Watchung, NJ Lawn Care Plans

Taking care of your lawn in Watchung, NJ, requires a year-round commitment and understanding of the local climate and soil conditions. Our area is known for its unique combination of sandy loam and clay soils, which can present challenges but also opportunities for a lush, green lawn. Whether you live in the quiet neighborhoods of Sky Top Drive or the scenic areas around Best Lake, maintaining a beautiful garden contributes to the overall charm of our community.

Mowing is obviously a weekly ritual during the growing season. However, it's crucial to set your mower at the correct height. In Watchung, we recommend a mowing height of around 3 to 3.5 inches. This helps crowd out weeds and allows the grass to develop a deep root system, which is particularly important during our hot, dry summers. It's also advisable to leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing, as they return valuable nutrients to the soil.

Fertilizing your lawn is another critical aspect of lawn care. In Watchung, the best times to fertilize are in early spring and late fall. Using a slow-release, granular fertilizer will provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you notice moss in your lawn, it may be a sign of acidic soil. Applying lime can help balance the pH level of the soil.

Watering is something that needs to be done carefully given the local climate. Early morning is the best time to water your lawn, as this reduces evaporation. As far as frequency, it's better to water deeply and less frequently, about once or twice a week, to encourage deeper root growth.

Aerating and dethatching are also beneficial, especially if your lawn sees heavy use or has compacted soil. Aeration involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. This helps the roots grow deeply and produce a stronger, more vigorous lawn. The best time to aerate your lawn in Watchung is during the growing season, when the grass can heal and fill in any open areas after soil plugs are removed.

Finally, don't forget about seeding. Overseeding in the fall can help fill in any thin spots in your lawn and introduce new, disease-resistant grass varieties. Remember to water regularly after seeding to ensure good seed-to-soil contact and germination.

By following these lawn care tips, you'll be well on your way to having a beautiful lawn that enhances your home and contributes to our community's natural beauty.