Applying fertilizer is one way to prevent the development of lawn diseases.
Lawn diseases can have a significant impact on your landscape. These diseases can also be difficult to control unless you know how to identify them and understand their causes. At Scientific Plant Service, our team members are trained to spot and treat these problems. We also know the best ways for property owners to prevent the development of lawn diseases so they can avoid turf conditions that contribute to turf loss and other damage. The following lawn care practices can help you avoid the negative impact of various lawn diseases.
Maintain an Optimal Soil pH Level
Most grasses prefer slightly acidic soil, between 6.5 and 7 on the pH scale. This range is where essential nutrients stay readily available in the soil and can be used by the individual plants. Regular soil testing (every 3 years) and applying any necessary soil amendments can help you maintain this optimal pH.
Proper Fertilization
Under fertilizing your lawn will leave your grass hungry, and over-fertilizing can promote weak, rushed growth. Both of those conditions promote the development of lawn diseases. Proper timing of fertilization can also promote certain diseases. When you do fertilize, use premium products that release the essential nutrients at the correct levels at the correct time. At Scientific Plant Service, we use our custom blended fertilizer that uses POLYON technology combined with properly timed herbicide applications to promote a thriving lawn.
Water Your Lawn
Watering your lawn appropriately is key to promoting its health and resiliency. Irrigate early in the morning when evaporation rates are low, and the emerging sun speeds up drying time. Water deeply once or twice a week to encourage strong, drought-tolerant roots. You should also adjust your irrigation system to account for rainfall or drought. Irrigation systems need to be monitored to ensure they are functioning properly without any leaks in the pipes or damaged nozzles.
Follow the Best Mowing Practices
You should always mow at heights recommended for your grass type. Keep your mower blades sharp, and mow according to your grass growth, not the calendar. Only a third of the grass height should be removed at a time to avoid cutting too short and damaging the turf.
Dethatch and Aerate Your Lawn Regularly
Thatch up to ½-inch thick can act like beneficial mulch but amounts beyond that can restrict water and air and encourage the development of lawn diseases. Compact soil can have the same negative impact. You can reduce compaction with regular soil aeration and dethatch your lawn as needed so that air, sun, and moisture can nourish your soil.
The key to preventing lawn diseases is always ensuring your turf is at its healthiest. Healthy grass will also be resilient and less vulnerable to lawn diseases. If you suspect a lawn disease has developed, contact the experts at Scientific Plant Service to address the problem.
Scientific Plant Service Is Your Go-To Source In Landscape Healthcare
Scientific Plant Service, located in Baltimore, is a privately owned corporation, chartered in Maryland in 1957 by Frank J. Burke. We started as a full-service Arborists specializing in the care of shade trees and ornamental shrubs, but today we are a Lawn Care company that is a huge part of the community. From aquatic environments and snow management to deer and mole control, SPS has services tailored specifically for your lawn and landscape.
We offer services in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia, including: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Calvert counties in MD, as well as Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church in VA. For more information, contact us online, or call us at 410-321-0970. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.