• Home
• Lawn Care Tips
• Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make with Lawn Care (and How to Avoid Them)

Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make with Lawn Care (and How to Avoid Them)

A beautiful lawn is every homeowner's dream, but achieving and maintaining it requires proper care and attention. Unfortunately, some common lawn care mistakes can hinder your yard's health and appearance. Here are the top five mistakes homeowners make and how to avoid them for a lush, thriving lawn.

1. Overwatering Your Lawn

Overwatering is one of the most common lawn care mistakes. Too much water drowns the grass roots, leading to fungal growth and shallow root systems. Instead of watering daily, aim for deep, infrequent watering sessions to encourage strong root growth. Most lawns only need about 1-1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.

2. Improper Mowing Techniques

Many homeowners either mow too short or let their grass grow too long. Cutting the grass too short, also known as "scalping," weakens it and makes it more susceptible to weeds and disease. On the other hand, overly long grass can harbor pests. To avoid this, never remove more than one-third of the grass blade height during a mowing session. Keep your mower blades sharp and maintain an appropriate lawn mowing schedule based on your grass type. For optimal results, always hire a professional for grass cutting.

3. Ignoring Aeration

Neglecting aeration can lead to compacted soil, preventing air, water, and nutrients from reaching the grass roots. Aeration involves perforating the soil to improve its health and boost grass growth. Perform aeration at least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall, to ensure your lawn remains healthy and resilient.

4. Skipping Seasonal Lawn Care Adjustments

Failing to adapt your lawn care routine to the seasons can harm your grass. For example, neglecting to fertilize in the fall may leave your lawn undernourished for winter. Similarly, over-fertilizing in summer can burn the grass. Tailor your care plan to the season, including proper fertilization, mowing, and watering practices, to keep your lawn thriving year-round.

5. Overlooking Weed and Pest Control

Weeds and pests can quickly take over if left unchecked. Ignoring these issues weakens your grass and disrupts its growth. Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of weeds and pests, and address them with appropriate treatments. Preventative care, such as healthy mowing practices and timely fertilization, can also minimize infestations.

By avoiding these common mistakes and implementing proper lawn care techniques, you'll create a lush, healthy lawn that enhances your home's curb appeal and provides a beautiful outdoor space for your family to enjoy. Call Anderson Lawn Care for the best results for lawn care in the Overland Park area.