It is apparent to most home-owners that Vancouver lawn care can be difficult. Given the local climate and regular usage most residential lawns suffer from compaction (through pet and human traffic, snow and rain), thatch build-up and lack of micro-organism activity with the soil. Combine this with a lack of time, perceived upkeep costs, and available machinery and knowledge, it is no wonder that many lawns around the city look past their best.
Many residents simply do not have the time to put into their lawns. Given the correct approach, information and tools, lawn care in Vancouver, either by the owner or a paid company, can be far simpler and cheaper than one would realize.
6 Vancouver Spring Lawn Care Tips
Here are some brief lawn care tips to help you get your lawn off to a great start this Spring:
Cutting Height
Height of 2.5 to 3 inches is the recommended height to promote long a root system and a healthy plant. This will also ensure the grass fights off other dominant plants weeds.
Cutting Frequency
It is highly recommended that you do not cut more than 1/3 of a grass blade at one time. Cut grass frequently and mow high. Use a push mower to save energy, get fit and decrease pollution.
Fertilization
Fertilization is a vital part of maintaining a healthy lawn. With strong grass other weeds will be forced out. Fertilize in May, early June and September with a “slow-release” fertilizer. Use organic fertilizer if possible and top dress with a thin layer of compost and sand. Over-reliance on “quick-release” fertilizer will speed up growth and has negative connotations for the environment.
Watering
It is important to give your lawn the correct amount of water to maintain its health. Your lawn requires deep watering of about one inch, each week. Leave two small tuna cans around the lawn when watering, when the cans are full then optimum watering has been achieved. Watering less and more often will promote shallow root growth.
It is important to give your lawn the correct amount of water to maintain its health. Your lawn requires deep watering of about one inch, or one hour, each week. Leave two small tin cans around the lawn when watering, when the cans are full then optimum watering has been achieved. Watering less and more often will promote shallow root growth.
Aeration
This is a vital process that can be achieved by a lawn care company with a 350 pound machine aerator, or by hand to save money. Aeration should be undertaken in May and September. This process, especially effective given Vancouver’s wet climate, will reduce soil compaction, reduce water-run off and puddling, increase fertilize uptake, and improve rooting, thatch breakdown and resiliency. This takes some effort if doing by hand but will produce a healthier, stronger and more attractive lawn.
Seeding
Over-seeding in Spring provides variety in your lawn and makes the area more resilient and drought and disease-resistant. This will rejuvenate your lawn without the necessity of expensive and environmentally damaging re-turfing.
If you do not have the time or the inclination to manage your lawn, we offer 4 effective lawn care packages. These packages all include important services to ensure healthy grass in Vancouver’s unique coastal climate like Lawn Aeration, Lawn Fertilization, Moss Spray and Lime.
