Soil compaction can be the result of too much foot traffic, repeated flooding, and anything that kills off microorganisms naturally found in healthy soils. Once the microorganisms have been depleted, the ground is no longer healthy and turns into a waste-land. Only the most robust plants can live here, which in our lawns, are weeds.

Always mow grass to the proper height using a lawn mower with a sharp blade. Never cut off more than ⅓ of the grass blade when mowing. Grass needs the surface area of the blade to sustain itself. Removing too much of the blade creates an environment ripe for disease. Never blow grass clippings onto the street. They will end up in the storm sewer and only add additional nutrients to streams and rivers already overloaded with minerals from run-off.

Sharpen your lawn mower blade once or twice per mowing season, with frequency depending on factors like lawn size and mowing conditions. Regularly inspect the grass for signs of uneven cuts or fraying, indicators that it’s time for blade maintenance. A sharp blade ensures a healthier lawn, prevents stress on the mower engine, and enhances fuel efficiency. Always follow safety precautions when removing and sharpening the blade.

No, a lawn cannot survive without sunlight. Grass needs sunlight for photosynthesis, a vital process for growth and energy production. While some grass varieties tolerate partial shade, they still require a significant amount of sunlight. In extreme cases of limited sunlight, alternative landscaping options or artificial turf may be more suitable.