Unfortunately, those gorgeous lush, green lawns don’t happen by themselves, and they don’t just get that way from regular mowing. Aeration and fertilization are crucial components of essential Pepper Pike, OH, lawn care.
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What is fertilizer and how does it work?
In order for plants to live and thrive, they need air, sun, nutrition, and water. The goal of nutrition in the form of fertilizer is to cause plants to grow faster and bigger, producing a healthy root and leaf. Fertilizer is a nutrient that all plants need to thrive because the soil cannot supply all of the macronutrients that the grass needs to grow thick and lush.
Composed of three nutrients—phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen—in a balanced formula, fertilizer provides the food grass needs to grow. Phosphorus encourages root development and increases the size of the leaf, especially as the grass first begins to grow. Potassium is necessary for plant functions such as photosynthesis, as well as fortifying the plant against drought and disease. Nitrogen is the nutrient that is used in the highest amount as it fuels fast growth.
When should you fertilize?
Fertilizer should be applied in several installments throughout the year—in the spring as the new growth begins, in the summer before the hot weather arrives, in early fall to boost fall green-up, and in the late fall to give your grass food for the dormant winter months.
What is aeration?
Over time, soil becomes compacted, and the air, sunlight, and water cannot reach the roots of the grass as well as it should. This is where aeration comes in. Aeration is the process of perforating the soil with small holes where the soil is pulled out to expose the roots to the essential elements for growth.
These small holes can hold the new grass seed in protected pockets so that it has a chance to sprout before winter weather arrives. The holes allow more water to penetrate the roots, as well as increased sunlight and nutrition in the form of fertilizer. The increased air circulation is a boon to the tender roots.
Typically done in the fall or very early spring, aeration is followed by spreading new grass seed and regular watering until it sprouts.
When should you consult a professional?
Too much fertilizer can actually burn your grass, so applications should be made in the correct ratios and at the right times of the year for maximum growth. Both fertilizer and aeration can revitalize your yard, but they must be timed correctly.
A lawn care professional has the equipment and training to bring out the best in your landscape. Considering how the climate affects the grass, they can keep drought or a rainy season from ruining all of your hard work.
When you search for a lawn care specialist, look for one who understands that every Pepper Pike, OH, turf is different, and landscape features vary from one location to another. This is why a plan that is tailored specifically to your lawn should be the gold standard.
Look for exceptional customer service, unparalleled professionalism, and the longevity of the business. With a customized plan of care for your lawn, they can keep your turf in tip-top shape no matter the season.
