![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/2Gr1aJxmMMtnWx4Z-hPiRBMoU9JteyhUPkGmVXOMh3ZvEwAOTVDsdUQbQ83NvrWY1S2qfZOkF7QfNA9lH1D3iPORVKgW6qghcWCd54mJ05Sx3x0-mX1lhBn8YbTCk3j4TaRRiSmh\")
You look forward to it all year long: backyard barbecue season. But the bugs really put a damper on things — especially in Central Ohio where heat, humidity, and rain attract the worst pests in Columbus. Mosquitos, stinkbugs, ticks, crickets, and other creepy-crawly things love to call Columbus home. And they love to make […]
\n","content":"\nYou look forward to it all year long: backyard barbecue season. But the bugs really put a damper on things — especially in Central Ohio where heat, humidity, and rain attract the worst pests in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nMosquitos, stinkbugs, ticks, crickets, and other creepy-crawly things love to call Columbus home. And they love to make themselves at home in your backyard. Along with proper lawn care, there are some ways to curtail the worst pests in Columbus. Learn how to get rid of them and control infestations.
\n\n\n\nThese bloodsuckers are part of every backyard. Bats and some birds are natural predators, but some people are more freaked out by the idea of a bat house. Insect repellants with DEET or Picaridin are effective in warding off the little buggers. Citronella candles are also helpful, although not as long-lasting.
\n\n\n\nAlong with vegetation, mosquitoes like moisture. They breed in stagnant water such as puddles, storm pipes, and rain buckets. Dump out standing water from buckets, old tires, and outdoor containers. Mosquito-repelling plants include marigolds, lavender, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint, chrysanthemums, and citronella.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll find these critters in most Columbus backyards, snacking on flowers and leaves of ornamental trees and shrubs. These bright metallic green insects appear in late June through September, and they’re tough to get rid of. If it’s a small infestation, you may be able to remove them by hand or use a pheromone trap. A word of warning: Those “bag a bug” methods tend to attract more insects than they catch. A neem or pyrethrin insecticide is often more effective.
\n\n\n\nNeem oil is an organic pesticide that controls a host of backyard bugs, including aphids, cabbage loopers, leafhoppers, scale, sawflies, chinch bugs, and spider mites.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/d6m8zouFNIdaVgNXK1wRhHkLhom97CrMMkPc4gRTzgPGPvFz8fUyYXv-shuB3UYDtxsV7xqBfRKi6F4Yxntb2ry0fJ4QLLnFdT5Ne0bUvr1dS2NOUq0DEnx-Mla6Nsisk8STOthU\")
These are the worst backyard pests in Columbus if you’re sensitive to droning noise. You’ll hear them singing their trilling, ringing songs in Central Oho backyards from June until September. They feed off leaves, roots, and trees where the soil is moist but not too wet. Cicadas are often mistaken for locusts. Chemical treatments are usually not effective or necessary. If you really want to get rid of cicadas, spray a garden hose into trees and shrubs to knock the insects out of them. Protect plants with sticky tape or netting to prevent cicadas from feeding or laying eggs.
\n\n\n\nColumbus and Central Ohio have its share of backyard pests and the list is rather daunting.
\n\n\n\nSoapy water helps to remove small numbers of aphids, mealybugs, and thrips. For higher populations, insecticidal soap or pesticides are more suitable. You can make an eco-friendly bug spray with soap, oil, and water.
\n\n\n\nDifficult to control with ordinary pesticides but insecticidal soap works on some of the immature larvae.
\n\n\n\n![\"Caterpillar,](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/21AG80_bT15o-L7m9aCvdufz636l9K8xhW8zovdN38s-WJqUXWHsWPfnZdNpPz339kyN3vxMa32c11B1jmw11t2NxcZly7n_js5Rc8QfVglCKnNVqc-266qGo_lw3CZlJh9EBGAf\")
Registered pesticides are best for these insects, with the granules applied directly to the soil.
\n\n\n\nAphids have a lot of natural backyard predators (lady beetles and lacewings, etc.). You can also control them with insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and strong jets of water.
\n\n\n\nThere is no magic cure to get rid of all backyard insects. The Ohio State University Extension calls it integrated pest management — a process to minimize damage. Pesticides, whether they’re organic or chemical, can sometimes kill the beneficial insects. These are the bugs that eat the worst backyard pests in Columbus.
\n\n\n\nYou can squash the bug problem by choosing disease-controlled and insect-resistant plants and trees. Keep in mind, native plants have built up resistance to the bugs over the years. Keep your grass mowed and weed-free, so the pests have no place to hide or nest.
\n\n\n\nNeed more information about lawn care in Columbus and Central Ohio? Check out our Columbus Lawn Care page.
Dangling Spanish moss and meandering pathways bordered with tall oak trees create a picturesque scene in the heart of horse country. Tucked away in North Central Florida, Ocala’s spring temperatures range from 74 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Take advantage of the pleasant weather and implement our nine spring lawn care tips to help prepare your […]
\n","content":"\nDangling Spanish moss and meandering pathways bordered with tall oak trees create a picturesque scene in the heart of horse country. Tucked away in North Central Florida, Ocala’s spring temperatures range from 74 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Take advantage of the pleasant weather and implement our nine spring lawn care tips to help prepare your yard for the humid Florida summer just around the corner.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpring in Ocala feels like summer to most of the United States. Average March temperatures of 79 degrees Fahrenheit gradually increase to 90 degrees by the end of spring in May. Like most of Florida, residents tend to lawn care year-round.
\n\n\n\nFrom March to May, Floridians care for their warm-season grasses hoping to encourage fresh growth before the extreme heat and humidity take over in June. Spring lawn care in Ocala is more than watering and mowing. As your yard goes through its most active growing season beginning at the end of March, you need to be on the lookout for diseases, pests, and bare spots that need some TLC. With the proper spring maintenance plan, your lawn will be ready to take on the tough summer.
\n\n\n\nSpring lawn care benefits include:
\n\n\n\n![\"pitchfork](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/rsz_garden-ga772b33a8_1280.jpg\")
Photo credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nOxygen is the secret weapon for establishing deep roots and dense turfgrass. Aeration is a common lawn method to introduce oxygen back into struggling lawns with restricted root growth. There are two types of common aeration: spike aeration and core aeration. Aerate your lawn in mid-spring to nourish your grass and stimulate root growth before the long, hot summer.
\n\n\n\nA core aerator removes plugs of soil to create small holes so the soil can breathe. This method leaves leftover plugs of soil on the surface of your lawn, adding beneficial nutrients and microorganisms to decrease thatch naturally.
\n\n\n\nCore aeration is the best method for North Central Florida soils. Sandy soils retain less moisture, heat more quickly, and lack the nutrients of other soil types. Core aerators do a better job of breaking up the soil, creating airflow, and improving water and nutrient access.
\n\n\n\nSpike aeration is less effective than core aeration. Spike aerators create small holes in the ground with a rotating punch. Unlike core aeration, this method does not remove material from the soil, so there is no chance of natural de-thatching.
\n\n\n\nYou cannot bake a cake without preheating the oven, and the same goes for your spring lawn. Soil preparation is crucial to the success of your Florida landscape. It provides nutrients for your grass to thrive. Unfortunately, Ocala soils are notoriously sandy and nutrient deficient, requiring fertilization and other nutrient applications. Residents should send in a soil sample for testing in March.
\n\n\n\nSimply collect samples from different areas of your landscape and combine them to create a one-cup sample. Send this sample in to receive your unique results detailing amendments you can make to improve your soil. Common amendments include lime for soil pH imbalances and nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus applications.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Lawn-Mowing.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaperflare
\n\n\n\nYour lawn feels stressed, just like you. While mowing more is the last thing you want to hear, every time you mow your lawn, you stress your turfgrass, leaving it more susceptible to insects, disease, drought, and sunscald. Taller grass blades develop deeper roots and a more dense appearance.
\n\n\n\nOcala’s subtropical climate requires year-round lawn maintenance. The city’s warm springs lead to early active growing seasons beginning in March. Your grass variety determines your unique mowing schedule and lawn height. To avoid injuring your lawn, never remove more than ⅓ of the leaf blade regardless of your cultivar.
\n\n\n\nAlways aim to cut less, more often. You should mow weekly within the recommended range for your grass type and leave clippings unless you see large clumps on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nGrass growth peaks in March thanks to Ocala’s warm spring temperatures. Bahiagrass is the most low-maintenance warm-season variety. Aim to mow every seven to 14 days to maintain a height of 3 to 4 inches, encouraging deeper roots and a more dense and resilient turfgrass.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass is the lowest-growing warm-season grass and the most high-maintenance, requiring weekly to twice weekly mowing sessions. Mow to a height of 1 to 2 inches to encourage deep roots and a better appearance.
\n\n\n\nThe most popular Florida turfgrass requires very particular mowing heights and is prone to scalping and sun scalding. Mow St. Augustinegrass to heights of 3.5 to 4 inches to encourage deep roots and decrease insect activity.
\n\n\n\nThe more frequently you mow this dense turfgrass, the less likely your lawn will develop a buildup of harmful thatch. While some thatch is a good thing, too much is harmful, blocking out light and water.
\n\n\n\nMow Zoysiagrass weekly, aiming for heights of 1.75 to 2.5 inches. Zoysiagrass leaves contain larger amounts of lignin and silica, making them more resistant and difficult to mow.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Recommended Mowing Height |
| Bahiagrass | 3 – 4 inches |
| Bermudagrass | 1 – 2 inches |
| St. Augustinegrass | 3.5 – 4 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | 1.75 – 2.5 inches |
The best watering method for Florida turfgrasses is as needed early in the morning. Unless your lawn is brand new, all varieties respond well to typical drought conditions. It is time to water your turfgrass when you notice a dark blue-gray color, footprinting, or wilted, folded, or curled leaves.
\n\n\n\nWater these warm-season varieties as needed. Aim for ⅔ to ¾ inch of water per application. Each application will moisten the top 8 inches of soil, saturating the roots of your turfgrass.
\n\n\n\nThe roots of bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass are more shallow than other cultivars. Aim to apply ½ to ¾ inch of water per application to moisten the top 4 to 6 inches of soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bermudagrass](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/what-is-dollar-spot_800-2.jpg\")
Photo credit: Scot Nelson / Flickr / Public domain
\n\n\n\nThe subtropical climate in Florida creates the perfect environment for lawn diseases and fungi. The best defense against these lawn invaders is a healthy lawn and routine maintenance, watering, and fertilization. Some of the most common diseases affecting Florida turfgrasses are large patch, pythium root, gray leaf spot, take-all root rot, dollar spot, and spring dead spot.
\n\n\n\nLarge patch is a fungus affecting St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass in winter through the end of spring. Watch for brown, circular patches several feet in diameter. The most effective control and prevention method is proper lawn maintenance, and most infestations do not respond to fungicide applications.
\n\n\n\nImprove drainage and air movement. Monitor patches and limit fertilization in affected areas. Be sure to avoid over-watering.
\n\n\n\nSlow-growing, thinning turf with irregular bleached patches of yellow grass is a sign of the water mold pathogen pythium root. Pythium root occurs in poorly drained or over-watered soils and commonly affects St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass year-round.
\n\n\n\nAvoid spreading the infection by reducing mowing and watering frequencies. Combat current and future infections by improving drainage and increasing sunlight exposure, if possible. Apply a blend of phosphorus, potash, and nitrogen to the soil to combat active infections.
\n\n\n\nGrey leaf spot is another turfgrass fungus affecting St. Augustinegrass in Ocala beginning in April through the end of summer. Watch for grass that appears yellow, mottled, or scorched. Treat gray leaf spot with proper lawn maintenance.
\n\n\n\nImprove air circulation by reducing or removing thatch. Avoid fertilization and post-emergent weed killers while the disease is active. Monitor and fix drainage issues and avoid over-watering to prevent active and future infestations.
