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Blue Grass Lawn Care & Landscaping ServiceBlog
04 Oct 2024
house during the fall Winterized Landscape Plants & Foliage
By Karen Lynd Landscaping, Shrub, Tree

Winterize Landscape Plants & Foliage with Winter Guard and Feeding

The best time to start your spring landscaping is in late autumn. That may sound extreme, but it’s absolutely true that the key to healthy trees, shrubs, and plants is preparing them for a healthy start to the growing season.

As the temperatures begin to drop here in the Northeast, all of our plants and foliage are getting the message that it’s time to rest. While we mostly think about fall landscaping as cleaning up falling leaves and some post-summer pruning, it’s also about protection and fertilization.

Protect Trees and Shrubs with Winter Guard

Fall and winter can be very wet seasons in Southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey. One would think all that moisture is great for spring growth. It’s not quite that simple, though. Excessive fall rain, blustery winds, snow, and swinging temperatures can damage your property’s landscaping and put you way behind your goals for the spring.

The trees and shrubs around your home are far more exposed to the weather than plant life in a forested area. This exposure puts your foliage at risk for breakage, uprooting, and even dehydration during the cold months. All of the weather elements take their toll on your landscaping. The good news is that you can prevent this damage by winterizing your trees and shrubs for their protection.

Blue Grass Lawn Service & Landscaping, Inc. has developed a Winter Guard Protection treatment that minimizes the effects of cold, wind, snow, and rain on your landscaping. This treatment is customized to meet the needs of your property. It includes Pest Inspection, where we inspect and treat for the pests that like to set up home in your landscaping during the cold months. Our team of professionals is serious about winter protection for your trees and shrubs. We have developed winterization techniques that promote a vibrant start to spring after anything winter throws at your landscaping.

Additional services that you should consider doing to winterize your property include:

  • Mulching - our method of mulching leaves the stem of the shrubs exposed in a well, with the mulch building out and up from the center. This allows for proper drainage to avoid pest infestations and rot.
  • Windshields - we protect shrubs, plants, and small trees that are most exposed by creating burlap windshields. We can fully wrap or stake down trees and shrubs that are especially vulnerable to being blown over.
  • Tying branches - by wrapping branches carefully with twine, we can avoid them being snapped off by heavy winds or snow loads.

If you need assistance with these tasks, we can happily provide you with referrals for highly qualified professionals.

Proper Feeding for Winter Rest

Fertilization is not just for the spring and summer. We feed lawns and landscaping in the fall as well so that the soil can regain the nutrients that get depleted during the warmer months. 

Winter fertilization slowly releases nutrients into the soil where they will be stored for when the temperatures begin to warm up again. This promotes strong root development, and it ensures that the plants have access to healthy soil as soon as they come out of dormancy. The result is excellent seasonal budding and flowering throughout your landscaping.

If you have never tried a full winterizing treatment for your landscape trees, shrubs, and plants before, you may have experienced the frustration of slow spring growth. That frustration is much worse if you notice that other homes in your neighborhood have landscaping that seems to wake right up and start growing lush leaves and abundant buds and blossoms. The only difference is winterization!

You don’t have to wait until spring to get your trees and shrubs into growth mode. Feed them now so they wake up refreshed and ready for spring.

Timely Pruning for Proper Growth

Pruning is a pretty standard activity during your fall landscaping cleanup. This is the time when you’ll find dead branches to remove and overgrowth to cut back.

When pruning for shaping purposes, wait until your shrubs or trees have finished all of their flowering. Even better, wait until after the first frost of the season. Pruning while there is still life on the branches will disrupt the plant’s internal clock. Prune after the plant goes dormant so that it can recover and then direct its energy into new growth on healthy branches.

Most homeowners get the closest look at their trees, shrubs, and plants while pruning. If you notice anything that concerns you, such as mushroom groupings, insects, retained moisture, or signs of rot or disease, please give us a call. Our highly knowledgeable team can help you diagnose and treat the problem before it causes too much damage to your landscaping.

If you need assistance with pruning, we can provide referrals for skilled professionals to make sure it gets done in the healthiest manner for your trees and shrubs.

Professional Tree and Shrub Care for Winter Protection

At Blue Grass Lawn Service & Landscaping, we have been testing and developing our methods for over 40 years. Our Tree and Shrub Care Program is designed to promote healthy plant life throughout the year so that you always have beautiful landscaping. 

Our customers rely on us to strengthen their trees, and shrubs so that they are both healthy and beautiful year after year. Winter Guard and Fall Fertilization are available in our Superior Complete Protection Plan for Trees and Shrubs. Contact us to schedule an estimate so that we can discuss your specific needs. Blue Grass Lawn Service & Landscaping is proud to serve homeowners in Montgomery and Bucks Counties in Pennsylvania, as well as Mercer and Middlesex Counties in New Jersey.

