The best way to maintain a lawn is to avoid over-watering it. This not only wastes water but can also damage plants. Instead, watering a lawn only when it shows signs of moisture stress is recommended. These signs include bluish-gray color, footprints left when walking, and wilted, folded, or curled leaves. Moreover, a lawn not watered is susceptible to dormancy and damage. Here are a few ways to maintain a beautiful lawn turf Kissimmee FL.
Mowing
The first step in maintaining a healthy lawn is understanding how to mow lawn turfs properly. The first cut should be done a week after the turf is planted for new turf. Always use sharp mower blades when cutting new turf; a blunt blade will tear the grass, leaving open wounds that may harbor disease. Also, do not pull the grass when mowing.
Mowing grass is essential to lawn maintenance and should be done by someone familiar with it. The proper height and technique can make all the difference in turfgrass’s overall appearance and long life. Avoid mowing turfs too low, as it will reduce the leaf area for photosynthesis. Also, a lower cutting height will make lawns less resilient to environmental stress and susceptible to invasion by weeds.
The right height for lawn turfs depends on several factors, including the season, weather, and the amount of fertilizer used. Generally, it is recommended to mow lawn turfs at about 50% of the recommended height for the species. Also, mowing lawn turfs close to the ground can help promote early green-up.
Cleaning Up Spills
Cleaning up spills on lawn turfs is quick and easy. Using a cleaning sponge with some detergent suds and cool water will effectively remove most spills. Make sure to use a wet cloth to avoid damaging the turf blades. For stubborn stains, mineral spirits may be the answer. However, wear protective gear when using mineral spirits, as these products emit toxic fumes.
If the spill is dry, you can use a shop vac to remove it. Be sure to hold the hose away from the turf surface when using a hose. You can also use commercial disinfectants to remove any stains. Avoid petroleum-based products, as they can damage turf fibers.
If the spill isn’t easily removed, use a non-abrasive cleaner to eliminate the odor. You can also use mineral spirits or ammonia to remove stubborn stains. If your spill is a bit more stubborn, you can use water and vinegar in equal parts.
Cleaning Up Weeds
Regular weed control is essential when it comes to maintaining healthy lawn turfs. Weeds have robust roots and can compete with grass for moisture. This, in turn, can cause the grass to become weaker and more vulnerable to weed infestations. One way to prevent weeds is to use a weed killer. This substance is derived from corn and is often marketed as a weed suppressant. It can be sprayed onto turfgrass and can prevent some weeds from emerging. However, there is some controversy surrounding the effectiveness of this solution.
Another way to prevent weeds from growing is to use a leaf blower to remove large leaves and other debris. You can also use a broom and dustpan to remove smaller debris.
