.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou can also use ingredients already in your kitchen to make a homemade weed killer for your lawn. These DIY concoctions are safer for pets and humans than the chemicals in synthetic herbicides and much more affordable than organic herbicides you can buy at the store, but they may be less effective than either and may take multiple applications to produce results.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"apple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/apple-cider-vinegar-next-to-apples-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: tylim / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nVinegar solutions are a commonly used DIY weed control method. The following are mixtures you can make using regular kitchen vinegar.
\n\n\n\nWhite Vinegar Solution:
\n\n\n\n— 1 gallon of white vinegar
— 1 tablespoon of dish soap
— 1 cup of salt
Apple Cider Vinegar Solution:
\n\n\n\n— ½ gallon of apple cider vinegar
— ¼ cup of salt
— 1 teaspoon of dish soap
How to Apply: Mix the ingredients thoroughly and place the solution in a handheld spray bottle. Spray directly to weeds on a sunny day. The sun helps the acetic acid in the vinegar work.
\n\n\n\nThis non-selective DIY weed control will kill most broadleaf weeds and other plants, too, so be careful not to spray it directly on your grass. Solutions with 5% acetic acid may not kill dandelions and other plants with taproots. Use herbicidal vinegar for these types of stubborn weeds.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Sebalos / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSalt can change the pH level of the soil, make it sterile, and hurt plants, including weeds. The downside is that salt will also hurt grass and other landscape plants, so apply it only on the soil around weeds.
\n\n\n\nHow to Apply: You can start with a 3-to-1 water-to-salt ratio and increase the amount of salt daily until it kills the weeds. Learn more in our in-depth article about using salt to kill weeds.
\n\n\n\nIf preserving soil health is not a concern, apply a mixture with a 1:2 or 1:3 water-to-salt ratio. Add a small amount of liquid dish soap or white vinegar to make the weed killer stronger.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: BWFolsom / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIf you live in a location with icy winters, you may have some rock salt on hand. This is the salt that eats away the ice. You can sprinkle some directly on the weeds or make a solution.
\n\n\n\nRock Salt Solution:
\n\n\n\n— 1 cup of rock salt
— 1 gallon of hot water
How to Apply: Mix until the salt is dissolved. Pour into a spray bottle. Spray weeds directly. Respray the weeds after five days. Reapply the spray after waiting another five days. Avoid saturating the roots, as this can damage the soil and nearby plants. To protect your grass and ornamentals, water nearby vegetation after applying the salt solution to dilute it.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBoil some water and pour it onto the weeds. This option, like all DIY weed killers, will damage your grass and other surrounding plants if it makes contact.
\n\n\n\nHow to Apply: It is best to place the hot water in a vessel with a spout, like a teapot. Allow it to soak into the plant roots. However, it may not kill the roots, which can result in weed regrowth.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRubbing alcohol kills weeds by draining moisture from the leaves. It will also drain moisture from grass blades and the foliage of other plants, so be sure to spray it directly onto the weeds, and do your best to avoid overspray.
\n\n\n\nRubbing Alcohol Solution:
\n\n\n\n— 2 tablespoons of alcohol
— 1 quart of water
How to Apply: Mix the solution in a spray bottle. Spray weeds individually, covering the leaves as much as possible with the solution.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Lawn-Treatment-with-Herbicides.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bouillante / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSynthetic herbicides come as pre-emergent, post-emergent, or as weed and feed products. These herbicides come with precautions as well as do’s and don’ts to be effective and not cause damage. Here are some examples:
\n\n\n\n— Be sure to use these at the right time of year and in the right temperature range. Pre-emergents and post-emergents work at different times, and if applied at the wrong time, they won’t do much at all.
— Synthetic herbicides can injure grass if applied during the wrong stage of your lawn’s growth. For example, pre-emergent products typically should only be applied to turfgrass that has been established for at least 12 months.
— Certain types of herbicides can only be used on certain grass types. Read product labels to find out which grass types it’s safe to use each product on.
