Columbia, MO Lawn Care Plans

Lawn care in Columbia, MO is a year-round commitment that requires knowledge of the local climate, soil types, and best practices for maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. With neighborhoods like The Grasslands, Old Hawthorne, and Thornbrook, the importance of a well-kept lawn cannot be overstated. The soil in Columbia, MO is predominantly clay, which has its own unique care needs.

The first crucial step in lawn care is regular mowing. In Columbia, due to the humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, it's recommended to mow your lawn at least once a week during the growing season, typically from late spring to early fall. Ensure to set your mower's blade high, leaving the grass about 3 inches tall to help it develop a deep root system and resist pests and diseases.

Fertilizing is another crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy lawn. Given the local weather conditions, the best times to fertilize your lawn in Columbia are in the early spring and late fall. Use a slow-release, granular fertilizer that feeds the lawn slowly over time. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bag for the best results.

Seeding and watering go hand in hand in lawn care. In Columbia, the best time to seed your lawn is in the fall, allowing the seeds to germinate before the winter freeze. When it comes to watering, do so deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Usually, watering once a week is enough, but during dry spells, your lawn might need more.

Lastly, aerating and dethatching are important procedures to consider, especially for clay soil common in Columbia. Aeration should be done in the fall or spring, helping to alleviate soil compaction and improve water and nutrient absorption. Dethatching, on the other hand, should be done when the thatch layer exceeds half an inch, usually in the early spring or late fall.

Taking care of your lawn in Columbia, MO means more than just a beautiful home. It means contributing to the overall aesthetic of our beautiful city, whether it's a house near Rock Bridge Memorial State Park or Stephens Lake Park. Remember, a well-kept lawn is not just pleasing to the eye, but also enhances the quality of our environment.