Frequently Asked Questions

Please water your lawn between the hours of 5–7 am. Watering your lawn midday increases evaporation, and nighttime watering promotes turf disease. Early morning waterings also ensure that our applications are effective.

Tall fescue stands out as a favored grass type for the greater Sacramento area, owing to its well-matched attributes with the region's climate. Recognized for its commendable drought tolerance, tall fescue conserves water, a crucial factor in a region experiencing hot and dry summers. Its heat resistance, adaptability to varying sun exposure, and capacity to thrive in diverse soil types, including the prevalent clayey soils, make it a versatile choice. The grass maintains a year-round green appearance, ensuring aesthetic appeal throughout both the warm and cooler seasons. With the added benefits of ease in establishment and over-seeding, tall fescue emerges as a practical and adaptable grass variety for lawns in the greater Sacramento area, provided that specific considerations such as microclimates and lawn usage are taken into account. Regular maintenance practices further contribute to a healthy and visually pleasing fescue lawn in this climate.

Adhering to a weekly mowing schedule is essential for optimal lawn health as cutting more than one-third of grass blades in a single mowing session can stress the lawn, leading to discoloration. To prevent soil ruts, it is recommended to alternate the mowing direction regularly. Keeping the grass at a taller height promotes deeper root growth, enhancing the lawn's resilience and drought resistance. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and fostering a healthier root system. Additionally, it suppresses weed growth and maintains a cooler soil temperature, resulting in a lush and aesthetically pleasing lawn.

The frequency of lawn edging should be tailored to factors such as grass type, climate, lawn size, personal preferences, and noticeable signs of overgrowth. As a general guideline, edging your lawn approximately once a month during the growing season is recommended. Different grass types and regional climates may influence the need for more or less frequent edging. Larger lawns and those in warmer climates may require more attention, while smaller lawns or those in colder climates may need less frequent edging. Ultimately, personal preference plays a role, with some individuals opting for a well-manicured look and choosing to edge more often for a tidy appearance. Regular monitoring of the lawn's edges and adjusting the frequency accordingly ensures a consistently neat and appealing landscape.

"Heat sinks" in lawn care refer to areas within a lawn or garden that absorb and retain heat more than their surroundings. While they can create beneficial microclimates for earlier or extended plant growth in colder seasons, they may also pose challenges during hot summer months. Excessive heat retention in these areas can lead to stress and damage, causing uneven growth, discoloration, or scorched patches in the lawn. Gardeners should be mindful of the potential positive and negative effects of heat sinks, considering factors like soil composition, hardscape surfaces, and nearby structures. Strategic plant placement, along with appropriate irrigation and shading techniques, can help manage and optimize the impact of heat sinks on overall lawn health.

Dull mower blades can lead to brown tips on grass blades by causing fraying or shredding during the cutting process. When mower blades are not sharp, they tear the grass instead of cleanly cutting it, resulting in uneven and jagged edges on the grass blades. This damage makes the grass more susceptible to environmental stressors, such as heat and disease, and accelerates water loss as the torn edges increase the surface area for evaporation. Regular sharpening of mower blades is crucial to maintain a clean cut, promote healthier grass growth, and prevent the browning of grass tips, ultimately contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing and resilient lawn.

Bentgrass and Bermuda grass can pose challenges to a lawn by exhibiting invasive tendencies and differing growth habits from other commonly used grass species. Bermuda grass, known for its aggressive spreading through stolons and rhizomes, can quickly overtake and dominate other grasses, leading to a uniform monoculture. Bentgrass, while less aggressive, can form dense patches that may outcompete neighboring grass varieties. These invasive characteristics result in an uneven and aesthetically displeasing lawn appearance. Moreover, the distinct growth habits and maintenance requirements of both grass types can create challenges for overall lawn management. To mitigate these issues, it is crucial to implement proper lawn care practices, including regular mowing, overseeding with desired grass species, and selective herbicide use to control the unwanted grasses and maintain a healthy, diverse lawn.

A lawn renovation becomes the optimal solution when faced with widespread issues such as significant weed infestations, diseases, or pest damage, necessitating a comprehensive approach to revitalizing the entire lawn. Poor grass quality, manifested by weak or unhealthy grass species, can also prompt a renovation to introduce more suitable varieties tailored to the specific region, soil type, and climate. Renovation is especially advisable for lawns exhibiting thin or bare areas due to wear and tear, compaction, or outdated grass types. Additionally, if soil compaction is hindering water absorption and root growth, a renovation may include aerating the soil. Changing lawn use, such as converting areas for different purposes, and the absence of desired features like proper drainage and irrigation systems can also prompt a renovation. It's crucial to assess specific issues, set clear goals, and plan corrective measures, with the timing of the renovation typically best suited for the growing season to optimize new grass establishment.

