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Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding The Fundamentals of Proper Lawn/Tree Care
Why Should I Aerate My Lawn?
Aerating plays a substantial part in a healthy turf. Core aerating is manually removing small plugs of soil and thatch from the lawn. Spike aerating is poking holes into the soil. Both are efficient ways to aerate. Whichever one you chose, it allows oxygen and water to easily reach the turfs root system and allows soil to better absorb nutrients. It also loosens up compacted soil making it easier for grass to root deeper and reach nutrient rich soil. Aerating is recommended to be done annually in the spring or fall. Depending on the amount of foot traffic it may need to be done a couple times a year. It is also encouraged to over seed at this time.
What Is Proper Grass Height?
Customers often ask how high or low the grass should be. The answer is simple depending on grass type. Grass type is broken down into two groups, Cool-season grass and warm-Season Grass. Cool season grass such as Kentucky Bluegrass in the peak of the season should range from 3" - 4" in length. Warm-season grass such as Zoysia grass should range from 1" - 3" in length. In the event of a drought, the grass should be left a little longer and/or mowed bi-weekly to prevent burning out the turf.
Why De-Thatching is Necessary?
Thatch is a layer of dead grass, tangled roots and other matter that build up over time. Although a thin layer of thatch is good for the soil and protecting the roots too much can prevent water and oxygen from reaching the soil and creates a sanctuary for various insects. . De-thatching is usually done in the spring to allow grass to grow and thicken for the summer season.
Is It Okay To Top A Tree?
It is not okay to top trees. Topping consists of large branch cuts and the removal of most of the tree's foliage leaving the branches vulnerable for sun scald. In addition topping leads to insect invasion, disease and decay. This could eventually kill the tree.
What Is Proper Pruning?
Pruning can promote healthy growth, increase safety and accessibility, and enhance the tree's aesthetic appeal. Proper pruning involves making clean cuts just outside the branch collar, removing dead, damaged, diseased or deformed branches. Remove branches that rub or cross each other, as well as suckers or side shoots from the base of the tree. Removing lower limbs to expose more trunk is also healthy. When pruning you want to follow the 1/3 rule, which means removing one-third of the total height or number of branches. If you remove more than 30% of the plant, you increase the trees chances of disease or death
When Is The Best Time To Prune?
Most trees can be pruned all year long with the exception of Fruit Trees. Fruit Trees should be pruned during the winter months when they are dormant. Summer pruning in late July or August is another time when pruning can be performed, but severe pruning at this time will weaken the tree
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