![\"Person](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pexels-gustavo-fring-5163423.jpg\")
Columbus is known for the Ohio Statehouse, a love of football, its arts scene – and unpredictable weather. While it’s hard to compete with Scioto Mile’s perfect green spaces, transforming your Arch City yard into a lush oasis isn’t as hard as it sounds. We’ve put together eight spring lawn care tips for Columbus to […]
\n","content":"\nColumbus is known for the Ohio Statehouse, a love of football, its arts scene – and unpredictable weather. While it’s hard to compete with Scioto Mile’s perfect green spaces, transforming your Arch City yard into a lush oasis isn’t as hard as it sounds.
\n\n\n\nWe’ve put together eight spring lawn care tips for Columbus to help you understand your lawn’s needs in the spring so it can thrive year-round.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nTo enjoy a fresh, healthy lawn in the summer, you’ll need to hit the ground running in the spring. This is when your lawn responds to nature’s wake-up call after a long, cold Columbus winter.
\n\n\n\nFrom mowing, watering, and fertilizing to treating lawn diseases, springtime lawn care is important if you want to enjoy a thick carpet of green come summer.
\n\n\n\nBy tackling a few tasks early, you’ll help your lawn defend itself against potential diseases, drought, and pests. With the proper maintenance, not only will your lawn burst with health, but it will seriously boost your curb appeal and make you the envy of your neighborhood.
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Pexels
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf it’s springtime, it’s preparation time. Before the grass begins to grow, you’ll want to make sure your lawn equipment is in perfect working condition.
\n\n\n\nHere are some key maintenance checks you should perform sooner rather than later:
\n\n\n\nMaintenance makes a big difference, so get your tools ready ahead of time and have a stress-free summer.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lab](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Soil-Fertility-Analysis.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alandmanson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFull, lush lawns can be a beautiful sight, but a lot goes into achieving and maintaining them. If yours isn’t exactly thriving, your soil could be the problem.
\n\n\n\nDepending on each yard, soil composition and acidity levels can differ. By conducting a soil test, you’ll be able to pinpoint soil nutrient needs. Specifically, you’ll get information on soil pH, cation exchange capacity, lime requirement index, and base saturation.
\n\n\n\nPlus, you’ll find out how much phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) your soil contains and whether you need to add soil amendments.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rsz_33362501875_0d0e78d669_o.jpg\")
Photo Credit: UBC Micrometeorology / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn early spring, there is still enough rain to keep your lawn moist and healthy. Consider watering your lawn when you notice the first signs of grass growth. Once you start, make sure your cool-season grass gets around 1 inch of water per week. Balance is essential, and it’s best to let your lawn guide you.
\n\n\n\nIt’s also incredibly important to let your lawn dry between waterings. Too much water can invite fungal disease, weeds, and pests, something neither your lawn nor you will appreciate. While flowers and other landscape plants can handle everyday watering, don’t include your lawn in this schedule.
\n\n\n\nWatering deeply, but more infrequently, will lead to stronger root development and drought-resistance than doing so briefly every day.
\n\n\n\nSigns of an overwatered lawn:
\n\n\n\nUnderwatering won’t do your lawn any favors either. Not keeping up with regular watering will leave your turf looking dry and unhealthy. Your grass will turn gray or tan, and it will have imprints when you walk on it.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to water your lawn is before 10 a.m., preferably around 5 or 6 a.m. Your grass will be able to absorb the moisture before it evaporates. In the afternoon, try to water between 4 and 6 p.m. Watering late at night will make your lawn more susceptible to disease, as the moisture will just sit on your grass overnight.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mow-More-Cut-Less.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile lawn mowing is an actual ritual for some homeowners, there’s a certain technique involved.
\n\n\n\nWe recommend waiting until your grass is at least 2 inches tall. Our table below shows the recommended cutting heights for Columbus cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\n| Grass type | Recommended height |
| Tall fescue | 3 – 3 ½ inches |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2 ½ inches |
| Perennial ryegrass | 2 ½ inches |
| Fine fescue | 2 ½ – 4 inches |
Once mowing season kicks off, follow these simple rules for a healthy lawn:
\n\n\n\n![\"Chickweed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chickweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nChances are you love making good use of your Columbus lawn. What’s not so great? Those annoying weeds that seem to pop up out of nowhere. They’re an eyesore and embarrassment.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll definitely want to get rid of them as soon as they shoot up, but how do you go about it? We provide a couple of ways you can control pesky, deceiving weeds that masquerade as flowers.
\n\n\n\nIf cool-season weeds have taken up residence on your property, you’ll have to invest in post-emergent herbicide. Apply this solution in March or early April and keep in mind that it only targets weeds that have already germinated. It doesn’t work as a preventative measure.
\n\n\n\nFor that, look into a pre-emergent herbicide that targets weed seedlings. Apply it around Mid-March to get ahead of early spring and summer weeds.
