Saving Money, the Lawn and the Environment As Well

Yes, it is possible to have beautiful lawns while saving both money and the earth. Here are some suggested steps:

1. Have a soil sample done. A soil test can easily be obtained by your local University Extension Service. The results of the test will tell you exactly what your turf needs and provide you with specific recommendations for the amount of nutrients the turf may need, such as lime, potassium and nitrogen.
   
   
2. Only apply what is needed. Frequently, the board believes that because a specific chemical treatment is in the landscaping contract, it must be applied. Most chemical treatments can be listed as optional services. Too many nutrients can both waste money and do harm to the environment. Because these excess nutrients wash into the storm drains and flow into streams and lakes, they can result in water quality problems.
   
   
3. Use phosphorous-free fertilizer. Since most established lawns have a sufficient supply of phosphorous in the soil, you can save money by having your contractor apply phosphorous-free fertilizer.
   
   
4. While this one may be hard for your board to agree to, you should only cut 1/3 of the grass blade during mowing. By doing so, you will not have to rake or remove the clippings, which can eventually help you save on fertilizer. Most of the residual fertilizer is in the grass you cut off and can be reused as it decomposes.
   
   
5. If you have crabgrass, only treat the areas affected, do not treat the entire turf area. The same applies for dandelions. They should only be spot-treated or even removed manually, if possible. If you have weeds requiring a larger treatment, use a weed killer that contains fertilizer as well.
   
   
6. Lastly, if you seed in the Fall, convince your board to approve the application of good quality grass seed. Better-quality seeds will produce fewer weeds while, less expensive products will produce more weeds, which results in the need to apply more chemicals.
   
   

Meg Kitchin
PCAM®, AMS®, CMCA®
Regional Director
Mid-Atlantic Management Corporation
Plymouth Meeting, PA