— Not all chemicals kill all weeds. Some chemicals only work on broadleaf weeds, while others only work on grassy weeds. Some are even formulated to kill specific weed types. Read the product label carefully before purchasing a herbicide to make sure what you’re getting will actually work for the weeds on your lawn.
— Applying pre-emergents too soon after overseeding the lawn can prevent the new grass seeds from germinating.
Pre-emergent products must be applied before weed seeds start germinating. These herbicides kill weed seeds, but they do not kill grown weeds. Pre-emergent herbicides are for preventing future weeds, not getting rid of existing ones.
\n\n\n\nWhen to Apply: Administer in the spring for summer annual weeds, like crabgrass and goosegrass. Apply when the soil temperature is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit or above for about 2 days or more.
\n\n\n\nFor winter annual weeds, like annual bluegrass and chickweed, apply in the early fall. The best time is when the soil temperature is approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 3 days.
\n\n\n\nA note on soil temperature: Applying pre-emergents at the right soil temperature is imperative to their success, so use a soil thermometer to get an accurate reading. A soil thermometer costs about $10 or less at a local gardening store or online.
\n\n\n\nSelective vs Non-selective: Most pre-emergent herbicides used for lawn weeds are selective herbicides, meaning they kill specific weed seeds without damaging other plants.
\n\n\n\nNon-selective herbicides, on the other hand, target all plants. To avoid eliminating wanted plants and grass, spot-treat unwanted vegetation by applying non-selective herbicides with a handheld sprayer. These herbicides will also prevent grass from growing, so do not use them when you have recently seeded the lawn or plan to seed the lawn in the near future.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPost-emergent herbicides kill weeds that are sprouting. Weeds that are young and actively growing are the most susceptible to these types of herbicides.
\n\n\n\nWhen to Apply: For perennial weeds and many types of annual weeds, the best time to apply post-emergent products is in the fall or late spring. Treat stubborn perennial weeds with deep root systems in the early spring. Apply when the soil temperature is greater than 55 degrees Fahrenheit and the air temperature is less than 85 degrees.
\n\n\n\nContact vs Systemic: Like pre-emergent chemicals, post-emergents come as selective and non-selective. However, unlike pre-emergents, post-emergents destroy plant parts, such as stems and roots. They do this in different ways.
\n\n\n\nContact-based post-emergent herbicides kill only the plant parts they come into contact with. They destroy parts above the ground, like the leaves. Completely killing weeds with contact herbicides may take many treatments, and you’ll have to manually remove the roots to prevent the weeds from coming back.
\n\n\n\nSystemic post-emergents kill the entire plant regardless of contact with specific parts. The weed absorbs the chemicals, which travel through the vegetation and attack its vascular system. The leaves, stems, and root systems are destroyed.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Seed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/seed-spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jon Rehg / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWeed and feed products are pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicides that also include lawn fertilizer. If applied at the right time, weed and feed can improve your grass and promote a thriving, green lawn at the same time as removing weeds. A healthy lawn decreases the risk of weed growth in the future.
\n\n\n\nWeed and feed is somewhat controversial because it combines herbicides and fertilizer, two types of chemicals that have different requirements for application. For example, grass needs to be fertilized at specific times to be healthy. If the timing to apply the weed control portion is not the same as the timing for the fertilizer, you can damage the grass. Do not apply weed and feed more than two times a year. Always read the label to know when to apply.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor pre-emergent, post-emergent, and weed and feed chemicals, read the labels to determine if the herbicide controls the weeds you are looking to manage, can be used on your grass type, and at what stage your grass is safe from being damaged by the chemicals.
\n\n\n\nFor weed and feeds, make sure the time of year the herbicide should be used is the same as the time your grass requires fertilization.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPulling weeds by hand or using a tool may be a little more time-consuming than other DIY methods or using synthetic chemicals. It may take more effort, too. The benefit is that manual methods will not release substances that can harm you, your loved ones, or the environment or change the soil composition.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Gardener](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/weeds.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Artur Henryk Bialosiewicz / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nThese methods are best when you have a few weeds, and they are young. Wear gloves when removing weeds manually.
