A lush and green lawn is the envy of every neighbor on the block. What isn’t envious is the use of chemicals the attain such a lawn. The only real way to achieve an eco-friendly backyard is to reduce the dependence on chemical fertilizers. Using harsh chemicals on your lawn can be dangerous to you, your family, and local wildlife. A natural lawn should be resistant to weeds, insects, and diseases.
For some natural lawn care tips, which can be adopted to achieve an eco-friendly backyard, consider the following options:
1. Improve the soil of your lawn
This is one of the basic natural green lawn care tips. Test the pH level of your lawn’s soil. You should ideally maintain a pH level of 6.5 to 7.0. The pH level is slightly acidic. It should not be too acidic. If your soil’s pH level is more acidic than usual, you can add some sulfur to the soil to reduce it. You can also sprinkle lime. The help of professional soil testing services can also be sought in this regard.
Remember that lawns grow naturally when your soil has a good mix of clay, silt, and sand. There should not be too much clay in the soil, as it can compact the soil and lead to a reduced flow of nutrients and air.
The presence of various organic substances and the availability of compost and grass clippings always benefits the soil. They help to balance the excess clay. Furthermore, the organic substances help in building humus in the soil. This helps in retaining water and nutrients.
2. Opt for locally adapted grass
To have an eco-friendly and naturally green lawn, an effective natural lawn care tip to remember is always look out for locally adapted grass. This is because it is suited for the climate and the amount of water and nutrients it requires.
3. Aerate
The compact and clayey soils always benefit from annual aeration — this is another useful natural lawn care tip to remember. A half portion of any healthy soil always has pore space. This pore space allows the circulation of water, nutrients, and air. More compressed soil does not carry pore space; such soil cannot store the required nutrients and minerals for a healthy and natural lawn. Hence, aeration is helpful in creating these important spaces by removing the plugs from the soil. You can always take help from professional services in this regard.
4. Mow your lawn often
A soft cut always helps your lawn to thrive. However, you should ensure not to cut too short. Else, the surface roots become exposed. Due to this, soil can become dry and the surface aeration can get reduced. As a rule of thumb, only cut one-third of the grass if you are mowing your lawn.
5. Water deeply and correctly
Thorough and regular watering helps the grass of your lawn to develop deep root systems. This makes your lawn more drought-resistant. Re-watering should only be done once your lawn dries completely. Watering your lawn in the morning is always preferred. This is ideal because the loss of water due to evaporation will be minimal. Adherence to appropriate watering helps it to flourish naturally.
