Ridgewood, NJ Lawn Care Plans

Lawn care in Ridgewood, NJ, like in any other place, is a combination of science, art, and consistent commitment. The secret to a lush and healthy lawn is understanding the local climate, soil type, and dedicating time to lawn care activities such as mowing, fertilizing, seeding, watering, aerating, and dethatching.

Given the temperate climate of Ridgewood, NJ, the best time to start your lawn care activities is early spring. This is the perfect time to give your lawn a good clean-up, rake away any winter debris, and dethatch your lawn. This process will remove thatch – a layer of dead grass and organic material that accumulates on top of the soil, preventing water and nutrients from reaching the grass roots.

When it comes to mowing, it's crucial to follow the one-third rule: never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at once. This practice ensures that your grass remains healthy and reduces the chances of developing any diseases. The ideal mowing height for most lawns in Ridgewood, especially in neighborhoods like Upper Ridgewood or Somerville, is about 2.5 to 3 inches.

Fertilizing is another important aspect of lawn care. In Ridgewood, it's advisable to fertilize your lawn in late spring or early summer when the grass is actively growing. Use a slow-release fertilizer that feeds your lawn over time rather than all at once. When it comes to watering, the local soil type should guide you. Ridgewood's loamy soil, which is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, retains water well but also drains sufficiently, so watering your lawn once or twice a week should be adequate.

Aeration and overseeding should ideally take place in the fall. Aeration involves making small holes in the lawn to allow water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots, helping them grow deeply and produce a stronger, more vigorous lawn. After aeration, overseed your lawn to fill in any thin spots and ensure a thick, healthy lawn come spring.

Remember, every lawn in Ridgewood, NJ, whether it's overlooking the beautiful Saddle River County Park or nestled in the serene neighborhood of Heights, can thrive with the right care and attention. By understanding the local climate, soil type, and by dedicating some time each week to these lawn care activities, you can enjoy a lush, green, and healthy lawn all year round.