Metropolis, IL Lawn Care Plans

Caring for your lawn in Metropolis, IL can be a rewarding experience if you know what you're doing. The temperate climate and rich soil of our region, from East Metropolis to West Metropolis, are ideal for growing lush, green grass. However, maintaining a beautiful lawn involves more than just regular mowing. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your lawn in Metropolis, IL.

Mowing is the most basic and frequent form of lawn care. It's best to mow your lawn when the grass is dry and to keep the blade height around 2.5-3 inches. This prevents the growth of weeds and allows the grass to develop a deep root system, which is essential for a healthy lawn. As a rule of thumb, never cut more than a third of the grass blade at once to avoid stressing the grass.

Fertilizing is another key aspect of lawn care. In Metropolis, the soil is a mix of clay and loam, which is generally nutrient-rich but can compact easily. This makes it necessary to fertilize your lawn at least twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer with a balance of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. This will provide your grass with the nutrients it needs to grow thick and green.

Watering your lawn correctly is crucial too, especially during the dry summer months. The best time to water is early morning, so the water has time to soak into the soil before the heat of the day evaporates it. Aim for about an inch of water per week, including rainfall, to ensure your grass stays hydrated. Remember, it's better to water deeply and infrequently than shallowly and often.

Seeding, aerating, and dethatching are other important aspects of lawn care. Aerating should be done in the spring or fall, using a lawn aerator to remove plugs of soil and allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Dethatching involves removing the layer of dead grass and debris that can build up on the surface of your lawn, which should be done in late spring or early fall. Seeding should be done in early fall or spring, using a high-quality seed mix that is suitable for your lawn's specific conditions.

Whether you live near Fort Massac State Park or in the heart of Metropolis, these lawn care tips can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful lawn that you can enjoy year-round.