Spring is finally here and many Vancouver homeowners are itching to see lawns come alive. Unfortunately many lawns will need significant help to be green and healthy after the winter.
The key to a healthy lawn lies in simple actions that are outlined below. Remember no two lawns are alike as the soil and other growing conditions can be radically different from one neighbor to another, and even between different areas of the same lawn.
The main factors that can damage lawn health include:
- Poor soil: Improperly balanced soil pH, low organic matter levels, compaction and drainage can adversely affect even the most well cared lawns.
- Insects and disease: Non-beneficial fungi and insects are always present but not necessarily in sufficient numbers to cause damage. Properly timed controls when needed, resistant grass varieties, and healthy turf and soil are the best defense against these pests.
- Nutrient deficiencies: lawns require regular fertilizer treatments to replace nutrients utilized by the plant or not readily available from the soil. Get a lab test of the soil for a comprehensive analysis of soil health and nutrient content.
- Improper mowing and watering: Lawns mowed too short can lead to scorching and lawn thinning, inviting weed and crabgrass infestations. Too much or too little watering impacts both plant and soil health.