\n\n\n\nTake-all root rot is a soil-dwelling fungus active in spring through early summer. Be on the lookout for yellow or brown grass blades, wilting, horizontal stems, and dark brown roots.
\n\n\n\nTreat the warm-season turfgrass disease using fungicide labeled for take-all root rot. Apply to the affected area in 14-day intervals during spring. Prevent the fungus with proper lawn maintenance by improving drainage, reducing thatch buildup, and increasing the time between irrigation sessions.
\n\n\n\nDollar spot affects bermudagrass and bahiagrass. It is extremely common in the Southeast and is caused by a fungus living in Florida soils. Keep an eye out for circular brown or yellow spots that look like dollar coins.
\n\n\n\nTreat dollar spot with proper lawn maintenance. Maintain nitrogen levels by applying a nitrogen-based fertilizer. Minimize moisture stress by ensuring proper drainage and watering deeply and infrequently in the early morning to reduce foliage wetness.
\n\n\n\nSpring dead spot is another soil-dwelling fungus affecting bermudagrass in Ocala. Watch for circular patches of dead grass ranging in diameter from 6 inches to several feet. The easiest way to spot spring dead spot is to monitor your lawn during its active growth phase in March. Areas affected by spring dead spot will not go through the growth process.
\n\n\n\nTreat spring dead spot by removing thatch and aggressively aerating affected areas to relieve soil compaction and increase airflow.
\n\n\n\nOcala’s subtropical climate creates the optimal habitat for plant growth, including weeds. Weeds invade your lawn, signifying an underlying problem with its health and maintenance plan. These plants thrive in low-nitrogen soils, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf with damaged roots.
\n\n\n\nWeeds steal nutrients, water, and sunlight from your warm-weather grass and spread pests and diseases. The best control and prevention method is optimal lawn health from routine maintenance. However, supplemental chemical methods work in tandem with proper maintenance. Chemical methods include post-emergent herbicides and pre-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\nPre-emergent herbicides minimize the number of weeds in your yard by killing seeds before germination. Apply pre-emergent herbicides in March when soil temperatures reach 65 degrees Fahrenheit to control grassy weeds.
\n\n\n\nLook for solutions containing benefin, bensulide, oryzalin, or prodiamine. Wait 60 days and apply a second application of pre-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\nCommon grassy weeds in Ocala include:
\n\n\n\nBroadleaf weeds are a year-round problem in Florida. Post-emergent herbicides target annual and perennial broadleaf weeds, disrupting their growth. Use these herbicides year-round to target weeds you can see.
\n\n\n\nDo not use post-emergent herbicides if your lawn is moisture stressed or if temperatures rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or fall below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, be sure to wait a few days after a fresh mow before applying chemical treatments.
\n\n\n\nCommon perennial and annual broadleaf weeds include:
\n\n\n\n![\"an](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Person-spraying-pesticide.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nInsects love the year-round warm weather as much as Floridians, and like the seasons, different insects invade particular cultivars at different times. The most common Ocala springtime pests include chinch bugs, hunting billbugs, and nematodes.
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are the largest threat to your lush St. Augustine lawn. These foliage-seeking insects suck vital plant juices from your turfgrass with peak activity occurring in March and April. Watch for yellow spots in sunny locations, signifying chinch bug activity.
\n\n\n\nDIY collect chinch bugs using a coffee can with both ends removed to create a hollow pipe. Insert the can into the soil inside the affected area. Fill the can with water and leave it for a few days. Chinch bugs will float to the top of the can for removal. If you notice more than 15 chinch bugs per square foot, it is time to call a professional.
\n\n\n\nHunting billbugs are a year-round problem for homeowners with Zoysiagrass. Watch for irregular-shaped patches of dead turf. Hunting billbugs feed on the roots of Zoysiagrass.
\n\n\n\nLike chinch bugs, activity peaks in the spring, and infestations are often misdiagnosed as dormancy. Treat billbugs with an insecticide application containing bifenthrin, beta-cyfluthrin, or imidacloprid.
\n\n\n\nNematodes affect most warm-season turfgrasses and are one of Florida’s most prolific pests. The best prevention method is proper lawn maintenance to develop dense roots. Nematodes are unsegmented roundworms, and unfortunately, Florida is home to numerous types.
\n\n\n\nWatch for yellowing and thinning turf, especially during dry periods. Nematode populations peak in mid to late spring, and nematodes need moisture to survive. Apply nematicides like Indemnify to affected areas alongside routine lawn maintenance and proper yard drainage.
\n\n\n\nSpring is the best time to seed or replant your lawn in Florida. The active growing season beginning in March encourages fresh growth, filling in thin and patchy areas.
\n\n\n\nOverseeding involves spreading new grass seed over existing turfgrass to fill thin areas. Both bermudagrass and bahiagrass are low-maintenance cultivars that respond well to overseeding.
\n\n\n\nPrepare to seed your Florida lawn in early March. Spread 0.5 to 1 pound of seed per 1,000 square feet for bermudagrass and bahiagrass varieties.
\n\n\n\nSt. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass do not respond to overseeding. Instead, plan to replant large bare areas using sod plugs in March, April, or May. Space plugs 6 to 12 inches apart and water well daily. Keep crabgrass at bay by applying a root-safe pre-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"man](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Person-spreading-fertilizer.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nFertilizer promotes healthy growth, and the best time to apply this lawn food in Ocala is in mid-April before the Florida summer heat sets in. The type of fertilizer for your lawn depends on your turfgrass cultivar and your unique soil sample analysis results.
\n\n\n\nFertilizer comprises three primary nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Labels have three numbers, such as 15-10-5, which means the fertilizer contains 15% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 5% potassium. Select a fertilizer ratio to satisfy your soil test results.
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that Florida’s sandy soil is high in phosphorus, so it is often unnecessary to apply fertilizer containing this chemical. Apply 0.5 to 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in mid-April, but keep in mind that shaded grass requires less fertilizer than grass growing in full sun.
\n\n\n\nThe Urban Turf Fertilizer Rule mandates that slow-release nitrogen fertilizer applications cannot exceed 2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, and quick-release, soluble nitrogen fertilizer applications cannot exceed 0.7 pounds per 1,000 square feet of lawn.
\n\n\n\nUse sprinklers or an automatic irrigation system to apply water in 10- to 20-minute segments, twice per day, until the seeds have germinated. The germination process typically takes seven to 10 days in Florida.
Organic mulch provides moisture retention and nutrients for your plants. Florida residents can take advantage of the year-round warm weather and lay down new mulch anytime. However, the optimal time to lay mulch is in the spring or fall.
Irrigate your lawn in the early morning hours to cut down on evaporation and potential mold growth, which can lead to lawn pests and diseases.
Florida homeowners spend a lot of time outdoors and take pride in their lawns. With the proper spring lawn care schedule, you can enjoy your Ocala yard year-round and protect its lush, green color from the summer heat. Consider planting some Florida native plants alongside your warm-season turfgrass to complete your oasis.
\n\n\n\nIf you need help controlling your active spring lawn, contact an Ocala lawn care pro to help your turfgrass establish deep roots to survive the hot summer.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Ocala Historic District FK1027 / Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
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\n","content":"\nWhen you take the lawn mower out of the garage after its winter break, does it seem like it’s not running as smoothly as last year? If you can’t remember when you last changed the oil, it’s probably overdue. But what type of oil does your lawn mower take? That depends on the lawn mower engine, the size of the mower, and the mower type. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
\n\n\n\nNew mowers may need an oil change after the first 10 hours of use. Check your operator’s manual to make sure. Generally, lawn mowers need an oil change every 25 to 50 hours of lawn care. Always check the oil level with the dipstick in the middle of summer, to see where the oil level is and whether your lawn mower could use a top-off.
\n\n\n\nThere are two types of oil for lawn mowers: motor oil and small engine oil. Briggs & Stratton, the largest producer of engines for outdoor equipment, found 48 percent of people surveyed believe automotive oil and small engine oil are the same. They are not. There are some major differences between the two, and you shouldn’t use them interchangeably. “Air-cooled engines run hotter than automotive engines,” says Kevin Wenger Sr., owner of Wenger Equipment in Athens, Wisc. He adds, “The oil temperature in a small engine can reach 280-300 degrees Fahrenheit … nearly 100 degrees hotter than the oil in a typical car.” Small engine oil is designed for high-temperature environments and protects the engine from overheating.
\n\n\n\nMotor oil is designed for larger motors typical of automobiles, riding mowers, and deluxe push mowers. You can buy this type of oil at gas stations, hardware stores, and auto parts stores. While some mower owners believe regular engine oil is acceptable for lawn mowers, they could be damaging the engine.
\n\n\n\nMotor oil meant for automobiles and tractors has a high viscosity. The thick fluid may clog up your push mower, causing irreversible damage. A good mower is an investment, and the last thing you want to do is ruin it doing some routine maintenance.
\n\n\n\nMotor oil meant for automobiles and tractors has a high viscosity. The thick fluid may clog up your push mower, causing irreversible damage. A good mower is an investment, and the last thing you want to do is ruin it doing some routine maintenance.
\n\n\n\nTwo-stroke engines– common in outdoor power equipment such as chainsaws, weed trimmers, snowblowers, and push mowers– need small engine oil. The reason is simple: a two-cycle engine doesn’t have separate compartments for oil and gasoline. The result is a louder, smokier machine that doesn’t stall under various types of engine load. It also means that owners have to mix the fuel and oil before adding it to the tank.
\n\n\n\nThe gas and oil are mixed at a ratio of 32:1 or 50:1, depending on the machine. Check your owner’s manual to make sure you have the right ratio. Small engine oil, also known as two-stroke oil, is lightweight to ensure even-mixing and smooth engine operation. You’ll find it at any auto parts store or in the garden section of a hardware store.
\n\n\n\nAll engine oil is rated by viscosity. You’ll find that number on the label. Find the number and follow these steps for finding the right oil type.
\n\n\n\nChoosing the right oil for your lawn mower will help you to avoid engine problems and can contribute to many years of hassle-free mowing. When you treat your mower well, it will respond by treating your lawn well. A smooth-running mower lets you get the job done and spend more time enjoying your lawn than taking care of it.
\n","title":"Lawn Mower Oil: How to Pick the Right Type","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/1789c/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/107df/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.jpg 320w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/293e9/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.jpg 500w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/f2cbb/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.jpg 800w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/1789c/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.jpg 960w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/356ef/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/1dd6e/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/67b76/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.webp 320w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/8df11/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.webp 500w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/98a65/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.webp 800w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/1dd6e/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.webp 960w,\n/static/4ab0ea9fc8a2f69ef78606b3d7170863/93f70/rsz_17506-a-man-working-on-his-lawnmower-or.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Lawn Mower Oil: How to Pick the Right Type | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"68dc653f-b046-52f1-98a1-85b08277a5d3","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-sacramento","path":"/lawn-care/ca/sacramento/low-maintenance-landscaping-sacramento/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lauren Bryant is a freelance writer based out of Eugene, Oregon, with a B.A. in English and a minor in comics and cartoon studies. She is excitedly awaiting the day when she can grow her own edible garden.","name":"Lauren Bryant","id":"104563f0-6820-5e73-b732-a5aa9cd0fd4c","path":"/author/lauren-bryant/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/59c00f89f2a61befe0b5d36cc3b0cc62?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"d4a57f5d-7087-5464-8fbc-e03c067b9723","name":"California","count":13,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"dc0d7559-6ab0-5a1c-9b69-ba5afc1fb61f","name":"Sacramento","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ca/sacramento/"}],"date":"May 9th, 2023","excerpt":"You want a beautiful yard, but must it be so much work? Planting, fertilizing, mowing, weeding, watering — all those tasks add up. If you want to spend less of your free time caring for your yard and more time enjoying it, reconsider your landscape design. These low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Sacramento could save you […]
\n","content":"\nYou want a beautiful yard, but must it be so much work? Planting, fertilizing, mowing, weeding, watering — all those tasks add up. If you want to spend less of your free time caring for your yard and more time enjoying it, reconsider your landscape design. These low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Sacramento could save you time and money in the long run.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"xeriscaped](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/51186129094_248886539e_k-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: cultivar413 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nXeriscaping is a landscape design requiring little to no water or maintenance. It’s best for arid climates, so it fits Sacramento’s hot summers well. Here are some standard features of a xeriscape:
\n\n\n\nNot only is xeriscaping popular in the area, but the City of Sacramento offers rebates of up to $3,000 for replacing your lawn with drought-tolerant landscaping.