\n\n\n\nHow to Pull Weeds By Hand or With a Tool: Water the area or wait until after it rains. The wet ground makes it easier to pull up roots. Dig around the weed with a pointed garden trowel or weeding tool to loosen the soil. Use your hand or tool to pull up as much of the root system as possible so the weed will not grow back.
\n\n\n\nFor some weeds, like crabgrass, only pull by hand or tool when the seed head is closed. If you pull when the head is open, the seeds will spread and replant.
\n\n\n\nFor nutsedge, pull it by hand if the plant has fewer than five leaves. If there are many of these weeds, use a dethatcher or hoe.
\n\n\n\nAs you can see, whether you are applying DIY mixtures, synthetic chemicals, or manual methods, it is important to be able to identify the types of weeds you have so that you use the best weed control solution.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis device is also called a flame weeder. It is a propane tank with a wand attached that allows you to burn weeds. The flame weeder kills leaves and stem cells but does not kill the roots. It may take multiple treatments to eliminate weeds.
\n\n\n\nObviously, since weed torches use an open flame to kill weeds, they can also harm your grass, or worse, you. Always wear protective clothing and a face covering when using a weed torch, and be very careful to keep the flame away from your grass and other plants you want to keep.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Mowing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaper Flare / License
\n\n\n\nThe best way to manage weeds is through prevention by practicing appropriate seasonal lawn care and maintenance. A dense and healthy lawn with grass at an adequate height can crowd out and prevent weed seeds from getting sufficient sun. Weeds will be less likely to sprout because they cannot get the water, nutrients, and space they need to grow.
\n\n\n\nThere are two categories of grass types: warm-season and cool-season grasses. Each type and the individual grasses within each type determine maintenance requirements, like mowing heights and the amount of fertilizer required. But here are some lawn maintenance practices that can be applied to grass in general for a weed-free lawn:
\n\n\n\nHow long does it take for a salt solution to kill weeds?
\n\n\n\nSalt usually kills weeds in about 10 days.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIs herbicidal vinegar dangerous?
\n\n\n\nVinegar containing more than 11% acetic acid can burn your skin and cause eye injuries, including blindness. Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing when using herbicidal vinegar.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre there any chemicals that can be used on both cool and warm-season grass?
\n\n\n\nProdiamine is a pre-emergent herbicide that is safe to use on most warm and cool-season grass types. The post-emergent chemicals sulfentrazone and halosulfuron are safe for most types of grass.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFortunately, you have options to get rid of weeds in grass. The goal is not only to stop weeds before they sprout or kill them after sprouting but to have a healthy lawn that outcompetes weeds. For help keeping your lawn as thick and thriving as it can be, reach out to a local lawn care pro on WikiLawn and find out how much a regular lawn maintenance plan would cost for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: SchulteProductions / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"How to Get Rid of Weeds in Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/1789c/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/107df/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.jpg 320w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/293e9/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.jpg 500w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/f2cbb/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.jpg 800w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/1789c/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.jpg 960w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/c26c2/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/1dd6e/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/67b76/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.webp 320w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/8df11/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.webp 500w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/98a65/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.webp 800w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/1dd6e/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.webp 960w,\n/static/2895b693b49a37546c989cf055d0de7a/3cc96/418f669d-6383-4ae4-8b73-754a6753b621.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Get Rid of Weeds in Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Learn how to use organic methods, homemade recipes, manual solutions, and commercial herbicides to get rid of weeds in grass."}}},{"node":{"id":"ef21a10f-8aef-5c89-be52-99e4dfd2bfa1","slug":"columbus-ohio-lawn-care-lawn-mowing-guide","path":"/lawn-care/oh/columbus/columbus-ohio-lawn-care-lawn-mowing-guide/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5eab8b19-684d-573f-929d-53dda702846c","name":"Columbus","count":9,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/columbus/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"August 8th, 2022","excerpt":"We take pride in our lawns in Columbus. The grass that covers your landscape is like a cover to a book. People will assume the inside of your home is just as pristine as your yard. That’s why this quickstart guide to lawn care in Columbus is crucial. Contents: The 4 Most Popular Grass Types […]
\n","content":"\nWe take pride in our lawns in Columbus. The grass that covers your landscape is like a cover to a book. People will assume the inside of your home is just as pristine as your yard. That’s why this quickstart guide to lawn care in Columbus is crucial.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\nSince we get more than the average amount of precipitation (more than 56 inches a year), lawn care in Columbus is relatively easy. We still need to water occasionally and mow often. How often you should mow, and water depends on the type of grass covering your landscape.
