1) Water deeply (1–1.5 in/week), early morning only.
2) Mow higher (3–3.5 in) to shade soil.
3) Keep mower blades sharp.
4) Spot stress early (lingering footprints).
5) Use light, slow-release feeding in heat.
Summer heat can be tough on grass, but with the right care, your lawn can stay green and healthy. Here’s how to water efficiently, mow correctly, and spot stress early…
Read more1) Water deeply (1–1.5 in/week), early morning only.
2) Mow higher (3–3.5 in) to shade soil.
3) Keep mower blades sharp.
4) Spot stress early (lingering footprints).
5) Use light, slow-release feeding in heat.
Mulch suppresses weeds, conserves moisture, and feeds the soil. Learn which mulch to use in south-central PA and how to apply it without smothering roots…
Read more1) Choose the right mulch: hardwood bark for trees/shrubs, shredded leaves or straw for gardens, pine bark nuggets for long-term coverage.
2) Maintain a 2–3 inch depth to retain moisture without suffocating roots.
3) Keep mulch 2–3 inches away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent rot and pest issues.
4) Refresh faded or compacted mulch annually to maintain performance and appearance.
5) Avoid dyed mulches in vegetable gardens—they can leach unwanted chemicals into the soil.
Aeration, overseeding, leaf cleanup, and proper fall feeding set your lawn up for success. Use this simple checklist to prep before the first frost…
Read more1) Aerate compacted areas to improve root growth and water penetration.
2) Overseed thin spots using a cool-season grass blend suitable for your region.
3) Apply a balanced, slow-release fall fertilizer to strengthen roots before winter dormancy.
4) Remove thick layers of fallen leaves to prevent mold and smothering.
5) Check soil pH and amend with lime if necessary for optimal grass health in spring.