The peak of summer heat is here – can your lawn handle it?
Throughout much of the country, the end of summer typically triggers the biggest heat wave of the year. At the height of a heat wave, everything can be impacted in some way − the air we breathe, the plants we grow, and the grass we walk on. Even our moods are affected. And, everywhere you turn, you’re told to mind your water usage. This only makes the extreme heat even…
What Kind of Oil Should I Use in My Lawn Mower? The safest bet when it comes to oil will always be to use the kind of oil your lawn mower manufacturer recommends in the operator or engine manual for your particular mower. While SAE 30 motor oil is commonly recommended for lawn mower engines, each engine manufacturer’s recommendation may be unique and might include recommendations based on your local climate. For these reasons, it is best to follow the…
Don’t Send Water Down the Drain Today’s irrigation systems include sophisticated controllers that allow you to easily adjust watering schedules to fit different needs. Here’s your guide to staying water-wise with your lawn all season long. How can I save water when watering my lawn? Be sure to set your sprinklers to water plants, not your driveway, sidewalk, patio or buildings. Keep in mind that different zones will almost always…
Anyone who’s tried to tackle lawn care in a blustery, wet spring knows that nothing can create lawn and mowing problems like heavy rain. Standing water, mud, and long, damp grasses provide less-than-ideal conditions for pulling out the mower. But it’s necessary because heavy rain can cause an equally heavy growth cycle. And of course, growth eventually needs to be cut down. There are ways to maintain your lawn even…
Start your spring season strong with a great cut from the start. Your mower will cut faster and deliver a better quality of cut with sharp blades, so make sure your blades are sharp! One of the top maintenance items for any rotary mower is to ensure blades are properly sharpened, balanced and in good working order. Why Sharp Blades Matter Think about the difference between the times you shave with…
You might be tempted to pull out the mower and start cutting down that new spring growth as soon as it appears. However, it’s best to step back and take a look at lawn conditions before you begin. The burst of healthy grass activity in spring will help keep your lawn lush and vibrant for the rest of the year. Use it wisely! By timing your mowing and seeding schedule…
Spring is a great time to take stock of your mower’s maintenance needs and get them taken care of before the growing season. That way, you’ll be ready to roll when the growth of your lawn hits full stride. Not only does a properly maintained mower perform better, but it will also last longer and be more reliable over the course of its life. Always consult your owner’s manual to determine what specific…
Saving water doesn’t have to involve the cost and inconvenience of tearing up your yard to install a new irrigation system. It’s easy to save water and reduce your utility bills with simple changes to your landscaping and gardening routine: 1. Landscape to Suit Your Lot Choose grass or plants that have low water requirements and will thrive in your local climate. Consider your lot’s exact features, including sun and…
Good-bye, winter. Spring is here and it’s finally time to put away your snow blower. We’ve compiled 5 simple steps below to help you take proper care of your snow blower now, so it’s ready for next winter. 5 Simple Steps to Get Your Snow Blower Ready for Off-Season Storage You may want to forget about all things winter, but a little time spent now can save you big headaches…