\n\n\n\n![\"tall](\"http://lawnstarter.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/tall-fescue.jpg\")
Tall fescue grass is perfect if you don’t want to spend a lot of time watering and maintaining your lawn. This variety is drought-resistant and will survive a hot, dry summer. It also holds up well during our cold winters.
\n\n\n\nIt does grow quickly and will need mowing at least once a week. It looks best when mowed between 3 and 3½ inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZJelm3O3DzG-doQdR0rekiXL7qGVKJkSrPMH5HtEnRlFQG1syvtDf97LmhStDSawKjpyNspADimLJDukiJt27dgNso9M6DtmZ149IM6dducfpnoF_YFeAlbSUpRE0mOR-BKOpiaO\")
This is the most common grass you’ll see on Columbus lawns. Kentucky bluegrass is an eye-catching shade of deep green, but in the spring, the bluish-purple buds tint the landscape blue.
\n\n\n\nAs a cold-season grass, Kentucky bluegrass holds up well to winters here. It’s long-lasting and resilient to heavy foot traffic, It’s also more resistant than other grasses to disease. If you’re planting a new lawn, keep in mind bluegrass takes one to three months to establish itself, so it’s best to plant it in the spring or fall. We recommend mowing this grass to a height of 2 ½ to 3 ½ inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vzmTOQphoueWk2oivJZRNZ0nObnaicYDQED1O7Pkx_t6faunOvLpkDV07otpxZ4I801ugNHs1nBw_yCFJeamA6ZerGu-TMWtXd8WxmfCCxEd-Q5jq8q-VQSXgoyhNnuMpHH2mtUy\")
Got kids and pets? Perennial ryegrass is perfect for your yard. As one of the toughest sods, it can stand up to heavy foot traffic and hot and cold weather. Like Kentucky bluegrass and fescues, it continues to grow in poorly drained soil. It’s best to keep this grass shorter, 1½ to 2½ inches.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_pixnio-4149-2560x1920-1.jpg\")
Buffalo grass is a North American native turf you can plant and almost forget about. It’s extremely versatile and doesn’t require a lot of attention. It’s also durable and can bounce back after a heavy snowfall and a lot of foot traffic. You should mow Buffalo grass at a height of 2½ to 3½ inches.
\n\n\n\nNever cut more than one-third of the height of your grass. If you cut too much off at once, your grass becomes vulnerable to pests and diseases. Got an overgrown lawn? Sorry: Do multiple mows, taking off one-third each time. Most turfs need a weekly mow until late fall when the growth slows down or stops. Vary the pattern and direction each time you mow. It reduces compaction of the soil and stops your grass blades from leaning in one direction, making the cut uneven. Leave the clippings in the yard as you mow. They will decompose and fertilize your lawn. If you hire a lawn service professional, make sure to remind this person.
\n\n\n\nMaintaining your lawn mower is an essential part of lawn care in Columbus. A poorly maintained mower can damage your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/rsz_11pixnio-46676-6144x4096-1.jpg\")
Dull mower blades will tear the grass instead of cutting it. Shredded grass blades are ugly — and less disease-resistant. With sharp mower blades, you cut efficiently and put less strain on your mower’s engine. Many hardware stores can sharpen them for you, or you can do it yourself in less than an hour. Just make sure you disconnect the spark plug or cord first.
\n\n\n\nYou can adjust the cutting height by raising or lowering the mower’s wheel. Look on the side of your lawnmower and find a knob or lever that adjusts the height for your grass type.
