A healthy lawn is one that is as resistant as possible to the growth of weeds, the onset of diseases and the infestation of insects. If your lawn is not as healthy as it could be, then read on for some suggestions to improve it.
Soil Health
A lawn cannot be healthy if the soil is not. Test the pH level of your soil. A reading of between 6.5 and 7.0 is good. This means the soil is slightly acidic but not too much. If your soil has too much acid in it, then add a sprinkling of lime. On the other hand for soil that does not have enough acid, sulfur can be added. Loamy soils that are made up of a combination of clay, sand and silt are the best option. Be careful not to have too much clay in the soil, however, as this can serve to compact the soil and thus prevent the flow of air and nutrients.
The addition of organic matter, whether it be compost made up of household scraps or grass clippings, is always good for soil. Organic components lighten soil that has too much clay in it while also creating humus for soil that is too sandy in nature. Another one of its benefits is that it makes it easier for the soil to hold onto nutrients and the water it requires.
Choose Grass Carefully
There is not just one generic type of grass you can buy but many. Different types of grass prefer different temperatures and climates. Some require more nutrients than others, and the same can be said for water. Some grasses have a better tolerance for the sun and for shade, and some are simply more resilient than others. Choose wisely.
No Crew Cuts for the Lawn
It is important to mow your lawn fairly often but make sure you do not cut off more than one-third of it at a time. A lawn that is too short will lead to root exposure, soil that is too dry and a lack of surface aeration. As a general rule, keep your grass between 2.5” and 3.5” in height.
Give it a Good Soaking
Watering your lawn deeply is good for it, as it creates deep root systems that are strong and makes your lawn as resistant to drought as possible. However, you should not water too frequently. When you do water, do so first thing in the morning.
