Wilmington, NC Lawn Care Plans

Caring for your lawn in Wilmington, NC, is a year-round commitment that can be rewarding when done correctly. The region's warm, humid summers and mild winters create an ideal environment for many types of grass, but it also presents some unique challenges that homeowners should be aware of. Lawn care practices such as mowing, fertilizing, seeding, watering, aerating, and dethatching are all essential for maintaining a healthy lawn.

Mowing is a weekly task during the growing season, typically from April to October. The general rule of thumb is to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing. In neighborhoods like Landfall or Porters Neck, homeowners often maintain their Bermuda or St. Augustine grass at a height of 2 to 3 inches.

Fertilizing should be done in early spring, late spring, and fall. This is when your grass is growing and can most benefit from the nutrients. Wilmington's dominant soil type is sandy, which drains quickly but doesn't hold onto nutrients well. Therefore, a slow-release granular fertilizer is most beneficial.

Seeding is best done in the fall, giving the grass time to establish before the heat of summer. Remember to water newly seeded areas daily until germination occurs. Watering, in general, should be done early in the morning, allowing the water to penetrate the soil before the heat of the day causes it to evaporate.

Lastly, aerating and dethatching are two tasks that are often overlooked but can significantly improve the health of your lawn. Aerating should be done in the spring or fall, which helps to break up compacted soil and allows water, nutrients, and oxygen to reach the grass roots more effectively. Dethatching removes the layer of dead grass and roots that can build up over time, preventing water and nutrients from reaching the soil.

Remember, while Wilmington's parks like Greenfield Lake Park and Halyburton Park may inspire your lawn care goals, each lawn is unique. Start with these general recommendations but adjust based on your lawn's specific needs. Happy gardening!