\n\n\n\nClean the blades often, so you don’t spread fungus and other lawn diseases throughout your yard. The same goes for pruning shears and other gardening tools.
\n\n\n\nOnce you put the mower away, you’ll need to make sure your lawn stays thick and green once it comes out of dormancy in the spring. You can do this by preparing it in the fall.
\n\n\n\nYour lawn will start to look tired and worn out after a summer of use. By raking up all debris and thatch and spreading fresh seed, you can replenish some of those bare patches over the fall and winter. A thinning lawn is an invitation for weeds and pests. You can spread seed over the smaller areas by hand, or rent a seed spreader for the entire lawn.
\n\n\n\nYour soil can become compacted after a summer full of heavy traffic. Poking tiny holes in the lawn, or aerating, gives the grass a chance to take in more moisture and nutrients. It also raises the lawn’s resistance to diseases and pests. Do this in the fall, just before you add fertilizer. Fertilizing the lawn at the end of September will help it make it through the cold winter. Before deciding which fertilizer to use, find out what your lawn needs. You can get a home soil test kit at your local home improvement store. The extension office at The Ohio State University can recommend labs in your area to test the soil for you.
\n\n\n\nYour lawn may need a little more moisture before it goes dormant over the winter. Keep your sprinkler ready until the first frost. A few good soakings will give the roots of the grass the strength it needs to make it through the winter. You also want to make sure the new seeds and fertilizer work their way into the soil. Check with the city or Wikilawn’s post for lawn watering restrictions in your area.
\n\n\n\nWhile you won’t be mowing in the winter, you can’t completely forget about your lawn after it goes dormant in fall. It’s crucial that you rake up the leaves, or mulch them finely with your mower. Wet leaves that pile up will suffocate your lawn and invite disease. Be sure to remove any lawn furniture from the grass and avoid walking on the lawn when it’s covered with snow or frost. This could damage the lawn when it’s dormant.
\n\n\n\n1. How do I clean my lawn mower blades?
\n\n\n\nLay the lawn mower on its side and spray down the mower casing and blade with a high-pressure hose to remove all the grass and debris. It’s crucial that you empty the gas tank and disconnect the spark plugs first.
\n\n\n\n2. Will lawn decorations harm my grass?
\n\n\n\nYes, especially if those ornamental decorations are heavy. Avoid heavy holiday decorations to save your grass from mold and tearing. As far as those garden gnomes? Look for smaller ones and place them at the edge of your yard. You may also want to move them around every so often to allow the sun and water to reach those covered spots.
\n\n\n\n3. Will long periods of snow in the winter damage my lawn?
\n\n\n\nIt can. When the snow and ice melt, your lawn becomes vulnerable to snow mold, a fungus that can affect cool-season grass types. You can prevent snow mold by avoiding walking on your snow-covered lawn and by fertilizing in the fall, before the first frost.
\n\n\n\nDon’t have the time or energy to keep your lawn looking pristine? We’ll help you find a lawn care and landscaping professional who can handle the work for you while you sit back and enjoy your yard.