\n\n\n\nNot ready to completely redo your yard? Consider taking smaller steps by following a few of our other low-maintenance landscaping suggestions.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Xeriscape installation costs between $5 and $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/blossom-plant-white-flower-bloom-botany-1121375-pxhere.com_-646x485.jpg\")
Common yarrow
Photo Credit: Pxhere
If your garden plants aren’t native to the area, they’ll take much more work to care for. Native plants are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. After all, these plants have thrived in the valley for years without human intervention. Since native plants are usually drought-tolerant, you can use them to create a more eco-friendly landscape.
\n\n\n\nRemember that not all California native plants will do well in Northern California. Here are some plants that are native to the Sacramento area specifically:
\n\n\n\nWant to preview some plants before you buy any? Visit the UC Davis Arboretum or the Fair Oaks Horticulture Center to view plants in person.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Depending on the species, individual plants can cost between $3 and $125. Trees and shrubs tend to cost more than groundcovers, grasses, and flowers.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Untitled-design-13-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Colicmachon / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nIt’s no fun to plant a beautiful flower only for it to disappear in a year. Save yourself this annoyance by choosing perennials instead of annuals.
\n\n\n\nAnnuals tend to have a long blooming season but only live for one growing season before dying. Some annuals reseed themselves, but it isn’t a guarantee. On the other hand, perennials live for multiple years, with some lasting decades. Plant perennials if you don’t want to redo your garden yearly. Some perennials that do well in Sacramento include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Perennials can cost between $0.95 and $45 per plant, depending on the species.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Groundcover_6695.jpg\")
Photo credit: I.Sáček, senior / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0
\n\n\n\nThough many grass types are well-adapted to Sacramento’s climate, they require frequent maintenance. That’s where groundcovers come in.
\n\n\n\nGroundcovers are any plants that can cover large areas of soil. They typically require less water than turfgrass, and you can trade in weekly mowing for the occasional trim. Not only do these plants make great replacements for your lawn, but they also protect from erosion and drought.
\n\n\n\nWhen selecting a groundcover, consider how much you plan to walk on it. Some are traffic-tolerant, but others are best for curb appeal only.
\n\n\n\nHere are some groundcovers you could use to replace your Sacramento lawn:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Groundcovers cost between $3 and $30.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/rsz_14983768881_7e5ef5e914_c-646x431.jpg\")
Artificial turf
Photo credit: Perfect Grass / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
If you’re too attached to lawns to switch to groundcovers, consider artificial turf instead. Artificial turf is made of synthetic fibers. You may have seen it on local school sports fields or in the UC Davis Health Stadium.
\n\n\n\nArtificial turf requires no mowing, watering, or fertilizing — the only maintenance it needs is the occasional rinsing to get rid of debris and brushing to get rid of matted sections. Once installed, it can last between 10 and 20 years. You can replace any damaged portions as needed, and you won’t need to spike your water bill to establish it like natural grass.
\n\n\n\nHowever, studies have found that artificial turf gets hotter than grass. This turf also isn’t eligible for the City of Sacramento’s grass conversion rebate.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Artificial turf costs between $4 and $15 per square foot. You may be able to purchase used artificial turf at a lower price.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Add-Mulch.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Dvortygirl / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nMulch is a practical tool for low-maintenance landscapes. It comes in many organic and inorganic forms, including:
\n\n\n\nBesides adding aesthetic appeal, mulch has many practical uses. It suppresses weeds, regulates temperature, and reduces water evaporation. Organic mulches also provide nutrients to your plants as they break down over time. However, they will need replacement every year or two, so use inorganic mulch if you want even less yard work.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Depending on the type of mulch, expect to pay between $37 and $131 per cubic yard. You can save money by applying it yourself. Bags cost around $2 to $7 each.
\n\n\n\n![\"Drip](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Drip-Irrigation.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Temmuzcan / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWatering can be a chore, especially when you need to follow the city’s watering schedule. What if you forget and miss your scheduled window?
\n\n\n\nAutomated sprinklers are an obvious solution, but even they have their problems. For example, you must turn them off when it’s raining so they don’t waste water. A sprinkler with a rain sensor can automatically turn off when it detects precipitation, so you won’t need to worry about checking the weather and adjusting your settings.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re bothered by wasted water, consider drip irrigation or soaker hoses. They ensure water goes precisely where needed rather than nurturing weeds or evaporating on your patio. You can attach a timer to either system, so you won’t need to think about turning it off.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: A sprinkler system costs between $575 and $6,100. Rain sensors add $30 to $500 depending on whether you install them yourself or hire a pro. Drip irrigation costs between $1.20 and $3.85 per square foot. You can buy a soaker hose kit for $8 to $60.
\n\n\n\n![\"landscaping](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Backyard-Hardscaping.jpg\")
Photo Credit: YinYang / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nTo make your yard lower maintenance, convert some or all of it to hardscaping. A hardscape design utilizes walkways, patios, retaining walls, and outdoor kitchens. Not only is hardscaping low-maintenance, but it also creates an excellent space for outdoor hosting. You can use a variety of materials, including:
\n\n\n\nThe more hardscaping you have, the less yard work you’ll need to do. You only need to clean it off occasionally and replace broken parts. Hardscapes also can improve your home’s fire safety, especially if they cover the 5-foot perimeter around your home.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages:
\n\n\n\nEstimated Cost: Simple hardscaping projects can cost as little as $300, while complex projects can cost up to $100,000.
\n\n\n\nA xeriscape landscape design minimizes water use but still uses plants. A zeroscape uses no plants. For example, it may use dirt, gravel, and stones to create visual interest and prevent plants from growing.
It’s much more daunting to deal with a large space. While all landscaping requires some maintenance, the best way to reduce maintenance needs for a large property is to:
● Use plenty of hardscaping. A large patio with space for a dining table, seating, and a fire pit will give you plenty to do outdoors and reduce space for weeds and high-maintenance plants to spread.
● Plant native, drought-tolerant vegetation. Groundcovers will go a long way toward covering large areas.
● Automate what you can. Watering large areas with a hose can be tedious and inefficient, so opt for sprinklers, drip irrigation, or soaker hoses.
Gravel is one of the cheapest ways to transform your yard into its lower-maintenance self. It’s easy to find in stores and spread yourself. The only downside is that it’s heavy. Gravel costs around $20 to $190 per cubic yard.
Of course, anything you can do yourself will save you money. Want to have a low-maintenance garden? Go to the nursery yourself, dig up your old plants, and plant your new ones in their place. Irrigation systems and artificial turf are relatively easy to install yourself and will cost much less when DIYed than hiring a pro.
You may want a low-maintenance landscape to free up more time. However, transforming your yard by yourself could take several weekends. Hire local pros to tackle this landscaping project for you. They can listen to your needs and give design suggestions to bring your ideas to life.
\n\n\n\nDo you want to keep certain high-maintenance landscaping features? A professional can help with that, too. They can mow your lawn, fertilize your plants, and replant your favorite annuals. The greater Sacramento area is home to all kinds of landscaping pros who can meet any needs you may have.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Pxhere
\n","title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Sacramento, CA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4780952380952381,"src":"/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/1789c/low-maintenance-landscaping.jpg","srcSet":"/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/107df/low-maintenance-landscaping.jpg 320w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/293e9/low-maintenance-landscaping.jpg 500w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/f2cbb/low-maintenance-landscaping.jpg 800w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/1789c/low-maintenance-landscaping.jpg 960w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/bd661/low-maintenance-landscaping.jpg 1552w","srcWebp":"/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/1dd6e/low-maintenance-landscaping.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/67b76/low-maintenance-landscaping.webp 320w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/8df11/low-maintenance-landscaping.webp 500w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/98a65/low-maintenance-landscaping.webp 800w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/1dd6e/low-maintenance-landscaping.webp 960w,\n/static/000590209b0067c5ce0e05c5d5565fad/3a63a/low-maintenance-landscaping.webp 1552w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Sacramento, CA | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Tired of sweating in the Sactown sun? These low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Sacramento will cut down your yard work."}}},{"node":{"id":"58ffd8b1-04df-52e7-abae-46c6d8d9dbbf","slug":"the-most-instagrammable-spots-in-phoenix","path":"/lawn-care/az/phoenix/the-most-instagrammable-spots-in-phoenix/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"7fc32475-4c73-58a8-996f-8b8d79ba2450","name":"Arizona","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"90f74182-5f0d-5dd3-8d32-576a5a21d01d","name":"Phoenix","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/phoenix/"}],"date":"January 21st, 2019","excerpt":"There are plenty of beautiful things to photograph, let alone Instagram, in Phoenix, AZ. You’ll find the usual things like gardens, rock formations, and culture but what about those things that are a little off the beaten path? Check out these unique things that you should definitely add to your list as the most Instagrammable […]
\n","content":"\nThere are plenty of beautiful things to photograph, let alone Instagram, in Phoenix, AZ. You’ll find the usual things like gardens, rock formations, and culture but what about those things that are a little off the beaten path? Check out these unique things that you should definitely add to your list as the most Instagrammable spots in Phoenix.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Yayoi-Kusama-loz-pycock-cc20.jpg\")
One of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places in Phoenix is within the Phoenix Art Museum. Step inside one of the infinity rooms by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama and experience an expansive feeling in just 25 square feet of space. The art installation entitled You Who are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies features mirrored walls and black granite as well as 250 LED lights that dangle at different heights throughout the room. The lasting effect on visitors is supposed to make you feel like you are floating in space and many have come back to the museum just for a chance to experience the room again. Although no flashes are allowed in the museum, many patrons do take pictures within the space thanks to the light in the room.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rDyYl-FsTSuOK2Y6iszDS3LX-vUbf5ewSLGsaHKI-1DYSduFRFpCa3NOQs-tT6RVPkysl1MeWQl3Tf5kh-7GQrlLD_Etu4VL24jTyHyYYa9iU2OBAijDpiPIhBL9o85MkWoK_dB7\")
This giant 11-foot bass was invented in 1850 by Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume and is twice the height of a double bass. The octobass makes sounds so low that they aren’t even audible to the human ear. This magnificent classical instrument is a rare and incredibly hard to play. The octobass is located within the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix and is quite the sight to see. Get an Insta-Worthy pic next to the octobass to get a feel for its immense size that will delight all of your band loving followers.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/UU1jMP_PV6K7p3SKsUWOz0yoE1S8rhSMXcNXhzthOwKReD77mifTO0tNSb65i7Nhe6DoHW91WgO2db3a4l5T7GqEZX5_K0yVVapzMOsPStFB1-JSEyO0sR3P4_N2ePdr5l08sZdm\")
This odd home was built in the 1920s and includes over 5,000 square feet of living space. The Tovrea Castle sits in the middle of Phoenix with 44 acres of preserved desert surrounding the home. It has had three families live within its walls since it was built and was recently opened up for tours to the public. The Tovrea Castle is said to look like a wedding cake and offers many interesting architectural features. The tours for the home sell out well in advance making this a hot spot for those who want to get a glimpse inside its walls. If you can’t get tickets, consider stopping by to snap a picture of the outside of this unique and popular Phoenix landmark.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-61-BbBX4WixOB_MvH_XXh8vuJWAIK-mnV-dVLvFJShQymP6VSVAFebfMnxZUJT-KrGYx51ltUHjk7slIERaZDYWoaqmxeBighl5Grjfmth5D9Fy2Nex6BfttJ3yV3GrGbPoyL-8\")
There are plenty of companies that offer hot air balloon rides in the Phoenix area. Get up before the sun and head out to the desert for your chance to ride in a hot air balloon over the Arizona desert. You’ll watch the sunrise, which is an Insta-Worthy opportunity in itself, as well as get to take magnificent pictures of the balloons that go up that morning. This once in a lifetime opportunity is great for spending time with a friend and will make a great photo to add to your Instagram feed.
