Many people depend on reliable information to care for their lawns. But discerning what information is reliable can be hard. There are a lot of so-called “facts” about lawn care floating around out there. Some of it is true and some of it is not. Following bad advice can wreak havoc on your lawn. But have no fear, we can help you “weed out” the bad info. Below you’ll find some of the most common lawn care myths you probably believe.
False: Cut Short for Less Mowing
While many people believe that lowering your blades and cutting your lawn shorter will decrease the frequency with which you have to mow, it actually damages your lawn. When cut too short, grass roots can be overexposed to the hot sun causing your lawn to turn brown.
It can also encourage weed growth as weeds fare better in drier, hotter conditions than grass. Ensuring your mower blade is raised during hot summer months will provide much-needed shade to your lawn’s roots and will make for a greener and healthier lawn.
False: Grass Clippings = Thatch
The widespread, but erroneous, belief that grass clippings left on the lawn creates thatch was debunked in the late ’60s by a study at the University of Rhode Island. They found that thatch is primarily composed of stolons, stems, roots, and rhizomes. Grass clippings, on the other hand, are mostly water and will break down quickly, returning nutrients to your lawn. So, feel free to mulch those clippings right back into the yard without worry.
False: Spring is the Best Time to Aerate
Aeration, as a rule, should be done every other season, usually, fall. There are many reasons for this, including the weather. When this service is done, it is an opportune time to overseed your lawn. The grass seeds will make their way into the aeration holes ad germinate, producing a thick healthy lawn.
False: You Should Mow in the Morning
Even without rain, lawns are usually wet in the morning because of moisture from dew. Wait for your lawn to dry before mowing, as cutting wet grass can result in an uneven trim and promotes and spread disease. Wet clippings can also block your mower and cause it to dump clumps of grass on your lawn; if they aren’t raked up, they can smother the growing grass and result in brown spots
If you need any help, you can count on our lawn care experts to provide expert advice and reliable services throughout the year. For a “no worries, we got this” all-encompassing plan, check out our Full-Service Program. We give your lawn everything it needs to stay looking good.
