Lawn Care
Fertilization of Turf Areas
Commercial fertilizers usually contain three main nutrients: Nitrogen (N) to promote leaf growth, phosphorus (P) for root development, and potassium (K) which is essential for stress resistance. As a general rule of thumb a good ratio for lawn fertilizer would be 4-1-2 (these numbers can be higher but in the same proportions). Seasonal applications (high nitrogen in the spring, high phosphorus in the fall) should be applied in a criss-cross pattern using a drop or oscillating spreader for complete coverage. Applications should be made on dry turf unless your lawn has a wide spread weed problem. In this case a weed and feed fertilizer should be applied, taking into consideration the maturity of the weed growth, moisture levels, etc. When applying fertilizer the spreader's openings should be closed two to three feet before the end of each (burnage of turf may result from excessive droppage).
Watering
Turf areas require about two and a half centimeters of water every week during the growing season. Excessive watering can lead to poor growing conditions and disease problems. Early morning is the ideal time for watering lawns because it reduces water loss through evaporation and wind. Turf growing near large tree species may need more frequent watering sine the roots may absorb much of the soil water.
Mowing
To keep your lawn looking its best, it is important to mow it at the right height (two to three inches), at the right time (dry turf), and with the right equipment. Leave grass clippings on your lawn awfter mowing as this provides an excellent source of slow release nitrogen for grass and humus for the soil. Overlap each pass slightly to eliminate ridges in the grass and always keep the mower blade sharpened. Turf can recover more quickly and easily from one clean cut than from many tears.