\n\n\n\nThis 1960s Shasta camping trailer can be easily reserved on Airbnb and is touted as part art gallery, art studio, coffee bar, and much more. You can stay at The Hive at a great price and experience life in an open artist community. You’ll find the outdoor shower just steps from the camper and may even enjoy a cool shower under the stars. The trailer itself would be great to capture but the unique experience while staying at The Hive will undoubtedly bring about other unique photo opportunities.
\n\n\n\nIt’s almost no surprise that new residents of Phoenix are moving here with all the hot spots the city has to offer. So, if you’re looking for unique things to add to your Instagram handle, consider staying at The Hive to capture a community of artists at work or tour the interesting Tovrea Castle. Take amazing pictures of the sunrise in a hot air balloon ride over the desert or feel like you’re surrounded by fireflies at the Phoenix Art Museum. Cap off your interesting visit through Phoenix with a picture of the incredible Octobass for a unique addition to your Insta-feed. Consider visiting all of these Instagrammable spots in Phoenix for an exceptional tour of the area.
\n\n\n\nDo you have questions about lawn care in Phoenix? Visit our Phoenix lawn care page for more information and tips n’ tricks.
\n","title":"The Most Instagrammable Spots in Phoenix","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/1789c/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/107df/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.jpg 320w,\n/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/293e9/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.jpg 500w,\n/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/f2cbb/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.jpg 800w,\n/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/1789c/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.jpg 960w","srcWebp":"/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/1dd6e/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/67b76/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.webp 320w,\n/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/8df11/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.webp 500w,\n/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/98a65/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.webp 800w,\n/static/a7d67ac2b321806b2346e69cc4710677/1dd6e/phoenix-arizona-sunset-road.webp 960w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Most Instagrammable Spots in Phoenix | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"8cde88dd-63e4-529d-86ed-78c173eac13a","slug":"best-grass-types-michigan","path":"/lawn-care/michigan/best-grass-types-michigan/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Tatiana Barrie is a writer with a background in law and tech, passionate about environmental sustainability and animal welfare. When she’s not writing, Tatiana enjoys reading, camping, hiking, and traveling the world.","name":"Tatiana Barrie","id":"8c60c769-47b8-542b-b658-4947278b51c5","path":"/author/tatiana-barrie/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2efff47c9ef277fa369b6224bb184e40?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"75fb394d-179e-5e85-92bb-a24a339af8a6","name":"Michigan","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/"}],"date":"April 28th, 2023","excerpt":"From the chilly shores of the Upper Peninsula to the warmer lawns of the southern region, Michigan’s climate can be as unpredictable as a Spartans vs. Wolverines coin toss. So, finding the perfect grass to withstand this moody weather is essential – not only to maintain a stunning lawn but also to ensure the health […]
\n","content":"\nFrom the chilly shores of the Upper Peninsula to the warmer lawns of the southern region, Michigan’s climate can be as unpredictable as a Spartans vs. Wolverines coin toss. So, finding the perfect grass to withstand this moody weather is essential – not only to maintain a stunning lawn but also to ensure the health and longevity of your green oasis. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best grass types for Michigan yards.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses, as the name suggests, thrive in cooler temperatures and are the ideal choice for the weather swings we experience in the Great Lake State from season to season. In this article, we’ll explore 5 cool-season grasses: Tall fescue, fine-leaf fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, creeping bentgrass, and perennial ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nNow, keep in mind that you’ll need to consider some key factors, such as your soil type and maintenance preferences, before choosing the perfect cool-season grass for your Michigan yard.
\n\n\n\nHere’s what we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses are ideal for regions with hot summers and mild winters, such as the southern United States. They grow best in temperatures ranging from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit and will go dormant and turn brown during cooler months.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses are perfect for areas with cold winters and moderate summers, like the northern United States. They thrive in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which allows them to stay green for most of the year, except in extreme heat or cold (when they go dormant).
\n\n\n\nMichigan is divided into different USDA hardiness zones, ranging from the frigid 4a zone in the Upper Peninsula to the relatively toasty 6b zone in the southern part. This means that the northern region of Michigan (Marquette, Houghton, Sault Ste) has very cold winters and short, mild summers, while the southern area (Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor) has a slightly warmer climate, especially in summer.
\n\n\n\nNow, despite these differences, cool-season grasses are the only type of grass that can thrive in the Great Lake State. Why? Michigan’s overall temperature is on the cooler side, with summer highs only reaching mid-70s to low 80s degrees Fahrenheit and winter lows dropping to 20s or even colder. Warm-season grasses, which prefer hot climates, simply can’t handle Michigan’s tough winters and milder summers.
\n\n\n\nThe following cool-season turfgrasses are not only the best options for Michigan, but also suitable for lawns across the entire state:
\n\n\n\n![\"Tall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tall-Fescue-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re living in the southern third of the Lower Peninsula, tall fescue is an excellent choice for your lawn. It has a deep root system that helps it stay strong during the hot summer months of cities like Jackson, Battle Creek, Coldwater, and Lansing. Got some big, beautiful oak trees shading your yard? No problem. Tall fescue can also grow in cool, shady areas – however, it’ll perform best with 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
\n\n\n\nThis grass species has strong durability and resistance to common Michigan turf diseases, so you can spend your weekends rooting for the Pistons or the Red Wings without worrying about your lawn’s health. Just keep in mind that fall fescue grows quickly and requires frequent mowing. Also, avoid over-fertilizing. This can cause excessive growth, making your lawn more vulnerable to diseases, such as brown patch or pythium blight.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Young tall fescue seedlings might need some extra care during the winter months. Without proper maintenance, they won’t be able to handle extreme cold temperatures. However, once they’re all grown and established, they can make it through most of Michigan’s chilly winters just fine.
\n\n\n\n![\"Man's](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Fescue-a-species-of-fine-fescue.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFine-leaf fescue is another type of fescue grass, which is known for its fine, narrow blades and its ability to grow in a variety of soil types —even the acidic, infertile soils of the western Upper Peninsula and northern areas of the Lower Peninsula. It can withstand extreme temperatures better than other types of grasses do, and since it grows at a slower rate than other varieties (like perennial ryegrass), you won’t need to spend as much time maintaining your yard.
\n\n\n\nDepending on your lawn’s conditions, you can choose between the various cultivars of fine-leaf fescue to find the best fit for your specific needs. For example, if your lawn sees a lot of foot traffic, you may want to opt for a hardier variety, like creeping red fescue, which is known for its wear resistance. If, on the other hand, your yard has a significant amount of tree cover, chewings fescue is a better choice —it’s one of the most shade-tolerant fine fescue cultivars.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Creeping red Fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate to High, depending on species
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Low to Moderate, depending on species
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low fertilizer and mowing needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. It prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Fine fescue isn’t typically recommended as a standalone option. If you ¡decide to use it in your lawn, it’s important to mix it with other grass types such as Kentucky bluegrass, and Perennial ryegrass for best results.
\n\n\n\n![\"Backyard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kentucky-bluegrass-yard.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / Wikilawn
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is one of the most widely used grass types across all of Michigan’s cities. It’s cold-tolerant, which means it can handle the frosty winter months and come back in full force once spring rolls around. When summer arrives, it’s ready to take on the heat and bring a lush, green vibrancy to your lawn. However, if you live in the southeastern or southwestern regions of Michigan, you’ll need to make sure to water it consistently during the hottest months.
\n\n\n\nKentucky bluegrass is also incredibly durable and can bounce back from the wear and tear of backyard BBQs, games of catch, and lazy afternoons spent lounging in the sun. Plus, it self-repairs quickly, which makes it a top pick for high-traffic lawns with active families or pets that love to run around outside. It’s important to note, though, that it has a low tolerance for shade, so it’s important to plant it in areas that receive full sun.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Rhizomes
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low shade tolerance, among the lowest of any cool-season grass.
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Moderate – if the lawn is not properly irrigated during hot months, the grass will become brown.
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate – however, its rhizomes give it an exceptional capacity to quickly recover from damage.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 2.5 – 3.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 6 – 7.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: There are different types of Kentucky bluegrass. For example, some may be better suited for high-traffic areas, while others may be more drought-tolerant. To create a resilient and adaptable lawn, it’s recommended to blend between 2 to 4 cultivars together. Some great options include Alpine, Boutique, Total Eclipse, and Nuglade cultivars.
\n\n\n\n![\"Blades](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3820997510_5ae18bbfb3_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCreeping bentgrass grows best in Michigan’s northern and central regions, where the climate is cooler and the summers are mild. It’s a fine-bladed grass that can create a dense, uniform lawn when properly maintained. Now, while it can give your yard a lush, green look, it’s actually pretty rare in Michigan lawns.
\n\n\n\nWhy? Well, creeping bentgrass requires a lot of maintenance. It’s prone to certain diseases, like dollar spot and brown patch, so you’ll need to be diligent about monitoring your lawn and treating any issues that arise. Additionally, it prefers well-draining soils, so if you live in an area with heavy clay or compacted soil (like the southern region of Michigan), you may need to amend your soil before planting.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Stolons
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Requires frequent watering, fertilizing, dethatching, and mowing.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 0.5 – 0.125 inches.
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High disease potential. Common infections include dollar spot and brown patch.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: 5.5-6.5
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers moist soils with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Creeping bentgrass is known for its aggressive, spreading growth habit. If you’re using creeping bentgrass in a mixed turf area, it’s important to contain its spread to prevent it from invading other grass types.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Ryegrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is a cool-season grass with fine, shiny leaves that will leave your lawn looking like a Pure Michigan ad. While Michigan’s cold winters can be tough on this grass type, its rapid establishment can help it recover quickly from any damage. Plus, it’s also highly resistant to pests and diseases commonly found in Michigan, making it a top choice for homeowners who prefer to keep chemical pesticides at bay.
\n\n\n\nThis grass type thrives in areas such as the southwestern and southeastern parts of the Lower Peninsula, where the climate is moderated by the proximity to the Great Lakes. The coastal zones along Lake Michigan or Lake Erie can also benefit from Perennial Ryegrass’s adaptability to various soil types, including sandy soils with some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Cool-season grass
\n\n\n\nSpreads by: Bunch-type growth habit
\n\n\n\nShade tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nDrought tolerance: Low
\n\n\n\nFoot traffic tolerance: High
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch buildup isn’t significant.
\n\n\n\nMowing height: 1.5 – 2.5 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential for disease: High. Common diseases include gray leaf spots, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.
\n\n\n\nSoil pH: Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8 but prefers between 6 and 7.
\n\n\n\nSoil type: Prefers good drainage and fertility but can tolerate some poor drainage.
\n\n\n\nOther notes: Perennial Ryegrass is often used in grass seed mixtures with other cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue. This combination creates a dense turf that is more resistant to drought, pests, and diseases.
\n\n\n\nThe best grass types for Northern Michigan include Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and fine-leaf fescue. Their deep root system allows them to withstand the freezing winters while also providing excellent drought tolerance during the summer months.
While all of the grass types in this list will fit Detroit’s yards, tall fescue is certainly a top pick. Detroit’s climate, with its hot summers and cold winters, can be harsh on lawns, but tall fescue is a resilient turfgrass that can handle the warmer temperatures of the southern region of Michigan.
Additionally, this low-maintenance grass offers resistance to most local pests and diseases, which is essential considering Detroit’s humidity.
Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are the best grass types for Southern Michigan’s climate. Tall fescue is a cool-season grass that’s resistant to drought and heat stress, making it ideal for the hot summers of cities like Detroit, St. Joseph, and Grand Haven.
Kentucky bluegrass is also well-suited for the fluctuating temperatures of Southern Michigan. It has a high tolerance for cold conditions, so it can withstand the freezing temperatures that the region experiences during the winter months.
Choosing the right grass for your Michigan lawn can make all the difference in creating a beautiful landscape that can thrive in our unique climate. However, don’t forget to check your yard’s conditions before making a decision. Some items to consider include:
\n\n\n\nAlso, while we’ve mentioned some low-maintenance grass options, keeping a well-groomed lawn still requires some effort and care. If you want to spend more time hiking in the Porcupine Mountains or enjoying the shores of Lake Erie, try out some low-maintenance landscaping ideas, like pairing these grasses with native plants for Michigan. You’ll have a stunning yard that not only requires less care but also contributes to the local ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nNeed to hire a Michigan lawn care pro near you? Connect with trusted professionals in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and many other cities across the state.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: The Wave Field / Dwight Burdette / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Michigan","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/1789c/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/107df/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.jpg 320w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/293e9/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.jpg 500w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/f2cbb/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.jpg 800w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/1789c/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.jpg 960w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/c26c2/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/1dd6e/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/67b76/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.webp 320w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/8df11/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.webp 500w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/98a65/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.webp 800w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/1dd6e/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.webp 960w,\n/static/f2475d1923fb17fc2a41bc293b8bd015/3cc96/The-Wave-Field-Earthwork-Sculpture-University-of-Michigan-Campus.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Michigan","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Need to plant new grass seed? Discover the five best grass types for Michigan's unique climate in our guide."}}},{"node":{"id":"240ef13d-10c0-55ef-a3ea-abcbbb9a9bc7","slug":"lawn-fertilizer-schedule","path":"/blog/lawn-fertilizer-schedule/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Taha Javed is a freelance writer and business student in Lahore, Pakistan. She loves swimming, reading, and playing with her dog.","name":"Taha Javed","id":"0531d17c-e9c8-5153-a6fb-6e2994f71716","path":"/author/taha-javed/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/877749883781783414fae4d0b98beb69?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"July 27th, 2023","excerpt":"Fertilizer is like the fuel that your grass requires to thrive, providing it with essential nutrients to keep it alive and healthy. But fertilizer is only effective if you apply it at the right time of year when your grass is able to absorb those nutrients. Follow this ideal lawn fertilizer schedule to maximize the […]
\n","content":"\nFertilizer is like the fuel that your grass requires to thrive, providing it with essential nutrients to keep it alive and healthy. But fertilizer is only effective if you apply it at the right time of year when your grass is able to absorb those nutrients. Follow this ideal lawn fertilizer schedule to maximize the benefits of fertilization and enhance your grass’s growth.
\n\n\n\nIn this guide, we’ll walk you through developing the best fertilization schedule for your grass type’s specific needs. Let’s get started!
\n\n\n\nLearn about:
\n\n\n\n![\"cool-season](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/cool-season-and-warm-season-grass-map.jpg\")
Illustration by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDifferent grass species have different development patterns, so you must customize your fertilization schedule accordingly. Always apply fertilizer during your grass’s active growth period and never when it’s dormant. Dormant grass cannot absorb nutrients, so any fertilizer you apply during dormancy goes straight to the weeds lurking in your lawn.
\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses and warm-season grasses grow at different times of the year, so they require different fertilization schedules, which you will find below.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue, do best in regions with cold winters and mild summers. They typically grow in the northern third of the US and somewhat in the central portion of the country, known as the transition zone.
\n\n\n\nThese grasses benefit from a fertilization schedule that includes the following applications:
\n\n\n\nEarly Spring: Early spring, around late March and early April, is an ideal time to apply the first round of fertilizer as cool-season grasses emerge from winter dormancy. Choose a fertilizer with slow-release nitrogen for speedy green-up and healthy root development. Aim for a balanced nitrogen-to-potassium ratio to assist overall growth and stress tolerance.
\n\n\n\nSummer: Cool-season grasses can experience obstacles such as heat stress and restricted water supply during the hot summer months. To combat drought stress, adjust your watering plan and avoid fertilizing during periods of excessive heat. Consider using a light application of a slow-release or organic-based fertilizer with low nitrogen content in late summer, as the growth period might kick start. If your grass goes dormant and turns brown in summer, do not apply fertilizer until it greens up again.
\n\n\n\nEarly Fall: As temperatures decrease in the early fall, cool-season grasses enter the period of their most vigorous growth. It is an ideal time for a proper round of fertilization. Use a higher potassium content fertilizer to boost root growth and improve winter hardiness and disease resistance. A balanced nitrogen-to-potassium ratio is still necessary to promote healthy growth during the growing season and prepare the grass for winter.
\n\n\n\nLate Fall: Apply a winterizing fertilizer developed specifically for cool-season grasses in late fall, at least six weeks before the first expected frost in your area, around late October or early November. These fertilizers contain a higher potassium content, which helps to strengthen the grass’s cell walls and increase its resistance to harsh winter conditions. Winterizing fertilizers also aid in the early spring green-up of grass when it emerges from dormancy.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses like Bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass prefer warmer temperatures and grow most actively in spring and summer. They begin to slow their growth in fall when the temperatures drop, and they enter winter dormancy earlier than cool-season grasses.
\n\n\n\nBecause they prefer hot summers, warm-season grasses grow mostly in the South. They can also grow in the transition zone, but they typically struggle in any place with severe winters.
\n\n\n\nThe best times to apply lawn fertilizer for warm-season grasses are the following:
\n\n\n\nEarly Spring: Early spring is an excellent time for the first round of fertilization since warm-season grasses emerge from dormancy and begin their active growth phase. To stimulate vigorous growth, use a fertilizer high in nitrogen content. Look for a slow-release or controlled-release fertilizer that consistently supplies nutrients over time, assuring the grass’s continuous nourishment.
\n\n\n\nLate Spring/Early Summer: Warm-season grasses grow steadily throughout the summer and may require ample fertilizing to remain lush. However, it is important to be cautious when fertilizing during this time. High temperatures and drought can stress the grass, leaving it more vulnerable to fertilizer burn. To reduce the chance of damage throughout the hot summer, use a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer around the end of May or the beginning of June when the heat isn’t too extreme yet.
\n\n\n\nEarly Fall: As summer gives way to fall, warm-season grasses slow their growth. A round of fertilizer application is best done in the early fall, at least 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost in your area. Use a fertilizer with a slightly greater potassium content to increase root growth and improve the grass’s winter hardiness. This application will aid in the recovery of the grass from any summer pressures and prepare it for the cooler months ahead.
\n\n\n\nDo not fertilize warm-season grass in late fall, as it is either preparing to enter winter dormancy or has already gone dormant.
\n\n\n\nLearn more about the best lawn fertilizer practices for cool-season and warm-season grass types in our guide: When and How to Fertilize Your Lawn.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe amount of fertilizer your grass needs can affect how many times you fertilize throughout the year. Each grass type has its own nutrient requirements, so it’s important to identify your grass type before trying to make a fertilization schedule.
\n\n\n\nFind the proper amount of nitrogen fertilizer recommended for your grass type in the table below.
\n\n\n\n| Grass Type | Application Rate Per Year |
| Bermudagrass | 2-4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft |
| Zoysiagrass | 2-3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 2-4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft |
| Centipedegrass | 1-2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft |
| Tall fescue | 2-3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft |
| Fine fescue | 1-2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft |
| Ryegrass | 2-3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft |
You should never apply more than 1 pound of nitrogen to your lawn at one time. So, if your grass type requires 2 pounds of nitrogen every year, you should spread the fertilizer across at least two applications and possibly more applications of less than 1 pound. If your grass type requires 4 pounds of nitrogen annually, you will need to spread it out across four applications of 1 pound each. Don’t fertilize your lawn more than four times a year.
\n\n\n\nBase the timing of these applications on the cool-season and warm-season lawn fertilization schedules above.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-19.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Galeanu Mihai / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSoil testing is a valuable tool for optimizing your fertilizer schedule. When it comes to lawn fertilization, more than a one-size-fits-all strategy is needed. Soil testing enables you to identify nutrient deficits or excesses in your soil. It identifies the nutrients your lawn requires for its best growth, allowing you to fine-tune fertilizer selection and application.
\n\n\n\nTo perform a soil test, buy a DIY soil testing kit or send a soil sample to your local Cooperative Extension office for a more in-depth test.
\n\n\n\nThe soil test results provide essential information regarding your soil’s nutrient level. You’ll get a detailed report outlining the levels of primary nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium, as well as secondary and micronutrients. The report also contains the pH level of your soil (ideally between 6.0 and 6.5), which is critical for nutrient availability at the grassroots.
\n\n\n\nBased on your soil test results, you can choose the right fertilizer for your grass, which will make your fertilization schedule even more effective.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Close-up-of-Female-Gardeners-Hand-with-Iron-Bucket-of-Granular-Fertilizer.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Valerii Honcharuk / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSelecting the right fertilizer for your lawn can significantly impact its overall health and look. There are a few crucial aspects to consider while choosing the right fertilizer, including:
\n\n\n\nTo learn more about these factors and how they affect your lawn, see our guide to choosing lawn fertilizer.
\n\n\n\nThe type of fertilizer you select can impact your fertilization schedule. For instance, immediate-release fertilizers only remain in the soil for 4-6 weeks, so they will need to be applied more often for sustained results, while granular fertilizers remain in the soil for 6-8 weeks and will require fewer applications throughout the year.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIt is generally recommended that you water your lawn lightly after fertilizing. Watering aids in dissolving fertilizer granules, allowing nutrients to infiltrate the soil and reach the grassroots. However, be careful not to overwater, which might wash out nutrients or lead to runoff. Plan to fertilize when the weather forecast is clear of heavy rainfall for a few days.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFertilizing during the dormant season, when the grass is not actively growing, is generally discouraged. Fertilizing during this time may result in nutrient runoff and waste. It can also encourage weeds to take over your yard while your grass is not growing. Not to mention, it’s a waste of your time, energy, and money.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOrganic fertilizers have longer-lasting effects on your soil by far. For one, they take longer to break down into the soil, which means nutrients are released gradually over time instead of all at once. The organic content in these fertilizers also improves the soil’s texture and overall health, whereas synthetic fertilizers can actually damage the soil and kill important microorganisms.
\n\n\n\nThe tradeoff is that organic fertilizers take longer to show visible results in your grass, while synthetic fertilizers can offer a quick green-up and boost of growth. So, you have to decide if you’re more concerned about the long-term or the short-term benefits.
\n\n\n\nSee our guide to organic lawn fertilizers to learn more.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCaring for your lawn means providing the appropriate nutrients at the right time. A well-planned fertilization schedule ensures your grass receives the nutrients it requires all year, supporting healthy growth and vivid greenery.
\n\n\n\nAre you tired of doing all this on your own? Don’t worry; we are here to help. Connect with a local lawn care pro through WikiLawn to help you establish a healthy, bright lawn that will make your neighbors envious.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: welcomia / Canva Pro / License
\n","title":"The Ideal Lawn Fertilizer Schedule","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5463917525773196,"src":"/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/1789c/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/107df/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.jpg 320w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/293e9/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.jpg 500w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/f2cbb/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.jpg 800w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/1789c/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.jpg 960w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/c26c2/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/1dd6e/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/67b76/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.webp 320w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/8df11/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.webp 500w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/98a65/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.webp 800w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/1dd6e/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.webp 960w,\n/static/f57bf0a461823f2fd0483caa825dc1ff/3cc96/Gardener-with-Push-Spreader-Fertilizing-Residential-Grass-Lawn.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Ideal Lawn Fertilizer Schedule | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"What is the right time to fertilize your lawn? Learn all you need to know from our lawn fertilizer schedule, including when and how much to fertilize."}}},{"node":{"id":"3163ae33-24fa-539d-a4ae-42162d441c6a","slug":"lawn-mowing-maintenance-fort-worth","path":"/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/lawn-mowing-maintenance-fort-worth/","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":"9ccd5174-167e-5379-890b-68ac830ec905","name":"Forth Worth","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/fort-worth/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 8th, 2019","excerpt":"Fort Worth has something to make everyone smile – plentiful sunshine, a square-jawed Western heritage, taco and barbecue joints everywhere and museums and universities galore. And lawns. Lots of lawns that need mowing watering and trimming. Here’s a guide to how to keep your Fort Worth lawn happy so you can spend more time on […]
\n","content":"\nFort Worth has something to make everyone smile – plentiful sunshine, a square-jawed Western heritage, taco and barbecue joints everywhere and museums and universities galore.
