I was taking a walk around the neighborhood the other day, enjoying the changes of fall, the leaves and the grass. As I passed a house, I saw a sign about pesticides being used on the lawn.
I started thinking that there has to be a healthier way to keep lawns lush and green. When I got home, I started looking for organic methods. I found some great ideas and wanted to share 5 fall lawn care tips that are better for the environment.
1. Keep your grass 2 to 2 ½ inches tall throughout autumn. If your grass grows more than 3 inches long it can mat, leading to winter lawn disease problems. Cut it shorter than 2 inches and you'll severely compromise its ability to make and store food for growth during the winter months.
2. Rake your leaves. Excessive leaf cover can kill the grass underneath. You should also keep grass clippings and leaves off driveways, sidewalks and streets. During heavy rainfall they can end up clogging storm water drains which can lead to flooding.
3. Recycle leaves. The best way to recycle leaves is to compost them, because they decompose into a rich, organic fertilizer. You can also use fallen leaves as mulch around landscape plants. Either use them whole or shred them by mowing over them and then rake them into a pile. If you don't have excessive amounts, you can leave them shredded on your lawn to slowly release nutrients for the grass.
4. Water wisely. Water only as needed to support fall growth until the grass begins to go dormant. Just as in summer, water deeply and infrequently to force grassroots to go deeply into the soil which makes your grass stronger.
5. Fertilize. Apply a dose of organic fertilizer to nourish your lawn throughout the winter. What type of fertilizer you use and when exactly you apply it will depend on what type of grass you have and climate. Contact your local Extension Services to find out your specific needs.
Source: WebMD
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