Homeowners who are looking to increase their property values have more to think about than just structural renovations. Land, in both amount and appearance, is a vital part of any property’s worth. Regular lawn maintenance will result in grass that has been properly manicured, irrigated, and treated for mosquitoes.
Know How (and When) to Mow
Mowers have certain cutting deck adjustment levels that can vary by season. In the summer, the cutting deck should be set higher to allow for longer grass. In the fall, a lowered cutting deck would accommodate grass that grows slower and shorter. Instead of mowing in the same diagonal or vertical rows each time, consider alternating patterns and directions to prevent ruts and compacted soil.
Short grass doesn’t necessarily mean it’s healthy, especially if it has been cut too frequently and soil is exposed (sometimes referred to as “scalping”). Root systems can be damaged, and the resulting patches of soil provide spaces for weed seedlings to thrive. Instead of relying on weekly schedules or weather patterns, let grass grow to about ankle-height before giving it a trim.
Irrigation Is Incredibly Important
Watering grass with a standard sprinkler or lawn hose is only a quick hydration fix during hot, arid weather. In addition to unequal ground covering, standard watering methods can also make water bills more costly than necessary. Irrigation as part of a lawn maintenance program is both convenient and cost-effective.
Irrigation systems can be programmed to work on their own, eliminating the manual component and freeing up time. Since these systems are designed to provide equal distribution of water throughout the landscape, homeowners don’t have to worry about watering too often or not enough. Installing trenchless irrigation minimizes what otherwise could be an expensive disruption to a lawn by eliminating the need to re-seed and replace tracts of grass.
Generally, it’s best to allow the irrigation system to work once a day during the week in the early morning hours (before sunrise) throughout the hottest part of the summer. As the weather transitions and becomes fall, the irrigation system should only work once every other day or so. Observing the grass for sogginess or wilting is key to adjusting the schedule.
Safely Manage the Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes dwell in vegetation such as shrubs and trees. Certain lawn maintenance precautions, such as eliminating hideaways by regularly trimming branches and low foliage, can lower their numbers. Another option is to replace standard outdoor lighting sources with what are known as “bug lights,” which are opaque, yellow light bulbs that emit wavelengths that will repel mosquitoes (and other insects).
Spraying is one of the more widely used procedures for mosquito removal. Both traditional pesticide and organic sprays are available, with the latter being preferable for those with pets and children. Sprays can repel mosquitoes for up to a month before needing to be reapplied.
Once the correct lawn maintenance program has been established, homeowners can rest assured that their property is safer, greener, and more valuable.
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