Your lawn is more than just grass – it’s an investment in your property’s beauty and value. As your local lawn care experts serving the Alton, Godfrey, and Edwardsville areas since 2009, we’ve learned exactly what it takes to maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn in our Illinois climate. Here’s our professional guide to keeping your lawn in prime condition year-round.
The Foundation: Proper Mowing Techniques
The way you mow matters more than you might think. Here are our expert-approved mowing practices:
- Maintain a consistent 3-3.5 inch grass height
- Never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade length in a single mowing
- Keep mower blades sharp for clean cuts
- Alternate mowing patterns to prevent ruts and promote upright growth
- Mow when grass is dry to prevent clumping
Smart Watering Strategies
Proper irrigation is crucial for lawn health:
- Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth
- Water early morning (before 10 AM) to minimize evaporation
- Aim for 1-1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall
- Adjust watering schedule based on weather conditions
- Monitor for signs of over or under-watering
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring:
- Schedule pre-emergent weed control
- Begin regular mowing as growth resumes
- Consider core aeration for compacted soil
Summer:
- Maintain consistent mowing schedule
- Monitor for pest activity
- Schedule our professional pest control treatments
Fall:
- Perfect time for core aeration and overseeding
- Continue regular mowing until growth stops
- Schedule leaf removal services
Professional Treatment Timing
For optimal results, follow our recommended professional treatment schedule:
- Early Spring: Pre-emergent and fertilization
- Late Spring: Weed control and fertilization
- Summer: Pest control every 5-6 weeks
- Late Summer: Grub control
- Fall: Core aeration and overseeding
- Late Fall: Final fertilization
Warning Signs to Watch For
Early detection prevents major problems. Contact us if you notice:
- Brown or thinning patches
- Unusual discoloration
- Pest activity
- Excessive weeds
- Standing water
- Compacted soil
The Value of Professional Care
While these tips form the foundation of good lawn care, professional service ensures your lawn reaches its full potential. Element Turf & Outdoor Solutions offers comprehensive care programs, including our signature 6-step fertilization program and targeted pest control services.
Ready to take your lawn care to the next level? Contact us at 618.467.7047 or visit www.elementturf.com to request a free quote. Our team serves Alton, Godfrey, Edwardsville, and surrounding Illinois communities with professional, reliable lawn care services.
