Make Your Neighbors Green with Envy

Lawn Maintenance – Preventing Weeds and Fertilizing New Sod

Having a lush, green lawn that's the envy of the neighborhood is a wonderful feeling. And the process of maintaining it can be just as enjoyable! While it does require some effort, it's a labor of love that will pay off in the end.

Don't worry, though - you don't have to do it all yourself. There are plenty of vendors who can help you with the parts you don't want to tackle.

Weed prevention and fertilization on established lawns

Please Note: Weed control and fertilization is different for new yards. Be sure to tell your vendors that your yard is new when getting an estimate.

One of the first steps is weed control. It's important to start early, around mid-February, with a pre-emergent application. If you hire a weed control company, they can set up a plan of service for the entire year, so you don't have to worry about it. They'll treat your lawn five or six times a year, depending on your specific needs. There are many local companies to choose from, so take the time to find the one that's right for you. 

Andrea Nance, director of customer care at Ideal Homes & Neighborhoods, has some advice: “Remember, the most expensive isn’t necessarily the best. Lots of companies offer new customer specials, too. And be sure to check with your neighbors … if their lawns are weed-free and pristine, that may be a good fit for your service. It’s also a boost to that company to have lawns in the same neighborhood!”

These weed prevention companies offer free quotes, and some have specials for first-time customers. Find your best deal by shopping around!

• TruGreen
• AgriLawn
• Elite Lawn Care
• Weed Man

“Keep in mind, too, that in small areas weed control can be accomplished simply by hand pulling,” says Nance. You have to be careful with newly established turf and herbicides.

Sources:

Oklahoma State University Turfgrass Program

Marcum’s Nursery