Top Home Lawn Maintenance Checklists for 2026

It also resolves thatch problems by producing an excellent environment for microbes that deteriorate thatch. Core aerators are readily available for rental at many hardware stores and devices providers. Usage self-propelled units with vertically running tines when possible; tines installed on drum rollers are less efficient since they pull shallower cores.

Effectively growing turfgrass in the shade can be challenging. Turfgrass plants are naturally adjusted to grow in full sun to partial shade. (Glechoma hederacea).

For best results, plant mixes containing at least 50% great fescues for dry, shaded conditions. For damp, shaded conditions plant mixtures with at least 10% supina bluegrass (P. supina).

Apply fertilizer at the exact same time as for turf in sunny areas however cut the rate in half. Using the full rate on shaded turf momentarily increases leaf growth and prevents vigorous root development; ultimately the turf passes away as the root system can no longer provide adequate water and nutrients to the leaves.

Research study shows the leaves can be mulched into the lawn without damaging the grass, as long as the blades of yard remain 12 inches above the mulched tree leaves. For some locations, shade-tolerant groundcovers or mulches might be a better option than turfgrass. Refer to Growing Grass in Shade for a listing of plants adapted to low-light areas.

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They get into any place turf is weak or thin. Good cultural management practices (mowing, fertilization, and watering) will encourage growth of dense, healthy grass and crowd out and prevent weeds.

When combined with good management practices, a herbicide application may only be required every numerous years. Select an herbicide based on its ability to control the target weed(s). Factors to consider consist of the type of weed and the life cycle of the weed (yearly, biennial, or perennial). Make certain you have the correct application equipment.

Other herbicides are packaged to be applied using a garden hose. Do not acquire more herbicide than you will use within 1 year.

If you plan to overseed, follow the directions on the label to make certain the herbicide application does not avoid germination of the seed. Numerous herbicides specify for just certain types of weeds; these are termed selective herbicides. Nonselective herbicides (e.g., Roundup, Kleenup) will kill any plant that absorbs the herbicide.

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Weeds are categorized as turfs, sedges, or broadleaves. Most herbicides manage only weedy turfs or broadleaf weeds, not both. Check out the label on the herbicide container to identify if the item will manage the type(s) of weeds in your turf. Typical grassy weeds in turf include crabgrass, foxtail, and quackgrass.

Pre-emergent herbicides are utilized to control weeds before they are visible, usually in early spring. Preemergent herbicides are used mostly for control of yearly weeds (weeds that live just 1 year) such as crabgrass.

Weed and feed products consist of both an herbicide and a fertilizer. Weed and feed products are appealing since it seems as if both weed control and fertility requirements can be achieved with one application.

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The post-emergent products frequently stop working to sufficiently manage weeds since the weeds soak up too little of the herbicide. When needed, utilize stand-alone preemergent herbicides to avoid problems of yearly weeds such as crabgrass.