\n\n\n\nAnd lawns. Lots of lawns that need mowing watering and trimming. Here’s a guide to how to keep your Fort Worth lawn happy so you can spend more time on it, and more time enjoying the 13th-largest city in the United States.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth likes you to keep up the appearance of your lawn. In fact, it insists, in the form of a code compliance office that will issue you a notice if your grass is taller than 12 inches. Properties overgrown with high grass and weeds are not just unsightly, the city says, but “they pose a fire hazard, block visibility for driers, harbor rodents and snakes and contribute to pests like mosquitoes and chiggers.”
\n\n\n\nIgnore the notice for more than 10 days and the city will send out a crew to cut it for you. The cost: $250, payable within 30 days. Failure to pay can result in a lien being placed against the property.
\n\n\n\nIf your neighbor’s grass gets too high, the city makes it easy to file a complaint online.
\n\n\n\nBermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass are the most common grasses for lawns in Fort Worth. Zoysia varieties are also making their mark.
\n\n\n\nIn the mood for something more exotic? Texas-bred native grasses based on buffalograss have great drought tolerance, though the appearance is scruffily untraditional. The Botanical Research Institute of Texas in Fort Worth is one of many buildings experimenting with a buffalograss blend.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses such as the ones that thrive in Fort Worth have their heaviest growth in the summer, so you’ll want to keep to a regular mowing schedule then. If you’re doing the job yourself in the 90+ degree heat, keep your mower blades sharp to prevent shredding that could injure your lawn.
\n\n\n\nMowing heights for different grass varieties are as follows:
\n\n\n\nIn the past, the typical practice was to remove lawn clippings and have them hauled to the landfill. That’s no longer the case, as lawn clippings are now seen as an important source of fertilizer for the lawn. On a typical lawn, leaving the clippings in place to decompose and return nitrogen to the soil for a full season added enough nutrients for you to skip one round of fertilization.
\n\n\n\nFort Worth’s climate is on the hot side, with average highs in the mid-90s in July and August. Expect about 40 inches of rain, with May, June and October the wettest months. That leaves a lot of hot, dry days in the mid to late summer in between, when your lawn will want a deep drink of water. But you’ll need to follow the city’s watering restrictions, imposed year-round to conserve the resource. Lawn irrigation by sprinkler or irrigation system is banned from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Penalties are stiff for violation: up to $2,000 for each offense.
\n\n\n\nBe polite and don’t mow too early or too late. The city has a noise ordinance. While it does not mention lawn mowers or leaf blowers specifically, it does bar “unreasonable noise,” especially at night.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn mowing and maintenance in Fort Worth? We got you covered! Go to our Fort Worth, TX lawn care page for more information.
You cannot create an attractive and healthy lawn just by eliminating weeds. It is also essential to feed your grass the necessary nutrients. Weed and feed products allow you to check both these lawn care tasks off your list in one go. This article will explore how to use weed and feed for your lawn. […]
\n","content":"\nYou cannot create an attractive and healthy lawn just by eliminating weeds. It is also essential to feed your grass the necessary nutrients. Weed and feed products allow you to check both these lawn care tasks off your list in one go. This article will explore how to use weed and feed for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nThese products are designed not only to control weeds but also to foster healthy, thriving, green grass. In addition to how to use weed and feed, this article also discusses what weed and feed is, how it works, and how it can be a friend or foe.
\n\n\nIt is best to apply weed and feed when the temperature is between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Most areas of the country experience these temperatures in late spring and early fall.
\n\n\n\nIt is easier to manage perennial weeds and several types of annual weeds during this time of year. Spring and fall are also the best times to fertilize your lawn, depending on your grass type – late spring for warm-season grasses, fall for cool-season grasses.
\n\n\nInfographic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nProducts with nitrogen should not be used until the soil temperature at a depth of 4 inches is consistently 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If the product has potassium instead of nitrogen, it can be applied during the end of winter or early spring.
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that grass should be fertilized at specific times and intervals to remain healthy. Weed killers must also be applied at specific times of year to be effective. The proper timing for fertilizer and weed control doesn’t always overlap, which is one reason why weed and feed can be bad for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nDo not apply weed and feed more than twice annually, and do not use the products in extreme temperatures, hot spells, droughts, or on windy days.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUsing weed and feed takes pre-planning to make sure the product works. Here are some things you can do before applying weed and feed to ensure the best possible results:
\n\n\n\n— Select a day to apply weed and feed when it is not forecasted to rain for about a week. Water will wash away the product before it can take effect.
— For new lawns recently seeded, do not apply weed and feed until the grass has grown enough that you’ve had to mow it twice.
— About two days before you apply weed and feed, mow your grass to a normal height. This will help the weed and feed absorb evenly into your lawn.
— Watering your grass helps granules adhere to the weeds. But do not water it too much, as it will have an adverse effect. The grass should be slightly damp when you apply the product.
![\"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\nMake sure you use the proper tools to apply weed and feed and wear protective clothing and accessories. You do not want to be exposed to these toxic chemicals any more than necessary.
\n\n\n\nTools needed:
\n\n\n\n— Sprayer for liquid weed and feed
— Drop-type spreader or rotary spreader for granules
Steps to apply weed and feed:
\n\n\n\n— For liquid weed and feed, mix and spray as per the product label’s directions.
— For granules, follow the product label’s instructions for adjusting the spreader settings.
— Open the spreader as per the product’s directions.
— Add the weed and feed in the amount indicated by the package instructions.
— If you are applying near plants you do not wish to kill, place plastic over them or use a drop spreader to protect the vegetation.
— Start at the edge of your lawn and go back and forth in parallel lines, spraying or spreading the weed and feed product consistently as you go. Move similarly to how you would if you were mowing, but overlap yourself slightly. This ensures every area is covered.
— Do not water or mow your lawn after applying weed and feed. Follow the product’s instructions for when to do so for granules and liquid products. If your product has no instructions, see our article on when to water the lawn after applying weed and feed.
![\"caution](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/224f4055-1667-42b4-b7d2-082a567c5f63-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: ArtBoyMB / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nWeed and feed products contain a combination of dangerous chemicals, like MCPP, 2,4-D, and dicamba. Some of these have been linked to chronic toxicity and cancer. Keep children and pets out of the treated area for as long as possible.
\n\n\n\nWait until after a heavy downpour before allowing them back in the yard. If you used a granular product, make sure you can no longer see the granules.
\n\n\n\nIf you would rather use a product that doesn’t put your loved ones at risk, see our list of pet-safe weed killers, which are safe to use around children, too.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Crabgrass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Large-crabgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nHere are some reasons your weed and feed application may not have worked:
\n\n\n\n— These products only work on broadleaf weeds and not grassy weeds like crabgrass. To treat crabgrass, you’ll need a product with a specific crabgrass preventer. Read the label to identify which weeds the product targets.
— You may have watered the grass too soon, or it may have rained too soon after the weed and feed application.
— Weeds must be mature and actively growing for weed and feed to be effective. So, you may have applied it at the wrong time in the weed’s life cycle.
— You did not follow all the prepping steps.
“Weed & feed” is what pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides are called when they include a lawn fertilizer to nourish the grass. These products can improve your grass when applied at the right time. Improved, healthy grass reduces the chances of weeds sprouting.
\n\n\n\nPre-Emergent Weed and Feed: Most weed and feed products are post-emergents. They should be applied before weeds sprout to prevent the weed seeds from germinating. Some, like Scott’s Turf Builder, offer options with crabgrass preventer.
\n\n\n\nPost-Emergent Weed and Feed: Weed and feed post-emergents consist of dicamba and other chemicals that attack broadleaf weeds like dollarweed, dandelions, and plantain. They kill weeds that are actively growing, and they work most effectively when the weeds are young and vulnerable.
\n\n\n\nWhen a post-emergent weed and feed is applied, the weed’s foliage absorbs the toxins. Dicamba is a chemical that penetrates the plant’s roots, making the post-emergent more toxic to the weed. Homeowners should be aware that other plants also absorb the chemical and can be damaged. Be careful not to apply post-emergent weed and feeds on plants you want to keep around.
\n\n\n\nPre-Emergent and Post-Emergent Weed and Feed: Some products contain chemicals that are pre-emergent and post-emergent, which means they can kill currently growing weeds and prevent weeds from growing in the future. The chemical atrazine is an example.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"bags](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/e7e9bd22-a137-4af7-8800-a8c9ed2b9213.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Srinuan Hirunwat / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nSelecting the right weed and feed is similar to choosing the appropriate weed killer or fertilizer separately. Be familiar with the weeds you need to eliminate and the type of grass you have. Make sure you know the best time to apply fertilizer to your lawn.
\n\n\n\nRead weed and feed labels to ensure the herbicide kills the type of weeds you have, determine if your grass has to be at a certain stage to use the product, and make sure the time of year to apply the herbicide coincides with the time your grass should be fertilized.
\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of weed and feed chemicals and products. Included are examples of weeds and grass types they can be used on:
\n\n\n\nAce Lawn Weed Killer
\n\n\n\n— Attacks broadleaf weeds
— Safe to use on: Bermudagrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and Zoysiagrass
MCPP, 2,4-D, and Dicamba Mixture
\n\n\n\n— Attacks broadleaf weeds
— Safe to use on: St. Augustinegrass, tall fescue, Bahiagrass
Scotts Turf Builder
\n\n\n\n— Contains 2,4-D and Dicamba
— Controls several weeds, including common weeds like clover, henbit, and chickweed
— Offers products with crabgrass preventer
— Safe to use on: Centipedegrass, Bahiagrass, Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue
How long should you wait before reseeding a lawn after applying weed and feed?
\n\n\n\nWeed and feed can stop seed germination, so you must ensure it is completely absorbed before reseeding. Wait four weeks before planting grass seed. Likewise, waiting four weeks before overseeding your lawn is also best.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhen is a lawn treated with herbicides safe for children and pets?
\n\n\n\nAllow a hard rain to wash away any residual from the herbicide. You can also water your grass a few days consecutively before letting children and pets on the grass.
\n\n\n\nWhen not in use, keep herbicides out of the reach of children and pets. These chemicals can be just as harmful to pets as they are to humans.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow can I reduce runoff from herbicides?
\n\n\n\nHerbicides that have spilled over onto hard surfaces like sidewalks or roads can be washed into storm drains. Use a rake or broom to push the chemicals back into your grass. This will reduce runoff that can harm the environment.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou have a few choices to treat weeds. Whether you select pre-emergent, post-emergent, or weed and feed products depends on your specific situation. For example, the types of weeds you have, the stage of weed accumulation, and your grass type are all determinants.
\n\n\n\nYou may also base your decision on how the toxicity of chemicals can affect your family and choose DIY weed killer mixtures that are safe for humans and pets. In this case, you would have to fertilize your grass separately, which is not such a bad thing. Grass clippings left on the lawn after mowing are a natural fertilizer. If you have lawn weeds, avoid leaving grass clippings, as this will spread the weeds.