\n\n\n\nAlso important to note is the difference between annual and perennial weeds.
\n\n\n\nAnnual cool-season weeds won’t bother you in the warmer months and generally die before you have to take action. On the flip side, perennial weeds are stubborn and stick around for longer, so investing in pre- or post-emergent herbicides will be necessary in this case.
\n\n\n\nSome of the most common annual and perennial weed types in Columbus include:
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Fertilizer-Spreader.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dion Hinchcliffe / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFertilization helps your grass grow evenly and efficiently and reduces the likelihood of weeds. It supplies your soil with three important nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Each nutrient serves a different purpose.
\n\n\n\n| Nutrient | Key Benefits |
| Nitrogen | • Helps rapid growth and protein synthesis • Increases leaf development for dense lawns |
| Phosphorus | • Helps early root growth • Promotes plant maturity and seed development |
| Potassium | • Increases drought and disease resistance |
Fertilize your Columbus lawn in early to mid spring when your grass begins to grow. This is typically around March or April, when temperatures reach and stay around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In the early stages of grass growth, when shoots are tender, it’s important to fertilize more lightly. Once grass is actively growing, you can go in with a well-balanced fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nYou also need to think about what kind of fertilizer you want to use for your yard. Controlled-release fertilizers are granular beads that release nutrients over a period of six to eight weeks. Quick-release fertilizers can be a liquid concentrate or water-soluble beads that act as soon as they’re watered.
\n\n\n\nTake a look at some advantages and disadvantages of both:
\n\n\n\n| Factors | Controlled-release | Quick-release |
| Advantages | • No toxic buildup on the soil • Helps with water movement and soil structure • Introduces beneficial soil microbes • Safer to use around children and pets | • Lower cost • Highly concentrated • Acts faster • Higher nutrient ratio |
| Disadvantages | • Lower concentrations of nutrients • Takes longer to absorb • Costs more | • Can cause more toxic buildup • Made from synthetic materials • Can pollute groundwater |
Fertilizer can be organic or synthetic and selecting the right one for your lawn is vital. Below, we’ve outlined the pros and cons:
\n\n\n\n| Factors | Organic fertilizer | Synthetic fertilizer |
| Advantages | • Doesn’t burn lawns • Slow and steady nutrient release • Contains many trace minerals and balanced nutrition for your grass • Improves soil health | • More commonly available • Formulas made for exact lawn needs • Acts quickly • Costs less |
| Disadvantages | • Less nutrient release in cooler temperatures • Costs more • Dependent on microorganisms in the soil • Can cause harmful runoff | • Shorter lifespan • Can deteriorate soil • Can burn lawn • May cause chemical runoff |
How to fertilize your lawn? It’s easier than you think. Run a spreader around the perimeter of your lawn first and then go over the rest of it, slightly overlapping each pass.
\n\n\n\nThe perks? You won’t have to worry about dirty hands and the fertilizer will be spread evenly.
\n\n\n\n![\"Fall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Fall-Armyworm.jpg\")
Photo Credit: uacescomm / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawn pests. We hate them and want them gone. But they’re stubborn and make it that much harder to achieve the perfect lawn most homeowners dream of.
\n\n\n\nIn Columbus, some of the most common springtime pests include grubs, sod webworms, billbugs, chinch bugs, and cutworms. Read on to find out how to identify them and get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nGrubs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Grubs are the larval stage of different beetle species. As the name implies, they literally grub your grass and attack it at the root level, killing it. When the root system is compromised, grass can’t absorb nutrients and water, leading to severe damage.
\n\n\n\nGrubs are visible to the eye and have a white or brown body that curls into a C shape if bothered. If you notice beetles flying around, it’s a good sign that you have a grub infestation.
\n\n\n\nPlus, you’ll likely see irregular dead spots on your lawn and an increase in animal activity on your property. Raccoons, skunks, and birds like to feed on grub worms – which, if you think about it, is a great eradication method.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: In addition to limiting moisture, you can introduce beneficial nematodes to your lawn. It can take a few years to establish a colony large enough to eradicate grubs, but you won’t have to treat your lawn with chemicals.
\n\n\n\nAnother way is to apply milky spore, a bacteria that also takes a while to develop, but which is deadly to grubs. As a last resort, you can turn to pesticides – the lower the toxicity level, the better.
\n\n\n\nSod webworms
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Sod webworms are lawn-damaging caterpillars. They’re the immature larval stage of various moth types. They appear as small, white, or tan in color, with snout-like projections on their heads. They generally cling to grass blades and can be found with their heads pointing down and their wings rolled tight.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll know you have an infestation if you notice moths flying away as you mow. Moreover, your grass will appear brown and short in certain areas.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: Water regularly and keep thatch at an optimal level, to avoid stresses on your lawn. You can also use beneficial nematodes or insecticidal soap to kill this pest. Lastly, you can apply low-toxicity pesticides.