\n\n\n\nMain photo credit: Rawpixel
\n","title":"Your QuickStart Guide to Lawn Care in Columbus, Ohio","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5247776365946633,"src":"/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/1789c/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/107df/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.jpg 320w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/293e9/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.jpg 500w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/f2cbb/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.jpg 800w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/1789c/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.jpg 960w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/c26c2/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/1dd6e/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/67b76/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.webp 320w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/8df11/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.webp 500w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/98a65/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.webp 800w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/1dd6e/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.webp 960w,\n/static/7cd9ef2ce2f7b7cc97bf1a5993e08a4f/3cc96/rsz_2screen_shot_2022-08-08_at_10209_pm.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Your QuickStart Guide to Lawn Care in Columbus, Ohio | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want a lawn that will turn your neighbors green with envy? Our Columbus, Ohio lawn care & mowing guide will help you keep your lawn green and lush."}}},{"node":{"id":"0d2ce4cb-3aad-5854-8f30-588b330c2cf7","slug":"how-to-level-a-lawn","path":"/blog/how-to-level-a-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an autism family. Self-described as \"half-feral but mostly harmless\", Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.","name":"Raven Wisdom","id":"4fb83156-96f1-58f1-8074-4a6c5c50eaaa","path":"/author/raven-wisdom/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a2813f63a6af9d07a7a5bb212b5645db?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"An uneven lawn causes drainage problems along with tripping hazards. We’ll show you how to level your lawn and keep it level. In this article, we’ll cover: Prepare Your Lawn for Leveling Leveling the Lawn What Causes A Lawn To Become Uneven? How To Keep A Level Lawn FAQs About Leveling Your Lawn Prepare Your […]
\n","content":"\nAn uneven lawn causes drainage problems along with tripping hazards. We’ll show you how to level your lawn and keep it level.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nYou can prepare your uneven lawn for leveling with just three easy steps. It’s crucial to level your lawn on a dry day to avoid a big muddy mess.
\n\n\n\nAssess the severity of the problem before you dig in. A few low spots are an easy fix, but if your lawn has significant damage, it will take a few extra steps to smooth it out.
\n\n\n\nFor the smaller bumps and ruts in your lawn, you can level it out with topdressing, a garden rake, a shovel, and a few DIY steps.
\n\n\n\nIf you have to cover up existing grass with the soil mixture, don’t worry. New grass growth will pop up through the soil soon, as long as you stick to the one-half-inch rule.
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: If you’ve applied the top dressing to uneven areas that didn’t have much grass growing before you started, you’ll need to overseed those spots to help them recover.
\n\n\n\nIf you have numerous low and high areas or more of the lawn needs work, you can save it with a little more effort.
\n\n\n\nIf your lawn has more craters than the moon, you’ll need to:
\n\n\n\nPro Tip: Do not use a heavy roller to lay down fresh sod or correct a bumpy lawn. A lawn roller can lead to further compaction and damage your healthy grass.
\n\n\n\nKnowing what causes your lawn to become uneven can help you fix it. Check your property for these possible issues:
\n\n\n\nAfter you’ve done all the hard work to level your lawn, you’ll want it to stay level. Proper lawn care and maintenance can prevent unnecessary damage and prevent new dips and bumps from emerging.
\n\n\n\n1. Why should I level my lawn?
\n\n\n\nAn uneven lawn will not only lower your home’s curb appeal, it can also be dangerous. Dips and bumps could cause you to trip, resulting in injuries, and poor drainage leads to water damaging your home’s foundation.
\n\n\n\n2. When is the best time to level my lawn?
\n\n\n\nMarch through September is the best time to level your lawn, when the grass is actively growing.
\n\n\n\n3. Does the topdressing help my lawn?
\n\n\n\nTopdressing mixed with compost rejuvenates and strengthens existing grass, improves the soil, and combats other problems like disease and weeds.
\n\n\n\n4. When should I avoid leveling my lawn?
\n\n\n\nAvoid leveling if your lawn is suffering from drought, pests, disease, or when the ground is frozen or waterlogged. Address these issues before you begin.
\n\n\n\nDon’t let an uneven lawn get you down. If you don’t have the time or energy to level it yourself, rely on a local lawn care pro to get the job done for you.
\n\n\n\n\n","title":"How to Level a Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1789c/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg","srcSet":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/107df/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 320w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/293e9/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 500w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/f2cbb/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 800w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1789c/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 960w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/c26c2/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1dd6e/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/67b76/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 320w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/8df11/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 500w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/98a65/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 800w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/1dd6e/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 960w,\n/static/78ec29e9b2dfbb9bbe1e90f64b506798/3cc96/rsz_nature-forest-grass-plant-ground-lawn-1195455-pxherecom.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Level a Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Is your riding lawn mower taking you for a rollercoaster ride? We’ll tell you how to level your lawn and keep it level."}}}],"postCity":{}}}}![LawnStarter](\"http://916rockyard.com/files/materials/183.jpg\"){kind=link}