\n\n\n\nIt is important to practice good lawn care habits to maintain a healthy green lawn and keep lawn weeds from returning. Fertilizing, watering, and mowing your grass appropriately will help reduce the chances of weed growth. Treating your grass for diseases is also imperative.
\n\n\n\nAnd if you don’t feel like figuring out weed and feed and other lawn care products yourself, let WikiLawn connect you with qualified lawn care professionals in your area to keep your lawn healthy and appealing for you.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Jon Rehg / Canva Pro / License
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\n","content":"\nIf you care about the state of your lawn, you’ve never had more options to find the right tool for the job. However, “cheaping out” and buying a clunker can hurt your wallet and leave your lawn looking worse than it was before.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to push lawn mowers, there are several mower varieties to choose from, each with their respective benefits and disadvantages. For this article, we got our hands-on countless push lawn mower models to help you find the best product to keep your lawn looking crisp and clean. Read on to learn about our top picks and how you can avoid picking up a dud.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/great-states-push-mower.jpg\")
This classic manual push mower from Great States has five rotating blades of various lengths between 14 and 18 inches to help you keep your lawn looking pristine while also saving money and the environment. For narrow lawns and hard-to-reach corners, the 14” cutting width of this mower is ideal, affording it easy maneuverability and lightweight frame.
\n\n\n\nA T-style handle with a padded grip makes this push mower a great choice for those who are tired of pushing uncomfortable, non-ergonomic mowers.
\n\n\n\nPlus, low-sitting 8.5” composite wheels make this lawn mower able to cut between 1 and 1-¾” grass height for a low, clean cut. This alloy steel build comes at a low cost to provide maximum value with little upkeep.
\n\n\n\nPros:
✓ Precise 1″ cutting height
✓ Five blades for smooth rotations
✓ Ergonomic handle for comfortable pushing
✓ Low 8.5″ composite wheels for a crisp cut
Cons:
✗ May require two passes for a perfect cut
![\"BLACK+DECKER](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/rsz_mm2000.jpg\")
This corded electric lawn mower from the renowned BLACK+DECKER punches through thick overgrowth with a powerful 13-amp motor. The 20-inch cutting deck is especially wide for a corded electric model, letting you mow your whole lawn with fewer passes.
\n\n\n\nPlus, the EdgeMax deck design lets you cut grass right up against curbing, fencing, and other obstacles. With the MM2000, you won’t need a separate edger for the borders of your lawn.
\n\n\n\nSeven adjustable cutting height options make this mower perfect for different areas of your lawn and different grass types. Using a lever, you can easily adjust the deck between 1.5 and 4 inches.
\n\n\n\nPros:
✓ Seven cutting height settings
✓ Wide 20″ cutting path
✓ 3-in-1 mulching, bagging, and side discharge
✓ EdgeMax deck design for close-to-edge cutting
✓ Folds for compact storage
Cons:
✗ On the heavier side of electric mowers at 46.2 pounds
✗ Must stay plugged in during use
![\"PowerSmart](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/rsz_powersmart.jpg\")
This gas lawn mower features a powerful 170cc OHV 4-stroke engine that easily propels the mower through the thickest, tallest grass. The durable steel cutting deck is 21 inches wide, so you can clear large areas quickly.
\n\n\n\nAnother great feature is the 2-in-1 mulching and discharging capability that lets you return helpful nutrients to your lawn as you mow it. With five different cutting height settings between 1.18 and 3.05 inches, the PowerSmart D8621CR will work for multiple grass types.
\n\n\n\nPros:
✓ Powerful 170cc engine
✓ Durable steel 21″ cutting path
✓ 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
✓ Five cutting height settings
✓ 2-in-1 side discharge and mulching
Cons:
✗ Weighs more than 50 pounds
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/worx-mower-blower.jpg\")
If you need a reliable all-in-one solution for your lawn care needs, you can’t go wrong with investing in the powerful dual-battery 20V WORX WG958. This electric lawn mower also comes with an electric leaf blower to ensure your lawn is looking its best all year long. With patented Intellicut technology, this mower provides premium torque to cut through the toughest terrain.
\n\n\n\nWith cutting paths ranging from 14 to 20 inches, this small yet powerful push lawn mower will save you time by cutting a wide path through your lawn. Plus, there’s a built-in removable discharge bag so you can dump your shavings without having to worry about having your lawn littered with clippings and ugly shavings.
\n\n\n\nPros:
✓ Dual 20V 4.0Ah lithium ion batteries for long run time
✓ Cordless leaf blower included
✓ Compatible with WORX Power Share batteries
✓ Intellicut technology preserves battery during standby time
✓ 2-in-1 rear discharge for easy cleaning and maintenance
✓ Adjustable cutting height
Cons:
✗ 33.5-pound design slightly heavy for an electric mower
![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/sun-joe-mower.jpg\")
For a truly unique mowing experience, consider choosing the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO, which packs a small but mighty 13A electric motor. Contained within an aerodynamic green frame, this mower contains a 10.6-gallon discharge bag and chute so your lawn can receive the vital nutrients it needs for the clippings and shavings.
\n\n\n\nThe pro version of this mower comes with a fast rear discharge chute and a fully adjustable cutting height mechanism. Stainless steel blades ensure precise cuts, and in our experience, we never had to double back and redo a cut thanks to a wide 14-inch mowing path. In one charge, this electric mower can easily service a lawn up to 200 sq. ft. in size.
\n\n\n\nPros:
✓ Power of gas machine with convenience of electric
✓ 3,500 RPM steel blade
✓ Large 10.6 gallon catch bag for easy cleanup
✓ Lightweight 29-pound construction
✓ ETL-approved with 2-year limited warranty
Cons:
✗ Broken washers require a full wheel replacement kit
We always go the extra mile to ensure our readers get the most out of the products they buy. That’s why we always test the products we review multiple times. This way, our readers can purchase with confidence knowing they got the best value out of their lawn care product.
\n\n\n\nUltimately, there are many factors that go into finding a reliable push lawn mower. However, our expert analysis considers every relevant factor, including durability, manufacturer’s warranty, blade construction, battery time, storage capacity, and mowing path width.
\n\n\n\nOur holistic review approach covers all aspects of the product so our readers can make a choice that satisfies their lawn’s unique needs.
\n\n\n\nThis guide will cover all angles of push mowers to help readers find the best lawn care solution for their unique needs.
\n\n\n\nThere are three main types of push lawn mowers. Below, we’ll touch on all three varieties and their respective benefits and capabilities.
\n\n\n\nNothing beats the power and torque from a gas-powered push lawn mower. Although they offer maximum performance, buyers should beware that these power mowers are often the most expensive. Not only do they come with the highest price tag, but they are costly to maintain and replace, and gas isn’t cheap these days either.
\n\n\n\nSpeedy and efficient electric lawn mowers are becoming the new norm thanks to cost and environmental concerns. These power mowers plug in overnight and usually provide enough output to cover large lawns without having to recharge. However, over time their ability to hold a charge gradually degrades.
\n\n\n\nPush mowers without motors provide the best long-term bang for your buck thanks to their low upkeep costs. They don’t require gas, electricity, or oil, but they might wear out your arms if you purchase a heavier unit and have a large lawn (100 sq. feet or above).
\n\n\n\nTo find the best push lawn mower, you need to consider four main factors beyond the price tag. Below, we’ve listed what these are and why they’re important.
\n\n\n\nNo matter what type of mower you buy, you should look for a lightweight unit. Ideally, a push mower under 45 lbs. will ensure that you can mow large lawns without your arms and shoulders getting fatigued. Lighter units also allow for easier storage.
\n\n\n\nMake sure that your mower can round corners with ease and get into tight crevices and spaces without having to resort to an external trimmer.
\n\n\n\nPay close attention to the cutting height of the mower. If the cutting height is above 2 inches, you may find that your lawn looks untouched even after a fresh mow. Ideally, find a push mower with adjustable cutting height.
\n\n\n\nMotorized push mowers need to run for at least an hour or two, especially for large lawn maintenance. If you’re considering a gas or electric mower, ensure that it has a long run time of multiple hours on a single tank of gas or battery charge.
\n\n\n\nThe hard truth is that you can’t simply glance at the price tag of a mower to find out which one’s the best for you. Instead, you need to take a deep dive into the model’s specifications to see if it has what it takes to satisfy your lawn’s needs. In this article, we’ve listed our top five picks that will handle most lawn care jobs with ease.
\n\n\n\nStill have questions about lawn care? Visit our lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"Here Are the Best Push Lawn Mowers of 2021","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4990619136960601,"src":"/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/86a97/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/107df/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.jpg 320w,\n/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/293e9/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.jpg 500w,\n/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/86a97/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.jpg 799w","srcWebp":"/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/db080/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/67b76/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.webp 320w,\n/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/8df11/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.webp 500w,\n/static/f3608b7e06c889a2ff30c77db19ba3fa/db080/34845481540_15893d28a3_c.webp 799w","sizes":"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Here Are the Best Push Lawn Mowers of 2021 | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"91f2ce66-a581-513b-94a7-daf19ed24f04","slug":"best-grass-types-flint","path":"/lawn-care/michigan/flint/best-grass-types-flint/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Ayoola Azzan is a versatile writer and investment enthusiast who hails from Nigeria. He loves developing an impactful course and enjoys meditating when at leisure.","name":"Ayoola Azzan","id":"bbad4bd5-6d15-5dbd-a18e-a835dfd091f5","path":"/author/ayoola-azzan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/bd07aedf4f4c15974bb501275dee93ce?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"658c6b99-bf82-550a-a0d5-6b23ee15b7f7","name":"Flint","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/flint/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"75fb394d-179e-5e85-92bb-a24a339af8a6","name":"Michigan","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/"}],"date":"March 23rd, 2023","excerpt":"For a cold-weather city like Flint, cool-season grasses are ideal. However, not all grass varieties can tolerate the region’s chilly weather. Here are the best grasses for seeding and growing lawns in Flint. In this article: 4 Great Grasses for Flint In Michigan, where each season is distinct and vibrant and winters are frosty, cool-season […]
\n","content":"\nFor a cold-weather city like Flint, cool-season grasses are ideal. However, not all grass varieties can tolerate the region’s chilly weather. Here are the best grasses for seeding and growing lawns in Flint.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn Michigan, where each season is distinct and vibrant and winters are frosty, cool-season grasses thrive. They actively grow in early spring and fall and stay green late into the fall before going dormant.
\n\n\n\nHere is a closer look at each.
\n\n\n\n![\"Close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kentucky-Bluegrass-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pilot138-17 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThis grass is a top choice for Michigan homes because it tolerates cold and thrives in well-drained soils. In addition, its fast-growing, sod-forming properties allow for quick recovery of bare spots. It’s most easily recognized by its boat-shaped leaf tip and narrow grass blades. Its fine texture is highlighted by a lush emerald blue-green hue that makes it both visually appealing and comfortable under bare feet.
\n\n\n\nTo look its best and last as long as possible, this grass needs a fair amount of maintenance. Kentucky bluegrass needs regular fertilization per season and a lot of water during hot, dry spells to produce high-quality, weed-free turf grass.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fine-leaf-Fescue.jpg\")
Fine-leaf Fescue
Photo Credit: Forest and Kim Starr / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Fine fescue is another grass that performs well in cool or cold climates like Flint and maintains its fresh appearance year-round. In terms of drought and shade tolerance (partial or complete), this grass outperforms Kentucky bluegrass. Thanks to its deep roots, the finely textured, dark green blades germinate amazingly fast, even in poor or challenging soils.