\n\n\n\nBillbugs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Billbugs are particularly troublesome, as both the larvae and adults can damage grass. Adult billbugs chew holes in the grass blades and deposit eggs inside. When they hatch, the larvae start damaging the root system and kill the grass from the inside out.
\n\n\n\nThese insects are a type of weevil and can grow up to ½ inch in length. Their hard shells range in color from brown to near black and have a pitted texture. The larvae are white with reddish-brown heads.
\n\n\n\nDamage in this case is hard to diagnose. Grass turns brown, but can be mistaken for drought damage, fungal disease, or simply grass dormancy. Test an affected area by pulling out some grass. If billbugs are the culprit, the grass will break off at the soil line and will be accompanied by sawdust-like excrement.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: Billbug treatment calls for multiple approaches. Target adult billbugs in early spring before they lay their eggs and kill off newly-hatched larvae before they have a chance to wreak havoc on your lawn. Also, maintain your lawn height to reduce the ideal habitat for billbugs and treat your lawn with pesticides if needed.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Chinch bugs are tiny insects that are difficult to spot due to their size. These pests are red in color when they’re young, but turn black as they mature. They also have a white spot on their back in the shape of an ‘X.’ They love St. Augustinegrass and usually live in the thatch layer.
\n\n\n\nChinch bug damage can look like lawn disease, with the grass turning brown in patches, but it’s important to never rule out a possible chinch bug infestation.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: If you suspect chinch bugs are damaging your lawn, it’s recommended that you contact a professional. Homeowners can have a difficult time getting rid of them on their own. Worse, these insects are known to develop a resistance to pesticides and overcome resistance in the host plant itself.
\n\n\n\nCutworms
\n\n\n\nWhat are they and how do you identify them? Cutworms are general feeders that can damage a wide range of plants. They are smooth, with some hairs, and a length of about 2 inches when fully grown. Different species have different colors, from brown or tan to pink, green, gray, or black. Some larvae are shiny, while others are dull.
\n\n\n\nThey curl their bodies around turfgrass blades or plant stems and feed on them. They’re most active in the evening or at night and hide in debris during the day. Adult moths don’t do damage.
\n\n\n\nWays to get rid of them: If you discover damage or larvae, you can opt for non-toxic removal methods, such as plucking and crushing the insects or dropping them in soapy water. Furthermore, you can try a wash of bleach-free dish soap or apply organic pesticides.
\n\n\n\nBy keeping up with your lawn care maintenance, you’ll have an easier time squashing any pest problem early. Otherwise, you’ll come up against a damaged lawn and pesky insects that can make spending time outdoors a nightmare.
\n\n\n\nIf you have to use pesticides, stay away from catch-all types that also kill beneficial insects. Instead, go for selective pesticides that act in a targeted way.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Brown_Patch-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Scot Nelson / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLawn diseases can destroy your yard and cause incredible damage to your grass. If your turf is looking patchy, discolored, or just ‘off,’ lawn disease may be the culprit.
\n\n\n\nResidents of Columbus regularly deal with abnormally cool periods, intense heat, humidity, overcast skies, and drought, all factors that contribute to fungal growth. A susceptible lawn will easily succumb to disease pathogens, so it’s important to know what you’re dealing with.
\n\n\n\nWatch out for the following five types affecting Columbus cool-season grasses:
\n\n\n\nBrown Patch (Rhizoctonia solani)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat brown patch:
\n\n\n\nDollar Spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat dollar spot:
\n\n\n\nGray Leaf Spot (Magnaporthe oryzae)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat gray leaf spot:
\n\n\n\nPowdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat powdery mildew:
\n\n\n\nFairy Ring (Soil borne Basidiomycete fungi)
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for:
\n\n\n\nHow to treat fairy ring:
\n\n\n\nTypically, the fertilizer and soil should be moist, but don’t water so much that puddles begin to form on your grass. About 20 minutes should be enough to avoid washing away the nutrients and carrying away the fertilizer itself. It can contaminate groundwater and nearby streams or ponds.
What are some of the biggest lawn care mistakes to watch out for?
If you’re a homeowner, you’re likely eager to care for your lawn yourself. But there are some things you should know before you start.
• Avoid leaving clippings on your lawn after mowing, as this may kill your grass.
• The best time for aeration and seeding is during the growing season of your particular grass type. Find out when that is and you’ll be good to go.
• Don’t cut your grass with dull lawn mower blades, as they can rip and shred your grass and decrease moisture.
• Don’t over or under water your turf – the former will carry away nutrients and increase the risk of disease, while the latter will dry out your grass.
• Don’t forget to fertilize. Without fertilizer, your grass won’t grow as healthy or green.