13 Sep 2024
beautiful lawn treated with Core Aeration and Overseeding
By Karen Lynd Lawn Care

Enhance Lawn Health with Core Aeration and Overseeding

To maintain a healthy, beautiful lawn that grows attractively throughout the warmer months, intentional planning and treatment are needed during the off-season. Lawn care doesn’t begin in early spring. It’s actually a year-round process that prepares the turf and grass roots for strong new growth.

Once the summer temperatures begin to cool, maintenance for next year’s healthy grass begins. September and October are ideal months for lawn treatments like core aeration and overseeding. 

What are Core Aeration and Overseeding?

The processes of core aeration and overseeding work well together to promote a healthy dormant period for grass during the colder months. These treatment techniques allow the soil to absorb more air, water, nutrients, and new grass seed so that spring growth gets off to a great start.

What is Core Aeration?

The turf that supports a lawn takes a beating every year. Temperatures, mowing, activity, and weather all cause the soil to become compacted. This means that air gets pushed out of the turf, leaving less room for moisture and sunlight to reach deep into the ground. Without these necessary elements, nutrients aren’t able to generate in the soil and feed the roots. Over time, this affects the health of the grass roots, and the lawn will grow less productively each year.

Core aeration literally opens up the soil to allow air, moisture, and light to work their way back in. An aerator is a machine that reaches into the lawn and removes small cylinders of grass and soil. These cylinders or plugs are about three inches long and a half inch in diameter. Aerator machines can be either manually or power operated.

The removal of the cores clears space for the remaining soil to loosen up. It expands to fill the holes, which then makes room for air, water, and light to promote effective growth. Core aeration also cleans up the layer of thatch that tends to spread across lawns. Thatch is dead grass, leaves, roots, and stems that build up around your grass. Thatch is protective up to a certain point. If it becomes overgrown, however, it will block water and nutrients just like compacted soil. Core aeration breaks down thatch growth so that it continues to be beneficial.

Homeowners who treat their lawn with core aeration typically notice that it has fewer brown, dead-looking areas when it starts growing again in the spring. Regular aeration also results in fewer pests and less fungus in the warm months. The best time to aerate a lawn is in early autumn when the soil is still fairly warm, but not too dry.

What is Overseeding?

When roots are damaged from soil compaction, spring growth often comes in less uniformly. Homeowners notice bare spots and uneven growth. Overseeding means to spread new grass seed all over the lawn, including over existing grass. This process allows the seeds to settle in during the cold months so that they take root and start growing at the start of spring.

Overseeding will help a lawn come in more evenly from the very beginning of the new growing season. This prevents homeowners from having to play catch up over the course of several weeks in the spring while they wait for those bare spots to recover. The new seeds also provide a protective layer over the existing grass, so fewer weeds will grow.

It’s best to take care of overseeding after the busy outdoor season is finished. Most of the activity that wears down a lawn is done for the year, which prevents the new seeds from being disrupted from where they were spread.

Combine Core Aeration and Overseeding for Maximum Benefits to Your Lawn

Core aeration and overseeding, when applied at the same time, prepare a lawn for an excellent upcoming growing season. Core aeration is done first to loosen the soil, create air pockets, and allow nutrients to start moving through once again. Overseeding then fills the refreshed soil and helps to thicken and protect the existing grass around it. Because of the aeration, the new seeds fall deeper into the soil where they develop strong roots.

While autumn is ideal, core aeration and overseeding can be done at various times throughout the year, as long as the grass is in a growth cycle. It should be avoided during the winter when grass is dormant, and during the hottest and driest parts of summer. 

If a lawn has been left alone for several years and has many dead patches or weeds, a homeowner might want to go ahead and get started on healthy treatments right away. Or if homeowners simply could not get their aeration and overseeding scheduled during autumn for various reasons, it is better to do the maintenance in another season for the benefit of the soil. Additionally, aeration and overseeding should be done following new home construction, even if the builders applied grass seed. The construction equipment certainly compacted the soil, so the treatment will improve the lawn’s initial growth.

Lawn Care Professionals Complete Core Aeration and Overseeding Efficiently

The two-part process of core aeration and overseeding is intensive and time-consuming work. Homeowners with very small yards may be able to complete this project on their own each year. For homes with larger lawns, especially those with both front and back yards, these tasks can quickly become overwhelming. Without professional grade equipment, aerating usually takes far longer than most homeowners are willing to commit.

