Green spaces contribute to our quality of life
Lawns, turf and large open green spaces, such as, parks, golf courses and sports fields are critical to our environment— especially in urban areas. They contribute to our quality of life in many important ways:
• Cleaning the air by neutralizing pollutants and trapping dirt, dust and other airborne particles
• Keeping us cool—the front lawns of eight average homes have the cooling effect of 70 tons of air conditioning—the equivalent of central air for 23 averagesized homes!
• Reducing noise levels by 20 to 30 per cent—in cities
• Diminishing soil erosion and flooding by absorbing rainwater
• Recharging our groundwater supply by reducing run-off to impermeable surfaces, such as roads, sidewalks, parking lots and patios.
Remember the healthier the lawn, the bigger the pay-off!
Seeding—A good start is half the battle
• Prepare the soil properly and keep seed moist after planting
• Buy quality seed for a quick germinating, thicker, weed-free lawn. Cheaper brands and noname products often contain weeds.
Fertilizing—Fertile ground will produce
• Select a quality fertilizer and read package labels noting type, application timing and proper usage—usually one application in spring and another in fall is sufficient
• Choose slow nitrogen release fertilizers for consistent, controlled feeding that promotes strong root development.
Mowing—A cut that never goes out of style
• Keep mower blades sharp and don’t cut too short—never cut more than 1/3 the length of the grass blades in a single mowing
• Mowing once a week is usually sufficient
• Allow grass cuttings, if not too heavy, to remain on the lawn and decompose, providing valuable nutrients for your lawn.
Watering – Soak don’t sprinkle for a more drought-resistant lawn
• Watering in the morning is ideal before the sun overheats your lawn; watering after dusk promotes fungus
• Soak well every three to four days for 30-40 minutes rather than a daily sprinkling to promote deeper roots and a more drought resistant lawn
• Increase watering if you note a silvery blue tinge to the
grass or if the grass doesn’t spring back when you walk on it.