If your grass is turning brown and dying despite your best efforts, it may be a result of disease or pests setting up camp. It also may be affected by drought and improper fertilization. Identifying the exact cause will help you find a solution fit for the problem.
Columbus cool-season grasses produce beautiful lawns that can survive the region’s fluctuations in temperature. With some targeted springtime lawn care, you’ll be worry-free for the rest of the year and have a lush, healthy carpet of grass at your disposal.
Still, if lawn care is more of a chore than a hobby, hire a Columbus lawn care pro to take your yard to the next level and free up time for other activities.
Main Photo Credit: Topiary Garden / Slowking4 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
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\n","content":"\nAs the temperature drops and the leaves fall, your lawn demands a little extra TLC. If, like most Cincinattians, you have cool-season grass, expect your grass’s growth to speed up and then go dormant by winter. Properly caring for your lawn in the fall gives it the strength to endure a harsh winter and flourish again come spring. So, make sure you cross everything off Cincinnati’s fall lawn care checklist.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"raking](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/pxfuel.com-4-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nIn late September to early October, our leaves change color, then begin to fall. It is essential to manage your fall leaves for the following reasons:
\n\n\n\nSmall amounts of leaves can be mulched with a mower and left to fertilize the grass, but large amounts need removal. Therefore, when the leaves fall, most Cincinattians rake every few days.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lawn-Mowing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Prasannanossam3 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWhen fall is in the air, lawn mower engines blare throughout The Queen City. Most Cincinnatians have cool-season grass that flourishes in the spring and fall, so be prepared for rapid fall growth. The table below shows the recommended mowing heights for the best grass types in Cincinnati.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Mow Height |
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 2.5 – 3.5 inches |
| Perennial Ryegrass | 1.5 – 2.5 inches |
| Fine Fescue | 2.5 – 4 inches |
| Tall Fescue | 3 – 3.5 inches |
Proper lawn mowing practices include the following:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dethatcher2-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Agri-Fab / Wikimedia Commons / CC0
\n\n\n\nA layer of organic debris called thatch builds up between your grass and the soil. You should dethatch your lawn before the thatch becomes 1/2 inch thick. Dethatching is important for the following reasons:
\n\n\n\nYou can use a power rake to dethatch your lawn, and the best time to do so is early fall, right before aeration.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/8704115339_808a6b275c_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Oregon State University / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nCincinnati’s soil contains a lot of clay, which makes it prone to soil compaction and drainage issues. Aerating your lawn in September or October will improve soil drainage and prevent the soil from compacting. Thus, after aeration, more water and fertilizer reach your grass’s roots allowing your lawn to grow lush and strong.
\n\n\n\nBy improving the soil’s drainage, lawn aeration also helps you avoid the following problems:
\n\n\n\nThere are three main types of lawn aeration, as shown in the table below.
\n\n\n\n| Aeration method | Description |
| Liquid aeration | A liquid solution that claims to aerate, but Colorado State University says it isn’t effective. |
| Spike aeration | Solid tines puncture the soil. |
| Core aeration | A machine pushes hollow tines into the ground and removes plugs of soil. |
Core aeration is the best type to use on Cincy’s soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"Thick](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/green-lawn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nRight after aerating, is the best time to overseed your lawn. Many Cincinnati homeowners overseed with seeds from cultivars that highly resist insects and diseases. Overseeding can also improve your grass’s tolerance to drought, shade, and foot traffic. As a result of overseeding, your lawn will be fuller and require less water, fertilizer, and chemical treatments.
\n\n\n\nHowever, be careful if you plant to treat your lawn with herbicide. Herbicides may hinder the growth of new grass seeds.
\n\n\n\n![\"man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Person-spreading-fertilizer.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nCool-season grass requires fertilization in the fall, and here are some tips to help you:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/24445181093_9f2de37aff_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Aqua Mechanical / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAs long as it stays above 40 degrees Farenheit you must continue watering your lawn. Use the following watering tips to ensure your grass thrives:
\n\n\n\nApplying pre-emergent herbicides in the fall will prevent winter weeds from sprouting. Common winter weeds in Cincinnati include:
\n\n\n\nHowever, proper lawn care is the best way to prevent the worst weeds in Cincinnati. Healthy grass can stand strong against weeds.
\n\n\n\nWhen water freezes, it expands, so any water left in your irrigation system can cause its parts to break. Drain all the water from your sprinklers when the temperature drops below freezing, which typically occurs at the end of October.
\n\n\n\nCincinnati’s most infamous fall pests include the following:
Our spring lawn care tips for Cincinnati include:
You should avoid watering your lawn at night because it increases the chance of it getting fungal diseases.
