Q:

1.1 - How high should I mow my grass?

A:

Grass generally performs best when mowed at one of the higher settings on your mower -- especially in hot summer weather. Avoid scalping at all costs. Never cut off more than 1/3 of the length of the grass blades in a single mowing. If lawn growth gets ahead of you, mow it at a higher length, then lower the blade and mow again a few days later.

Q:

1.2 - How often should I mow?

A:

Once a week is usually sufficient. In spring, when grass is growing more rapidly, mowing twice a week may be necessary to avoid removing more than 1/3 the length of the grass blades.

Q:

1.3 - How important is keeping my mower's blade sharp?

A:

Mowing with a dull blade tears the ends of grass blades, leaving ragged ends which later turn brown, giving the lawn a dried-out look. Such grass blade damage also encourages the spread of fungus disease.

Q:

1.4 - What is the benefit to mowing in different directions?

A:

Mowing in different directions (diagonally, horizontally, and vertically each time you mow will prevent "leaning" of grass blades in your lawn.  Make sharp turns to provide even cuts.  Use sidewalks and driveways as a place to turn the mower.

Q:

1.5 - Is it okay to mow when the grass is wet?

A:

Never mow a wet lawn, as this can lead to uneven cuts and invites fungus to your lawn.

Q:

2.1 - What is aeration?

A:

Aeration consists of perforating the soil (and any thatch above it) with small holes that allow water, air, and fertilizer to get closer to the roots. This enables the roots to grow more deeply, producing a more vigorous lawn. In tests, grass roots have been shown to proliferate around the holes.

Q:

2.2 - Why aerate?

A:

Poor drainage, failure to turn green after fertilizing, and the presence of many worn areas may signal the need to aerate. Intensively maintained lawns should be aerated about once a year; those receiving moderate maintenance need aerating every two years or so. Lawns with severe thatch problems or heavily compacted soils may require two aerations a year, even if other maintenance activities are minimal.

One of the most useful functions of aeration is to penetrate the layer of thatch that forms a water barrier over the soil. Breaking through thatch with an aeration device is far easier and less drastic than dethatching, and is almost as effective. In fact, aeration is better than dethatching in some ways because it causes less stress to the grass and leaves less debris behind.

Did you know that we can aerate your lawn for you? Contact Jayman's Lawn Care at 681-4780 for more information.