Blue Grass Lawn Service specializes in these lawn treatments as part of our Superior Lawn Care Service Plan. We use extra heavy core aerators, which we have found to create optimal seeding conditions. With over 40 years of experience as lawn care experts, we have developed a highly effective process for core aeration and overseeding that produces consistently vibrant, healthy growth. Contact us to schedule your core aeration and overseeding treatment, and to learn more about our full schedule of year-round lawn care services. We proudly serve homeowners in Montgomery and Bucks Counties in Pennsylvania, as well as Mercer and Middlesex Counties in New Jersey. 

21 Jun 2024
family enjoying bbq outside because of mosquito treatments
By Karen Lynd General, Lawn Care

Hello Summer, Goodbye Mosquito Bites! Safe, Natural Mosquito Treatment for Lawns

The warm, long days of summer are the perfect time to finally get outside for relaxation, meals, and time with friends and family. You have invested a lot of money and effort getting your outdoor living space ready for the season, and you should enjoy it! But when uninvited guests arrive to buzz and bite, the nuisance is enough to drive everyone back inside.This year, control the mosquitoes before they control you. Blue Grass Lawn Service & Landscaping, Inc. can help you keep your summer space free of these unwelcome bugs. Your family and invited guests will love to hang out in your no-mosquito zone.

Temporary and Partial Mosquito Solutions Can’t Solve the Problem

Every year, homeowners go to great lengths to finally solve their mosquito problem, and every year, they and their families still end up with far too many itchy red bites. Most traditional mosquito solutions are only temporary, or they have very limited effectiveness.

Citronella Candles

Citronella candles are a popular tool for repelling mosquitoes and other bugs, but they aren’t the best fit for every home. Citronella has a strong scent, which can be irritating to many people. If anyone has allergies or sinus problems that are triggered by strong smells, citronella might be enough to keep them away from your backyard. Citronella also only works when the candles are lit, and only in their immediate area. To really control mosquitoes, you would need to keep candles going the whole time you’re outside, and at every location in your outdoor living space. If you like to spread out around the deck, pool, and backyard fire pit, you’ll be going through a lot of candles!

Bug Zappers and Hanging Traps

Bug zappers and hanging traps are also pretty limited. Zappers usually need to be placed near the house where they can be plugged in. Traps get to be a pretty gross sight once the bugs start accumulating in them. Plus, who knows how many bites that mosquito might deliver before it finds its way into the zappers and traps? Because of their limited range and either annoying sound or unpleasant sight, zappers and traps are not the ideal mosquito solution.

Mosquito sprays

Mosquito sprays are one other option, but they are laden with chemicals. Who wants to cover themselves and their kids in sticky, smelly chemicals every time they want to head outside? Sprays may not be good for your skin, and they certainly aren’t great to breathe. If you forget to spray before you head outside, you’re fair game for the bites. And if you’re getting sweaty or spending time in the water, the chemicals will wear off faster than you think. 

All of these solutions are limited at best, and totally ineffective - or even dangerous - at worst. It’s important to keep in mind that none of them actually solve the mosquito problem, either! They might protect a small area or individual people, but they do not rid your outdoor living space of these nasty bugs.

Safe and Natural Mosquito Treatment for Your Entire Outdoor Area

We have been in the business of lawn care for over 40 years. Nothing makes us happier than making sure our customers can fully enjoy their yards, decks, pools, and patios. We know that bugs can ruin summer, especially for people who are extra sensitive to mosquito bites. Just a few minutes outside, and you could be covered in painfully itchy red bumps. But as much as you want those mosquitoes gone, you might be worried if a full yard treatment is safe for your kids to run around barefoot or for your pets to have their faces and paws in the grass. 

Our goal is to not only get rid of your mosquitoes, but to do it in a way that enhances your summer season. That means offering a mosquito treatment that is safe and effective for your family and property. Our mosquito treatments are:

  • 100% natural
  • Safe for kids and pets
  • Expertly applied to keep your outdoor space completely mosquito-free
  • Guaranteed

We have over 40 years of expert lawn care knowledge, so we know what is effective and what is safe. Enjoy your outdoor living space all summer long with your family and friends, and without any uninvited guests. Contact us today to achieve beautiful, bug-free landscaping and lawn care for your home in Montgomery and Bucks Counties in Pennsylvania or Mercer and Middlesex counites in New Jersey. We offer $20 off each mosquito treatment!

Check out our Facebook page for more lawn care tips! 

18 Oct 2023
By Jacob Gardening, General, Lawn Care

The Role of Lawn Aeration in Maintaining Healthy & Green Grass

When it comes to maintaining a lush, vibrant lawn, lawn aeration is an often overlooked but critical practice. The difference between having a healthy, green lawn and one plagued by brown spots and spongy turf can be attributed to whether or not you let your turf breathe. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the importance of lawn aeration and why it's essential for your property.