The best way to take care of fall lawn care is to have a professional do it for you. The temperature is dropping, and soon we will be back in brewery season. So instead of working hard in the yard, you should enjoy what’s left of our pleasantly cool fall weather. Call a Cincinnati lawn care pro to take care of your fall lawn care needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Rose Hill Avenue, Cincinnati / Warren LeMay / Flickr / CC0 1.0
\n","title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Cincinnati, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1789c/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/107df/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/293e9/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/f2cbb/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1789c/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/c26c2/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1dd6e/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/67b76/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 320w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/8df11/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 500w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/98a65/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 800w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/1dd6e/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 960w,\n/static/9a5e99a8acf536ae763673695bd86fdb/3cc96/32830005207_0cd641ddf4_k-2-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Fall Lawn Care Checklist for Cincinnati, OH | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"We break down all the fall lawn care your Cincinnati lawn needs to withstand a harsh winter and flourish again in spring, including lawn mowing advice."}}},{"node":{"id":"3ebd0074-0403-5c7a-b6e2-447d002198f4","slug":"best-native-plants-cleveland","path":"/lawn-care/oh/cleveland/best-native-plants-cleveland/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"7ba0d0fa-46fc-5a18-a83f-513673ed896c","name":"Cleveland","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cleveland/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"April 5th, 2023","excerpt":"Cleveland is called the Forest City for a reason. It’s home to many gardens, including the world-famous Cleveland Cultural Gardens. You can have a fantastic garden, too, especially if you choose easy-to-maintain native plants that thrive in Ohio’s diverse climate. Here is a look at 10 of the best native plants for Cleveland. In this […]
\n","content":"\nCleveland is called the Forest City for a reason. It’s home to many gardens, including the world-famous Cleveland Cultural Gardens. You can have a fantastic garden, too, especially if you choose easy-to-maintain native plants that thrive in Ohio’s diverse climate.
\n\n\n\nHere is a look at 10 of the best native plants for Cleveland.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nNative plants, as the name suggests, belong to a local region. They are well-adapted to a region’s climate and soil conditions as they have been growing there for several years.
\n\n\n\nHere’s why native plants are better than non-natives.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/image-263.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBee balm looks beautiful with its bright scarlet flowers. The foliage has a minty fragrance as they are part of the mint family. Bee balm performs best in full sun and moist soil.
\n\n\n\nBee balm blooms throughout the summer, and the flowers attract bees and butterflies. Songbirds like to snack on their seed heads during fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWild geranium features palmate-shaped leaves with five petals. The flowers come in pink or lavender colors. Wild geraniums are beautiful and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nWild geraniums bloom for a lengthy period, from late spring to early summer. They prefer moist soil and grow well in full or partial sun.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun or partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Rich, moist soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Needs high watering during the growth period. Once matured, it requires watering only in drought conditions.
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic to children. Toxic to pets.
\n\n\n\n![\"Field](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/black-eyed-susan-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan blooms throughout the summer, adorning your lawn with bright-yellow flowers with dark brown beads in the center. They are fast-growing climbers that attract birds, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan requires low maintenance and grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. You can remove the dead heads of the faded flowers to keep black-eyed Susan in bloom for much longer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, high drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/image-76.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: rockerBOO / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nCardinal flowers look attractive with their two-lipped bright red tubular flowers. They bloom during hot summers when most plants are done blooming. Cardinal flowers require low maintenance and can tolerate partial shade but not drought.
\n\n\n\nCardinal flowers depend on hummingbirds for fertilization as other insects can’t make their way in to reach the nectar because of the flower’s shape.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist,well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed features clusters of bright orange flowers that attract bees, hummingbirds, and especially monarch butterflies. They require little maintenance and can tolerate drought conditions.
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed blooms from late spring and stays the same throughout the summer. During fall, the leaves of butterfly weed turns dull yellow, and the flowers burst open to reveal their fluffy white seeds.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Dry, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, high drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/White-Wood-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Mets501 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nWhite wood aster looks beautiful and blends well with other plants on your lawn. They bloom in late summer, producing small white flowers with yellow centers that gradually turn red. Butterflies love white wood asters.
\n\n\n\nWhite wood aster tolerates drought and can grow in rocky soil. These plants only require three hours of partial sunlight a day.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial sun. Can tolerate full shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil. Can survive in rocky soil.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, high drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nPerennial coneflower looks distinctive with reddish-purple petals. It blooms from early summer through early fall. Perennial coneflower attracts birds and butterflies when in full bloom.
\n\n\n\nThis plant grows in rocky soils, making it a great option for low-maintenance lawns. It tolerates drought but doesn’t tolerate shade very well.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and about 1.5 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil. Can survive in rocky soil.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Obedient-Plant.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nThe obedient plant, also known as false dragonhead, blooms from late summer to fall. The flowers appear in light shades of pink and white. They attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when in full bloom.
