Lawns are pretty tough, but they can still be damaged.
As common as they are, things like weeds, grubs, and even the wrong kind of fertilizer can harm your lawn.
Not only that, but things like excessive foot traffic, pet waste, and bad drainage can also take a toll.
“The best offense is a good defense” may not be the most original thing to say, but it’s true when it comes to your lawn.
Here are six common things that can damage your lawn, and what you can do to prevent or fix them.
1. Weeds
Weeds are not only unsightly, but they can also compete with your grass for nutrients and water. The best way to fight weeds is to prevent them from taking root in the first place. That means keeping your lawn healthy and thick so that weeds can’t get a foothold. It also means removing weeds as soon as you see them, before they have a chance to spread. This way, you can nip the problem in the bud and avoid having to use herbicides.
2. Grubs
Grubs are the larvae of Japanese beetles, European chafers, and other types of beetles. They feed on grass roots, which can damage your lawn and make it more susceptible to drought and disease. You may not see grubs themselves, but you’ll likely see the damage they’ve done if your lawn starts to brown and die in patches. The best way to fight grubs is to use a preventative insecticide in the early spring or late summer. You can also try to attract predators like birds and beneficial insects, which will help keep the grub population in check.
3. Fertilizer
Fertilizer is essential for a healthy lawn, but using too much of it can actually be detrimental. Too much fertilizer can burn your grass, making it yellow and patchy. It can also run off into waterways, where it can pollute the water and harm plants and animals. When you do fertilize, be sure to use the right amount and type for your lawn. And always follow the directions on the package.
4. Foot traffic
Too much foot traffic can compact the soil, making it difficult for grass roots to grow. This can cause your lawn to thin out and turn brown. To avoid this, try to limit foot traffic on your lawn as much as possible. If you have to walk on it, be sure to do so lightly and avoid wet or muddy areas.
Did you know that foot traffic isn’t the only thing that can compact soil? Vehicles can also do it! So, be sure to keep your lawn free of vehicles as well. Taking care of your lawn will help it last longer and look better.
5. Pet waste
Pet waste contains high levels of nitrogen, which can burn your grass and make it more susceptible to disease. It’s important to pick up after your pet right away, before the waste has a chance to seep into the soil. You may also want to consider fencing in a designated area for your pet to use the bathroom. This will help keep your lawn looking its best.
6. Poor drainage
If your lawn has poor drainage, it may become soggy, which is harmful to the grass and may even kill it. It is also possible for this to result in the growth of mold and mildew, both of which can be detrimental to the health of both your family and your grass. If your property has poor drainage, you might need to have a drainage system installed. This might be as straightforward as installing gutters on your house or excavating a trench all the way around your property’s edge.
Taking care of your lawn can be a lot of work, but it’s worth it! A healthy lawn is not only more attractive, but it’s also more resilient to pests and diseases. That’s why we recommend you reach out to professionals. Heroes Lawn Care experts are the ones you need for your lawn. By doing that, you can keep your lawn looking at its best for years to come.
The only important thing left to do is figure out how you’re going to mow that lawn! After all, a healthy lawn is only as good as its upkeep. So, get out there and start taking care of your lawn! It’ll be worth it in the end.