\n\n\n\nThe only thing to worry about with fine fescue is the amount of water. Excessive fertilizer and water use will eventually harm this hardy grass species and cause thinning.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tall-Fescue.jpg\")
Tall Fescue
Photo Credit: Matt Lavin / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
Tall fescue is an improved version of fine-textured fescue with a good covering time, excellent turf quality, minimal maintenance requirements, and higher tolerance to heat and drought. Its excellent performance on sandy and dry soils makes it ideal for dry regions in Michigan’s warmer climate.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners with pets, lots of kids, or who have had insect problems in the past may want to try tall fescue. The downside is that its rapid growth requires more frequent lawn mowing.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nPhoto Credit: Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass is renowned for growing extremely fast. Given the right conditions, it can begin growing in as little as five days. It’s hardy and drought-resistant, similar to fescue. Because of its rapid growth, perennial ryegrass acts as temporary shade for bluegrass to establish itself, as well as for varieties that cannot tolerate direct sunlight.
\n\n\n\nPerennial ryegrass grows in clumps and cannot spread because it has no rhizomes or stolons. This makes it less tolerant of heavy use.
\n\n\n\nPros
\n\n\n\nCons
\n\n\n\nPlant between August and October for best results. If you miss that, try mid to late spring, but no later than mid-June.
Kentucky bluegrass. Its high cold hardiness makes it the most commonly grown grass in Michigan.
Tall fescue is tough enough to withstand Michigan’s cold winters, as well as heat and drought. Its deep, hard roots help it survive harsh conditions, even when heavily walked on.
It depends on the grass species and climate. On average, grass seed in Michigan takes 7 to 14 days to germinate.
As you can see, the best grass seed for a lawn in Michigan depends on where you live and the time of year. It’s, therefore, important to know the grass species to plant and maintain the lawn in the right place.
\n\n\n\nEstablishing and maintaining a great lawn is tough. If you need a little help, reach out to our lawn care pros.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Peakpx
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Flint, MI","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5018773466833542,"src":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1789c/Green-grass.jpg","srcSet":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/107df/Green-grass.jpg 320w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/293e9/Green-grass.jpg 500w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/f2cbb/Green-grass.jpg 800w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1789c/Green-grass.jpg 960w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/c26c2/Green-grass.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1dd6e/Green-grass.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/67b76/Green-grass.webp 320w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/8df11/Green-grass.webp 500w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/98a65/Green-grass.webp 800w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/1dd6e/Green-grass.webp 960w,\n/static/329c281cc42c7fc822a7b5cdeb0d880b/3cc96/Green-grass.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Flint, MI | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Here are our four top picks for the best cool-season grasses for Flint homeowners."}}},{"node":{"id":"6a36cb74-33a8-5d29-9e37-6c80aa9557c3","slug":"the-definitive-guide-to-identifying-common-lawn-weeds","path":"/lawn-care/the-definitive-guide-to-identifying-common-lawn-weeds/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"April 24th, 2019","excerpt":"Home and business owners across the country have one thing in common no matter their location, taking pride in a well-kept lawn and landscape. Part of that task almost always requires knowledge of what plants are wanted in our gardens and which are intruders. Some weeds are iconic like the thought of tumbleweeds blowing across […]
\n","content":"\nHome and business owners across the country have one thing in common no matter their location, taking pride in a well-kept lawn and landscape. Part of that task almost always requires knowledge of what plants are wanted in our gardens and which are intruders. Some weeds are iconic like the thought of tumbleweeds blowing across the western United States, but most weeds found in our landscape are not as easily identifiable. Let’s take a moment to discuss how to best identify common lawn weeds and how to create healthy lawn care habits that will give your grassy areas a fighting chance against the toughest weeds.
\n\n\n\nA Plant Out of Place. Weeds are known by everyone but are not always easily recognized. Let’s start by defining what exactly is a garden weed. Simply put a weed is just any plant that is ‘out of place’. While this definition could include desirable plants that have overgrown their intended boundaries, most commonly it is used to cover any plant that –
\n\n\n\nWhat’s in a Name? There are two main types of weeds: broadleaf and grassy. Both of these can be difficult to treat as there are also subcategories: annual and perennial. The perennials are the most difficult to get rid of since they live the longest and keep returning year after year. Left unchecked, the annual varieties will continue to reproduce and spread across your property year after year as well. Additionally, there are often several common names for the same weed so photographic identification is most helpful.
\n\n\n\nGrass Weed Types. Everyone knows about lawn weeds but the fact is that they are not always easily recognized. When grass-like weeds start to grow in poorly established grassy areas it can become very difficult to distinguish the desirable turf grass from the weeds. Here are just a few weed types that closely resemble grass and how to quickly identify them.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cheatgrass-definitive-guide-to-weeds.jpg\")
Cheatgrass lives up to its name in that when it is young from a distance it blends into a lawn so well that a homeowner might not realize it has started to take hold until it overruns the turfgrass. When looking to identify cheatgrass, look for leaves that branch out from the base of the plant. These leaves will often have a reddish color and the blades are flat and covered with soft hairs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Johnsongrass.jpg\")
Yet another weed that too closely resembles lawn grass is Johnsongrass. It forms a thick, vigorously growing clump that can rapidly develop into large colonies spreading by their tough rhizomes. Its leaf blades are smooth and display a prominent white mid-rib down the center of each stem.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i1.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/crabgrass.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&ssl=1\")
It is for good\nreason that most people are very familiar with crabgrass, it seems to grow\neverywhere! However, the good news is it is just as easy to prevent. Crabgrass\nis a warm-season annual grass, which means it sprouts from seed when\ntemperatures rise in late spring and can continue to do so through the summer.\nIt will then die when temperatures cool or with the first hard frost in the\nfall. This weed thrives on moist sites with plenty of sunlight and will quickly\ninvade areas where your lawn is thinnest and especially along edges and\nsidewalks.
\n\n\n\nFlowering Weed Types. Some common weed types produce their own flowers. But unlike the flowers cultivated for the gardening bed, these flowers grow from plants that are often quick spreading, have an unruly growth habit, have thorns and pickers, or other undesirable characteristics. The following examples of flowering weeds are examples of those traits.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i2.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Henbit-Deadnettle-definitive-guide-to-weeds.jpg?fit=768%2C1024&ssl=1\")
In some parts of the country, Henbit Deadnettle is considered a wildflower. However, it is a winter annual that blooms in early spring, especially in the south and south central states. Henbit leaves are finely hairy and rounded with notched edges. These leaves grow every inch or so on a square stem. The stems are weak so the longer the weed grows, the less stable its foundation is. It has purple flowers that grow at the very top of the plant.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/dandelion-3923885_640.jpg\")
Iconic due to its seed-head, the dandelion is easily recognizable. Coming from the French name dent de lion (lion’s tooth), the flower has a unique look. Children and adults alike enjoy blowing the seeds, so they take root in a lot of lawns. The leaves grow close to the ground in a star-shaped pattern. In bloom, the flower is yellow. You will usually see them in spring to early summer. They are a biennial or perennial bloom.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Thistle.jpg\")
Thistle\nhas a rapid growth rate and it can get very tall. If you don’t deal with it, it\nwill grow several feet high and about a foot wide, taking up a bit of space in\nyour lawn. When it’s young, it resembles a dandelion except that it’s purplish\nin color and the leaves have long spines on them. They also have hairy, jagged\nedges. Butterflies and other insects love this woolly biennial or perennial and\nwill often eat from it.
\n\n\n\nNow that we’ve identified a few of the most common weedy plants that grow in lawns across America, let’s talk about the wide option of eradication strategies available to homeowners.
\n\n\n\nThere are few lawn weeds that can establish themselves in healthy grass.
\n\n\n\nTherefore, the first line of defense is creating an environment that is good for your lawn and bad for weeds. Simple right? Well, actually it is! A good lawn starts with good soil. If you are starting your lawn from bare soil, such as what happens after new construction, be sure to till the top 4” of native soil before adding a high-quality organic compost to the top. This will ensure there is a little soil compaction as possible, one of the foundations to healthy soil no matter what the soil make up maybe.
\n\n\n\nProper or improper soil preparation before a lawn is installed will have a huge impact on how a lawn looks, and the amount of money it takes to maintain the lawn for years to come. Proper lawn preparation before the turf is installed costs almost nothing compared to what it costs to correct something done wrong after the turf is installed. If you are trying to increase the health of a lawn that already has turf grass adding a ‘top dressing’ of organic compost mulch will help give your soil a boost of nutrients and therefore create a better growing environment for turf grass, not lawn weeds.
\n\n\n\nFor a good source of information about turf grass and soil health visit www.redhenturf.com.
\n\n\n\nThere are many effective organic herbicides on the market and are widely available especially at the home improvement stores and nurseries. Look for application methods that allow you to control the distribution of the herbicide so that you do not unintentionally damage or kill your desirable plants that may be near the bunch of weeds.
\n\n\n\nFor stubborn weeds use a mixture of white vinegar and orange oil as an organic herbicide. In a large bucket mix 1 gallon 10-20% white vinegar with 2 ounces of orange oil or cleanser containing d-limonene (available at garden centers and some large retailers) and 2 ounces of liquid dishwashing detergent. Stir well to combine. Then…
\n\n\n\nStill have questions about lawn care? Visit our lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"The Definitive Guide to Identifying Common Lawn Weeds","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/1789c/grass-845960_1280.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/107df/grass-845960_1280.jpg 320w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/293e9/grass-845960_1280.jpg 500w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/f2cbb/grass-845960_1280.jpg 800w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/1789c/grass-845960_1280.jpg 960w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/356ef/grass-845960_1280.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/1dd6e/grass-845960_1280.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/67b76/grass-845960_1280.webp 320w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/8df11/grass-845960_1280.webp 500w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/98a65/grass-845960_1280.webp 800w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/1dd6e/grass-845960_1280.webp 960w,\n/static/e8fc32d80ddf5cb307a2ece1e3089202/93f70/grass-845960_1280.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Definitive Guide to Identifying Common Lawn Weeds | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"e0abbfa5-a5e1-5f56-876b-5766c255217a","slug":"grass-types-san-antonio","path":"/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/grass-types-san-antonio/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"be366c94-0b46-5716-9ac2-ed152902f864","name":"San Antonio","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/san-antonio/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 13th, 2020","excerpt":"Texas is a warm season area for most of the year, and your lawn will thrive with a warm season grass. A clear understanding of what kind your lawn has ensures you’re grass cutting and maintaining appropriately. The most common warm season grasses used in Texas are as follows: Bermudagrass This is the most popular […]
\n","content":"\nTexas is a warm season area for most of the year, and your lawn will thrive with a warm season grass. A clear understanding of what kind your lawn has ensures you’re grass cutting and maintaining appropriately. The most common warm season grasses used in Texas are as follows:
\n\n\n\nThis is the most popular kind of grass in Texas. It’s known to be very resilient against disease and pests. The more you mow this grass, the thicker it grows. This also makes it more able to withstand traffic than other turf grasses, meaning Bermudagrass is best suited for families with pets and/or children.
\n\n\n\nYou should keep Bermudagrass at 1.5 inches tall and have little to no shade over it. Mowing it when it reaches 2.25 inches will give the best results.
\n\n\n\nThis is the second most popular grass in Texas, as it’s cheap and doesn’t require a whole lot of maintenance, but can’t handle a lot of foot traffic. This grass is best for use during the summer because it becomes brittle and brown in the winter. Overseeding with a cool season grass like Ryegrass during the winter is the best way to keep your lawn looking fresh if you primarily use Raleigh St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nOne drawback of this grass is that it’s very susceptible to chinch bugs and brown patch disease. It’s best kept at 3-4 inches long and requires almost no shade at all.
\n\n\n\nThis grass is very low maintenance and is native to Texas. It’s typically found in West Texas growing wild along highways. It has low potential for disease and low fertilization and lawn mowing requirements. It’s best kept at a height of 5-6 inches and needs only 1 inch of water per month to thrive. It does not do well in shade.
\n\n\n\nZoysiagrass has the best shade tolerance of all the grasses on this list, making it perfect for East Texas where shade is much more abundant. It’s very low maintenance and handles traffic decently well.
\n\n\n\nIt requires about .5 inches of water to sustain itself and about .75 inches during the growing season. It’s best kept at a height of 2 inches and should be mowed when it reaches 3 inches.
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