As a first-time homeowner, you likely want to find ways to better care for your yard. If you’re like many others, you want to do it all yourself – thus saving money and improving your home.
But, yard care can seem like a daunting task that requires special equipment and requires heavy amounts of dirt and mud.
Keep reading for some basic yard care tips and tricks that can help you get your yard looking great.
1. Develop a Plan
This plan should include what type of grass you have, what type of fertilizer and seed you need, how often you need to mow and water your lawn, and what type of care you need to provide for your bushes and trees.
Before you start digging or planting, take a good look at your yard and imagine what you want it to look like. Then, make a sketch of your plan. This will help you determine how much work you’ll need to do and what materials you’ll need to get the job done.
2. Find the Right Tools
Start with the basics—a lawn mower, rake, and hose—and build from there. Keep your lawn mower in good shape by sharpening the blades at least once a season.
A lawn that is mowed with dull blades will have a brown, ragged appearance. Rake leaves and other debris from your lawn on a regular basis to have a healthy lawn that looks its best.
3. Maintain Your Lawn
You should mow your lawn regularly, and make sure to not cut the grass too short. Doing so can damage the blades and make your lawn more susceptible to disease. You should fertilize your lawn in the spring and fall to help it stay green and healthy.
Be sure to mow on a regular basis and in a pattern so that you do not create bare spots. Be sure to also trim trees around your area. There are tree trimming services that can help you do the job.
4. Watering Your Lawn
This means watering your lawn at least once a week and making sure each time that the water penetrates at least 6 inches into the soil. To test this, insert a screwdriver or similar object into the ground after watering; if it goes in easily, you’re good. If not, give it more time.
In hot weather, you may need to water more often.
5. Caring for Your Flowers and Shrubs
Make sure to choose plants that are appropriate for your climate and soil type. Once you have your plants, prepare the soil before planting. This will help your plants to thrive.
Pay attention to the amount of sun and shade each plant needs to thrive. Water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can also be detrimental.
Fertilize your plants to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need to grow. Also, don’t forget to deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Spare Some Time to Do Yard Care
Make sure that your yard is looking its best and is also safe for you and your family. Some of the tasks that you may need to do include mowing the lawn, trimming the hedges, and picking up any debris. Yard care can be time-consuming, but it is worth it in the end.
If you’re looking for more articles and advice on taking care of your lawn, check out the rest of our blog!