\n\n\n\nObedient plant is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. Wondering how obedient plant got its name? These plants hold their position when bent.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"picture](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wood-Poppy.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nWood poppies look attractive with their bright yellow flowers. They can grow under full shade, making them a great option for shady lawns. They can resist diseases and perform best in well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nWood poppies bloom from spring to early summer. Remove the dead heads of the old flowers to make the plant bloom much longer.
\n\n\n\nIf you like chipmunks, wood poppies are a must-have on your lawn. These cute creatures love the seeds produced by this plant.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to a foot tall and a foot wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Bluish green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Partial to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Savanna-Blazing-Star.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Rawpixel
\n\n\n\nSavanna blazing star is rare to spot in Cleveland, but it’s native to Ohio and can adapt to the climate of the Forest City. It looks appealing with its bright pink shaggy flower heads. Savanna blazing star grows best in full sun and can tolerate drought and rocky soil.
\n\n\n\nSavanna blazing star blooms from late summer to mid-fall and lasts about 1.5 months. They attract butterflies and hummingbirds when in full bloom.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Flower
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Medium green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\nCleveland’s hardiness zone is 6, meaning the winters are cold and summers are warm. The plants listed here are native to Cleveland and survive nicely in the area’s climate. Select a plant that best suits your lawn’s conditions and satisfies your requirements.
\n\n\n\nIf you have children and pets playing on your lawn, we suggest you choose non-toxic plants. Make sure to consider a plant’s growing size when you purchase it. Some plants grow too big, which may not suit your yard.
\n\n\n\nHere are Cleveland nurseries that sell native plants.
\n\n\n\nSometimes, native plants may be already growing on your lawn. So, don’t forget to look around your yard for these plants.
\n\n\n\nNative plants can increase the appeal of your yard. But your lawn won’t be complete without planting the best grass types in Cleveland. A lush, green, and healthy lawn is a combination of everything, including proper maintenance.
\n\n\n\nIf you want someone to help you to maintain your lawn, consider hiring Wikilawn Cleveland lawn care experts.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Cleveland, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1789c/Native-plants-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/107df/Native-plants-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/293e9/Native-plants-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/f2cbb/Native-plants-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1789c/Native-plants-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/c26c2/Native-plants-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1dd6e/Native-plants-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/67b76/Native-plants-1.webp 320w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/8df11/Native-plants-1.webp 500w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/98a65/Native-plants-1.webp 800w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/1dd6e/Native-plants-1.webp 960w,\n/static/4b65b5c09faaee1d704dc648ce390c0f/3cc96/Native-plants-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Cleveland, OH | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Turn your ordinary yard into a heavenly paradise by installing native plants that look great and thrive in Cleveland's diverse climate."}}},{"node":{"id":"dca03c19-33c7-5ac8-8b1e-c876b1ebcd1e","slug":"spring-lawn-care-tips-cleveland","path":"/lawn-care/spring-lawn-care-tips-cleveland/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"7ba0d0fa-46fc-5a18-a83f-513673ed896c","name":"Cleveland","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/cleveland/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f8c37b8-25e8-5e78-8d84-fa2b0ffd84d3","name":"Ohio","count":23,"path":"/category/lawn-care/oh/"}],"date":"March 31st, 2023","excerpt":"Spring doesn’t always feel like spring in Cleveland, where temperatures can vary wildly and you might have to deal with the fluffy white stuff as late as April. But if you want a great lawn this summer and deep into the fall, this is the time to put the work in. Here are our 13 […]
\n","content":"\nSpring doesn’t always feel like spring in Cleveland, where temperatures can vary wildly and you might have to deal with the fluffy white stuff as late as April.
\n\n\n\nBut if you want a great lawn this summer and deep into the fall, this is the time to put the work in. Here are our 13 tips to turn your Cleveland lawn into a mini heaven.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rake-Debris.jpg\")
Rake debris, remove dead plants, and clear fallen branches to help your lawn breathe more effectively. Removing debris also removes the barriers that block your grass from getting the nutrients it needs. Raking can split your grass blades, promoting straight grass growth.
\n\n\n\nAnd let’s face it, a yard without debris looks better any day. It also gives you a blank canvas for mowing, fertilizing, and performing other lawn activities.
\n\n\n\nNote: It’s nearly impossible to avoid thatch altogether as it keeps building up. Thatch less than an inch in thickness isn’t an issue and can actually be beneficial to your lawn as it provides nutrients for grass growth, protects the grass from damage, and helps preserve moisture in the soil.
\n\n\n\nIf there’s too much thatch on your lawn and raking doesn’t seem to help, dethatching is the solution.
\n\n\n\nAlright, but what’s thatch? Thatch is the grass clippings and leaves that accumulate in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nAs mentioned above, thatch less an inch in thickness can be good for your lawn. But anything more than that can be too much because excessive thatch can attract pests, cause diseases, and deprive your grass of nutrients.
