Bement, IL Lawn Care Plans

Living in Bement, IL, you're likely familiar with our unique Midwestern weather patterns. This climate greatly influences the best practices for lawn care in our area. The key to maintaining a lush, green lawn is understanding the local soil type, knowing when to perform certain tasks, and being consistent with care.

Bement is primarily composed of silty clay loam soil, which retains water well but can become compacted over time. To prevent compaction and ensure your grass has access to vital nutrients, consider aerating your lawn in early spring or fall. This will create channels for air, water, and fertilizer to reach the grass roots more effectively.

Mowing is an essential part of lawn care that should be done weekly during the peak growing season. In Bement, this typically starts in late spring and continues through early fall. Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to avoid stressing the grass. Adjust your mower height throughout the season; shorter in the spring and fall, and slightly longer during the hot summer months to help shade and cool the soil.

Watering is another crucial task, and while Bement doesn’t have specific water restrictions, it's advisable to water your lawn deeply and infrequently. Early morning is the best time to water to reduce evaporation and prevent the growth of fungus. Fertilizing should be done in the spring and fall. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer to feed the lawn gradually.

If you’re considering reseeding, fall is the ideal time. The mild temperatures and regular rainfall in neighborhoods like Bodman and Macon provide the perfect conditions for seed germination. Similarly, if you notice your lawn has developed a layer of thatch (dead grass and roots) thicker than half an inch, fall is also the best time to dethatch.

Whether you live near the Bryant Cottage State Historic Site or closer to Veteran’s Park, these simple, actionable tips will help you maintain a beautiful lawn year-round in Bement, IL.