Maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn in Florida is a year-round job that involves a lot of work and understanding. Whether you’re a new homeowner or have been living in the Sunshine State for years, there are certain terms that you should know to help you communicate with lawn care experts or understand what’s being done to your lawn. Let’s explore some essential lawn terminology that every homeowner should know:
- pH Level: pH level refers to the soil’s acidity level on a scale of 1 to 14, with 7 being neutral. A pH level of 6.5 to 7 is ideal for grass to grow well. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, it can affect the health of your lawn. Soil testing every couple of years is essential to determine the pH level of your lawn.
- Aeration: Aeration involves puncturing small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots. This process helps to alleviate soil compaction and allows the grass roots to grow more efficiently.
Learn More: What Should I Do After My Lawn’s Been Aerated?
- Fertilization: Correct fertilization is essential for a thick and healthy lawn. In Florida, the application of the right blend of fertilizer should be timed with the season, turf type, and pH levels. Apply a slow-release fertilizer several times a year, starting in early spring and continuing through the fall. Make sure you’re using an eco-friendly fertilizer with the right nutrients that can nourish the specific demands of your lawn.
- Thatch: Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and debris that build up on the surface of the soil. If not removed, thatch can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the soil and ultimately, the roots. Thatch is removed during the process of dethatching.
- Seeding: Grass seeding involves spreading seeds over the soil in a specific pattern to encourage growth and development of new grass.Learn More: Best Types of Grass for Your Orlando Home
- Weed Control: Weed control refers to the practice of removing or suppressing the growth of weeds in your lawn. Weeds can affect the health and appearance of your lawn, and it’s essential to control them.
- Topdressing: Topdressing is the process of adding a thin layer of soil, sand, or a mixture of both over the existing soil to help level the surface of the lawn, add nutrients, and improve soil composition.
- Irrigation System: The right irrigation system is essential for a healthy lawn. Florida homeowners should know the difference between a drip irrigation system and a sprinkler system. Drip irrigation is ideal for watering plants, flowers, and gardens, while sprinkler systems are ideal for lawns. Sprinkler systems should have proper head settings, water pressure, and timing to avoid overwatering or underwatering.
When It Comes to Lawn Care, There’s a Lot to Know
Knowing the essential terminology of lawn care can help you communicate with lawn care experts and understand what is being done to your lawn, so you can take great care of it. Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Orlando can help with all aspects of lawn care explained above, from aeration to soil testing, fertilizing, and much more. Call us today at (407) 880-6655 for your free lawn care evaluation!