The Rocca Sisters Blog

It’s springtime, and for many homeowners, the lawn battle is starting to begin. We weed it, we mow it, we water it. All to get that perfect green carpet that looks so great on the golf course but is so tough to achieve at home.

With the recent passing of Earth Day and the incredible achievement of 100 Million Acts of Green, we thought it would be fitting to help our community do our part in helping the environment. Here are some useful tips to help you get a great-looking lawn… naturally.

Start with the soil
Check the quality by taking a handful and squeezing it. If it crumbles, add some nutrient-rich compost in spring and fall. If it’s sandy, add some humus to help it hold water. Check the pH too. Most garden centres offer this service. If it’s less than 6 or 7, add some lime.

Use the right grass
Clover and fescue are good for dry summers, and bluegrass and ryegrass are ideal for areas that get lots of sun. For shady spots, try fescue or a groundcover like periwinkle or pachysandra.

Feed it
Fertilize every spring and fall, and when you mow, leave clippings where they fall for added nitrogen, phosphate and potassium. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deeper root growth. Set up the sprinkler and let it do the watering for you every four to seven days.

Just a little off the top, please
Weeds can’t grow in the shade of tall grass. Setting your mower blade to about 3′ is an easy way to keep your lawn dense and healthy.

Give it some air
To improve drainage and help oxygen get into the soil, aerate by walking around in golf shoes. A spiked roller or aerator works too.

Free the soil
Your lawn gets clogged by tangled dry grass, roots and dead leaves that get between the soil and the living grass. Cut through it every fall with an inexpensive dethatching rake so your lawn gets the nutrients it needs.

Think beyond the blade
Add some clover next time you seed, and you’ll get a thicker, more richly textured lawn. Plus, if you get a few larger-leafed weeds growing, they won’t be as noticeable.

No room for Grass?
Fill a few pots on your balcony or patio with decorative grasses, flowers or herbs. It’s easy to take care of them naturally; use quality soil, water deeply every fourth day, and take advantage of the growing number of natural and organic products available at your local garden centre.
Whether you want a nice lawn, a pretty garden or some attractive landscaping, a great-looking exterior helps you enjoy your home and boost its value. If you would like any more tips on how to prepare your home for sale, don’t hesitate to contact us here at The Rocca Sisters office. We are always available to help you, your friends and your family get top dollar for your most valuable asset.