\n\n\n\nDethatching your lawn is necessary before aerating it. But even if your yard doesn’t need aerating, we recommend you dethatch it at least once a year.
\n\n\n\nWhat’s the best time to dethatch lawns
\n\n\n\nYou should dethatch your lawn when the grass is actively growing. The best time to dethatch cool-season grass is from late summer to early fall. If you have warm-season grass, you can dethatch it between late spring and early summer.
\n\n\n\nMany homeowners in Cleveland struggle with diseased lawns. Fungus loves Cleveland’s humid climate, which is why the city ranks No. 3 among the worst U.S. cities for weeds and lawn diseases.
\n\n\n\nThe beginning of spring is the best time for fungi to attack your lawn, so, take these precautionary steps to eliminate fungi at their source.
\n\n\n\nHere are the common Cleveland lawn diseases you should be aware of.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for
\n\n\n\nPythium blight appears as small circular patches about a foot in diameter. The infected grasses show up as cottony white material. They appear clearly when the grass is wet.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat pythium blight
\n\n\n\nDethatch your lawn, then treat it with a fungicide that includes mefenoxam or propamocarb.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for
\n\n\n\nBrown patch appears as circular brownish-yellow patches between a few inches and several feet in diameter. Tall fescue grasses are more susceptible to brown patch than other grasses.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat brown patch
\n\n\n\nYou can use a fungicide that includes PCNB, propiconazole, triadimefon, myclobutanil, or thiophanate-methyl as one of its active ingredients.
\n\n\n\nWhat to look for
\n\n\n\nRed thread appears as pinkish-red patches that can be anywhere between two inches and two feet in diameter. They won’t usually kill your grass but can increase the susceptibility of your lawn to other diseases.
\n\n\n\nHow to treat red thread
\n\n\n\nApply nitrogen fertilizer, water the grass, and mow your lawn. You may also apply fungicides, but they won’t be effective if you don’t maintain your yard correctly, as the disease will most likely return.
\n\n\n\nWell, you have treated lawn diseases and removed debris from your lawn. That’s great! But, if your grass still looks thin and has unattractive patches, you may have to overseed your yard.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding is the process of spreading grass seeds over your existing lawn to improve grass density and fill in the patches. You should overseed your yard after aerating or dethatching it as it increases the access to soil.
\n\n\n\nMany homeowners in Cleveland prefer cool-season grasses because of the climate, and early fall is the best time to plant cool-season grass seeds.
\n\n\n\nWhen you plant grass seeds in early fall, they get about three months to grow before winter starts. When spring kicks in, the soil temperature increases, thus accelerating the growth of grass. Before summer, the grass will have strongly established its roots to handle the stress.
\n\n\n\nLast but not least, ensure the newly planted grass seeds get sufficient water and fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nPro tip: If only a few bare patches are in your yard, it may be because of a pest. So, before you overseed, ensure that a lawn pest isn’t causing the issue.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Test-your-Soil.jpg\")
You should test your soil to know whether it contains the essential nutrients for your grass. You may test the soil yourself using a DIY kit or send it to the local soil testing laboratories.
\n\n\n\nMany Cleveland homeowners tend to test their soil before fertilizing their lawns. It’s a good practice to test your soil at least once a year.
\n\n\n\nDepending on the soil test result, add amendments such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, or phosphorus to your soil. Also, if you plan to fertilize, wait for at least four to five weeks so the fertilizer and amendments won’t negatively interact with each other.
\n\n\n\nFertilize your lawn as your grass turns green and starts growing. This is typically in early spring (between March and April). You should avoid fertilizing too early, especially if you have cool-season grass, as it can promote rapid growth, which is bad for your yard.
\n\n\n\nYour soil test will tell you what kind of slow-release fertilizer to purchase. Generally, most fertilizers contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in different percentages, as they are essential nutrients for plant growth.
\n\n\n\nFast-release fertilizers can make your grass grow quicker, but they can damage it. Sometimes, they can even burn it. Also, don’t spread fertilizers by hand. Instead, use a spreader to apply them evenly.
\n\n\n\nThe general recommendation is to fertilize your yard four times a year with 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Here’s how to calculate how many pounds of fertilizer your lawn needs.
\n\n\n\nThis formula may sound complex, but it’s easy when you apply it practically. Make sure not to overfertilize your lawn, as it can damage the grass.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lawn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Equipment.jpg\")
Winter has come to an end. Spring has begun. Now it’s time to get your lawn mower and other equipment ready to bring your yard back into shape.
\n\n\n\nHere’s a checklist to bring your lawn mower back to form.
\n\n\n\nFollow these steps to sharpen your lawn mower blade.
\n\n\n\nDon’t forget to check if your hedge trimmer blades are sharp enough and weed eater has enough line.
