Carthage, SD Lawn Care Plans

Proper lawn care in Carthage, SD, can be a rewarding hobby that also adds to the curb appeal of your home. Given the local climate and soil conditions, there are particular steps you should follow to ensure your lawn remains lush and healthy throughout the year.

Mowing is one of the most fundamental tasks in lawn care. In neighborhoods like Park Place and Meadow Brook, you'll want to ensure that your grass is never cut too short, as this can put stress on the grass and make it more susceptible to disease. Set your mower's height to about 3 inches, which will also help shade the soil and decrease water evaporation.

Fertilizing is another crucial aspect of lawn care. The best time to fertilize your lawn in Carthage is in the early fall and late spring. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer specifically designed for the type of grass you have. If your soil is clay-based, like much of the soil in South Dakota, it may benefit from the addition of organic matter to improve its texture and nutrient content.

Seeding and watering are also important. If you notice bare spots in your lawn, late summer or early fall is the ideal time for seeding. As for watering, given Carthage's semi-arid climate, it's crucial to water your lawn deeply and infrequently. Aim for 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Remember to follow any local water restrictions.

Lastly, aerating and dethatching can help maintain a healthy lawn. Aerating helps loosen compacted soil and should be performed in the early spring or fall, while dethatching, which involves removing excess layers of thatch (dead grass and roots), should be done in late spring or early fall.

By following these tips, you're sure to have a lawn that's the envy of your neighbors, whether you're in the heart of downtown Carthage or out by Lake Carthage.