Brown areas in a lawn can stem from various factors, necessitating a thorough investigation for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Inadequate watering or drought stress during hot weather, compacted soil hindering root growth, and poor drainage leading to waterlogged conditions are common culprits. Insect infestations, such as grubs or chinch bugs, can cause damage to grass roots, resulting in brown patches, while fungal diseases like brown patch thrive in humid conditions. Improper mowing techniques, nutrient deficiencies or imbalances, and pet urine concentrated in specific areas can also contribute to localized browning. Weed competition and environmental stressors, such as extreme temperatures, frost, or other adverse conditions, may further exacerbate brown areas. To address these issues effectively, a tailored approach involving adjustments to watering practices, soil improvement, pest control, proper lawn care, and consideration of regional factors is crucial. Consulting with local lawn care experts can provide targeted solutions for restoring a healthy and vibrant lawn.

Bare areas in a lawn can arise from diverse factors, necessitating a thorough examination for precise identification and effective resolution. Frequent foot traffic and soil compaction, often exacerbated by poor drainage, can inhibit grass growth, leading to bare patches. Insufficient seeding or overseeding during lawn establishment or renovation may result in gaps in the turf. Concentrated pet urine can cause nitrogen burn and create bare spots, while invasive weeds, diseases like lawn rust or snow mold, and insect infestations such as grubs can contribute to grass damage and bare areas. Nutrient imbalances or deficiencies and environmental stressors, such as extreme weather conditions, further weaken the grass, causing bare patches. Addressing these issues requires a tailored approach, encompassing practices like reseeding, soil improvement, drainage enhancement, adjusted watering, fertilization, and pest or disease control, ensuring comprehensive restoration of a healthy and lush lawn.

Nutsedge, commonly known as nutgrass, is a persistent and resilient weed that poses challenges for lawn care. Its distinctive triangular stem, rapid growth, and underground tubers called nutlets make it resistant to traditional control methods. Nutsedge often outcompetes regular grasses for resources, resulting in uneven patches in the lawn. Specialized control treatments are required due to its herbicide resistance and the need for selective control that targets nutsedge without harming desirable turf grass. Herbicides containing active ingredients like sulfentrazone or halosulfuron are specifically designed for effective nutsedge control. Combining these specialized herbicides with cultural practices such as regular mowing and maintaining overall turf health is crucial for a comprehensive approach to managing and controlling nutsedge in lawns and landscapes.

Crabgrass, an aggressive annual grassy weed, poses challenges in lawns due to its rapid growth and spreading nature. To eliminate crabgrass, a multifaceted approach is recommended. Begin with preventive measures, applying pre-emergent herbicides in early spring to hinder seed germination. Maintaining a healthy lawn through proper care practices such as regular mowing, watering, and fertilization can help prevent crabgrass infestations. If crabgrass has already emerged, post-emergent herbicides, especially selective ones designed for grassy weed control, can be applied following recommended guidelines. Hand pulling is a viable option for small infestations, particularly when crabgrass is young. Additionally, overseeding with desirable grass varieties helps fill in thin areas, making it harder for crabgrass to establish. A combination of these methods, tailored to the specific conditions of the lawn, is crucial for effective crabgrass elimination and ongoing management.

Efficient lawn watering during a low-water year involves strategic practices to conserve water while maintaining the health of the grass. Opt for deep and infrequent watering, encouraging deep root growth, and aim to water early in the morning to minimize evaporation. Utilize soaker hoses, drip irrigation, or well-adjusted sprinklers to deliver water directly to the soil, reducing wastage and preventing runoff. Applying mulch around trees and plants helps retain soil moisture, while monitoring soil moisture levels ensures watering only when necessary. Adhere to local watering restrictions and consider low-water-tolerant grass varieties to minimize water requirements. Additionally, collect rainwater using barrels to supplement watering needs during dry periods. A holistic approach tailored to the specific needs of the lawn and compliance with local regulations ensures effective water conservation during low-water conditions.

Winter fertilization remains crucial for lawns as it contributes to ongoing root development, even when grass growth slows during colder months. The nutrients supplied during winter fertilization are stored in the grass, providing a reserve for quicker green-up and healthier growth when spring arrives. A fertilizer with a higher potassium content enhances the lawn's resistance to winter stress, promoting cell wall strength and disease resistance. Additionally, the practice supports overall lawn health, making it more resilient to environmental stressors such as diseases and pests. Winter-fertilized lawns tend to recover more quickly from dormancy, displaying a lush and vibrant appearance as temperatures rise in the spring. Optimal winter fertilization involves choosing a balanced nutrient formulation, preferably slow-release, and adhering to proper timing and application rates based on the specific needs of the lawn and grass type. Consulting with a lawn care professional or conducting a soil test can assist in tailoring the fertilization approach for maximum effectiveness.

Addressing surface tree roots in a lawn involves implementing several strategies to balance aesthetics and the health of both the tree and the lawn. Applying mulch around the base of the tree helps protect exposed roots and provides a more even surface for mowing. Gradually raising the soil level or creating a raised bed around the tree with incorporated roots can contribute to a visually appealing landscape. Installing a root barrier offers a more structured approach, redirecting tree roots deeper into the soil. Choosing shade-tolerant grass varieties, using pavers or gravel to designate pathways, and consulting an arborist for professional guidance are additional measures to mitigate the impact of surface tree roots. Implementing proper lawn care practices ensures the health of both the grass and the tree. It's crucial to approach any alterations to the root system with caution, allowing for gradual adjustments to avoid harm to the tree.