\n\n\n\nTurn on your lawn mower and start mowing your lawn as soon as you notice your grass has hit 2 inches of height.
\n\n\n\nThe mowing height depends on your grass type. Here’s the recommended mowing height for common grasses in Cleveland.
\n\n\n\n| Grass type | Recommended height |
| Fine fescue | 2 ½ – 3 ½ inches |
| Tall fescue | 2 ½ – 3 ½ inches |
| Perennial ryegrass | 1 ½ – 2 ½ inches |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2 ½ – 3 inches |
Follow these tips for a perfect mow.
\n\n\n\nToo much or too little water can both harm your lawn. Overwatering can make your yard susceptible to pests and disease. It can also cause shallow root growth and excessive thatch buildup.
\n\n\n\nUnderwatering will cause your lawn to lose its color. If your grass is turning gray and footprints linger because the grass doesn’t bounce back quickly, you should water.
\n\n\n\nCleveland lawns generally require about two inches of water each week. However, the exact amount depends on the type of grass. Don’t forget to consider the rainfall for that week when watering.
\n\n\n\nFor the best efficiency, water your lawn in the morning before 9 a.m. If you water your yard at night, the extra water will remain in the soil, making your grass more susceptible to disease.
\n\n\n\nWe recommend you set up an automated irrigation system to make sure your lawn gets the right amount of water at the correct time.
\n\n\n\nSpring is the season when weeds start growing. It’s essential that you get rid of them to keep your lawn in good shape.
\n\n\n\nRemember the good old days when you have to pull the weeds with your hands? It’s a fun experience, but it can be a pain when there are too many weeds. Now, you don’t have to worry about removing the weeds yourself, thanks to pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\nApply a pre-emergent herbicide to kill the weeds before they germinate. Early spring (around April) is the best time to apply pre-emergents to your Cleveland lawn.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to overseed your lawn after applying pre-emergents, wait for at least four months, as they prevent seeds from germinating.
\n\n\n\nIf you have already started to notice weeds on your lawn, it may be too late to apply a pre-emergent herbicide. In this case, go for post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Pests-in-Lawn-1.jpg\")
Prevention is better than cure. You can keep pests away from your lawn by correctly watering the grass, fertilizing, and dethatching.
\n\n\n\nBut! It’s practically impossible to avoid pests altogether. These pesky pests will somehow make their way into your yard. Spring is usually the time when lawn pests reproduce. Eliminate them before they get time to lay and fertilize their eggs.
\n\n\n\nHere are the pests common to Cleveland lawns.
\n\n\n\nSome of these pests only damage your lawn. But some can attack humans too. So, if you spot these pesky creatures in your yard, take immediate action.
\n\n\n\nUse pesticides that target the specific pest in your yard. Avoid catch-all pesticides as they are less effective and can harm beneficial insects and plants.
\n\n\n\nIt’s usually better to seek the help of a professional to get rid of pests, as some can be very aggressive and harmful to humans.
\n\n\n\nAeration is the process of perforating your soil with holes to allow air, water, and other nutrients to reach the roots easily. Generally, we recommend you aerate your lawn once a year.
\n\n\n\nThe best time to aerate the grass is when it grows. As most homeowners in Cleveland have cool-season grass, early spring can be the best time to aerate your lawn.
\n\n\n\nPro tip: Aerate your lawn a day after you water your grass. It’s easier to aerate when the soil is moist.
\n\n\n\nA lawn without clean gutters isn’t perfect. So, don’t neglect cleaning your gutters. Here’s why:
\n\n\n\nSpring is the time of the year when your lawn needs your care again. Get your yard back to shape to enjoy the weekends with your family in your home.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re on a busy work schedule and don’t want to spend your weekends doing lawn chores, don’t worry. Wikilawn Cleveland lawn care experts can help you with everything needed to make your lawn lush and beautiful.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Pxfuel
\n","title":"13 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Cleveland, OH","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5056461731493098,"src":"/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/1789c/Lawn-Care.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/107df/Lawn-Care.jpg 320w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/293e9/Lawn-Care.jpg 500w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/f2cbb/Lawn-Care.jpg 800w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/1789c/Lawn-Care.jpg 960w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/c26c2/Lawn-Care.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/1dd6e/Lawn-Care.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/67b76/Lawn-Care.webp 320w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/8df11/Lawn-Care.webp 500w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/98a65/Lawn-Care.webp 800w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/1dd6e/Lawn-Care.webp 960w,\n/static/bada0a601e8603d898d206aa66f90f05/3cc96/Lawn-Care.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"13 Spring Lawn Care Tips for Cleveland, OH | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"When spring starts, your lawn needs your help again. Follow these tips to make your yard the place you desire the most."}}},{"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":"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\n![\"Bown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Diseases.jpg\")
![LawnStarter](\"http://916rockyard.com/files/materials/183.jpg\"){kind=link}