Keeping your lawn care organic makes sense. Think about it. You won’t be using harsh chemicals on your lawn, which helps the environment. You also will be creating a healthy, safe place for you and your family. By taking care of your lawn naturally, you really can make a difference.
Growing a healthy lawn can be challenging even if you use chemicals. After all, when it comes to nature, anything can happen. When you decide to forego the chemicals and care for your lawn organically, you may need to experiment a little to see what works best for your lawn.
To make sure your dirt measures up it is a good idea to have the pH level of your soil tested. Usually grass grows best in soil that has a pH level of around 6.5. If the level is higher it may encourage certain weeds. Check with your local county as to where to get your soil tested professionally.
Most counties have extension offices of state agricultural schools. If you have any questions about your lawn, a quick phone call to them can be very helpful. To locate the office nearest you look in the blue pages of the phone book.
While we are on the subject of soil, one way to see if your soil is in good health is to make sure it contains earthworms. If earthworms are thriving that indicates healthy soil. Earthworms are important to lawns (and gardens) as they help to replenish the soil. By keeping your lawn organic, you will encourage earthworms to flourish by providing them a chemically free environment.
Fertilizing is one important measure you can take to keep your lawn healthy. There are many organic fertilizers on the market to choose from. Although these fertilizers may be more expensive than chemical brands, they are well worth it. They provide important nutrients to your lawn and help to fight disease. The usual recommendation is a dose of fertilizer in the spring and one in the fall unless your yard is in particularly bad shape. In that case you may need to apply more fertilizer to bring your lawn back to health.
Composting is also important in maintaining your lawn. It will not only encourage healthy grass but will entice earthworms to take up residence in your yard. Compost can be made on your own (in a compost pile or bin) or be purchased from the store. Store bought compost is usually cow, sheep or chicken manure. Compost should be spread twice a year in the summer months.
Another suggestion to keep your lawn green is to set your mower to cut at a height of 3-4 inches. This simple suggestion can help your lawn in many ways. Having longer grass will prevent the soil from becoming dried out by the sun. Longer grass may also prevent weeds from invading your lawn by starving them from the sunshine they need to grow. Be sure to leave the clippings on the lawn after you mow, they will act as a natural fertilizer and it won’t cost you a penny.
Instead of using pesticides to kill bugs, why not let nature take over? Encourage birds to move into your yard. You may want to put up birdhouses, hang a birdfeeder or make room for a birdbath to attract feathered friends. Then just sit back and let them do what comes naturally – eat bugs. Another way to combat the problem is by purchasing insects that eat other insects (available at some garden supply stores). One insect that is well known for this is the Preying Mantis. It is also a good idea to remove any debris in your yard that may be attracting lawn pests.
Your lawn needs about an inch of water each time you water it. You will probably need to water about once a week, unless it rains. If you water too often you may encourage weeds, as some weeds thrive on frequent watering schedules. If you only water when the grass seems to need it, it will help your grass to develop a healthier root system. Healthy roots are vital if you want your lawn to flourish. Make sure to water early in the day to discourage the growth of fungus, which could become a problem if you water too near the evening.
The next problem you need to deal with is weeds. Weeds don’t discriminate. They’ll grow anywhere it seems, even in the middle of your lawn. Just when you think you’ve gotten rid of them -- they’re back. The best way to look at weed control is to view it as a work in progress. You can either attempt to control weeds by pulling them out by the roots or by using organic products to discourage these lawn spoilers from squatting in your yard. Another way to tackle weed control is by giving your grass the edge by sprinkling grass seed generously. Not only will this fill in bare spots - it just may prevent weeds from taking over.
Once your lawn starts to shape up you may want to invite a few friends over. Let them enjoy an afternoon frolicking in all that beautiful grass. After all, your lawn is free from chemicals. It is a healthy, vibrant, thriving field of green. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even inspire someone else to go organic.