Understanding the Need for Aeration

Even the most well-maintained lawns can occasionally suffer from fatigue and overuse, especially during the summer. Heavy foot traffic, frequent lawn mowing, and even vehicles parked on your lawn can lead to soil compaction. This compaction hinders the flow of vital nutrients, oxygen, water, and sunlight to your grass's roots, weakening them over time. The result is a lawn with unsightly brown patches and spongy turf.

The Aeration Process

Lawn aeration is the solution to combat soil compaction. It involves the use of specialized machines that perforate small holes throughout your lawn, typically to a depth of around three inches. These holes are strategically placed to allow the much-needed nutrients, sunlight, oxygen, and water to reach the grass roots.

Benefits of Lawn Aeration

The advantages of lawn aeration extend far beyond just breaking up soil compaction. Here are some of the remarkable benefits it provides:

1. Thatch Prevention

Thatch is the layer of dead and living vegetation that accumulates on top of your grass. While some thatch is beneficial, excessive thatch can block essential elements, creating an environment ripe for pests and fungi. Aeration not only combats soil compaction but also helps break down thatch, ensuring nutrients can reach the grass roots.

2. Healthier Grass

Grass roots are the foundation of your lawn, anchoring the grass in place. When they receive the necessary micronutrients, water, sunlight, and oxygen, your entire yard flourishes. Aeration opens up the soil, allowing roots to thrive and subsequently nurture the grass blades. The result is a healthier, fuller, and greener lawn.

3. Disease Prevention

Lawn aeration enhances air circulation and reduces humidity, which is essential in preventing various lawn diseases, including brown patch disease. Say goodbye to unsightly brown spots with proper aeration.

Professional Lawn Aeration Service

Revitalizing your lawn with professional aeration services is a wise choice. At Blue Grass Lawn Service, we specialize in lawn aeration and other maintenance needs. Our knowledgeable technicians use high-quality equipment and products to ensure your lawn gets the care it deserves. 

In conclusion, lawn aeration is a crucial practice for maintaining a healthy, green lawn. It combats soil compaction, prevents thatch build-up, and ensures your grass receives the essential elements it needs to thrive. By understanding the significance of lawn aeration and availing professional services, you can enjoy a lush, green lawn that's the envy of your neighborhood.

Check out our Facebook page for more lawn care tips! 

18 Oct 2023
By Jacob Gardening, General, Lawn Care

Elevate Your Curb Appeal with Blue Grass Lawn Service

When it comes to creating an inviting first impression of your home, landscaping plays a pivotal role. A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed landscape can significantly enhance your property's curb appeal. At Blue Grass Lawn Service, we understand the importance of making your home stand out, and in this comprehensive guide, we'll provide you with top-tier landscaping ideas that will not only surpass your expectations but also outshine your neighbors. Say goodbye to overgrown lawns, bland flower beds, and lackluster walkways. Let's transform your outdoor space into a picturesque haven that radiates beauty day and night.

Trimmed to Perfection

An unkempt lawn not only attracts pests and insects but also diminishes your home's curb appeal. To start the transformation, adopt a regular lawn maintenance routine provided by Blue Grass Lawn Care. Keeping your lawn neatly trimmed not only prevents it from becoming unruly but also ensures a well-groomed appearance that captures attention. With well-trimmed grass, your property exudes a polished and inviting ambiance.

Edging Elegance

To separate your precious flower beds from the rest of your landscape, consider adding edging. Edging provides a distinct boundary, preserving the integrity of your plants. By preventing accidental trampling and defining the edges of your landscaping, it offers a visual contrast that enhances the overall aesthetics. The effect is profound – a harmonious transition from yard to flower bed, lending an air of sophistication to your outdoor space.

A Symphony of Colors

Introducing an array of vibrant and captivating flowers to your plant beds is a surefire way to boost your home's curb appeal. Consider flowers like roses, hydrangea, and boxwood, which add a touch of elegance to your landscape. Achieving a stunning plant bed akin to the outdoor landscaping requires proper preparation and mulching. For the best results, it's advisable to enlist the expertise of professional landscapers who can ensure a flawless outcome.

Illuminate the Night

The allure of your home doesn't have to fade when the sun sets. Enhance your curb appeal by strategically placing lights around your plant beds and pathways. This not only accentuates your landscaping but also provides an enchanting ambiance after dark. Experiment with various types of lights, from soft warm tones to vivid colors, to create a mesmerizing lighting effect that complements your property's style.

Fertilize Appropriately:

Providing your plants with the right nutrients is key to their overall health and productivity. Use a slow-release or organic fertilizer specifically formulated for the types of plants in your garden. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and make plants more susceptible to pests and diseases. Follow the recommended application rates and timing for optimal results.

A Place to Unwind

A beautiful outdoor landscape deserves to be enjoyed to the fullest. Enhance your curb appeal by adding a designated seating area. Whether you opt for lounge chairs and a table for outdoor dining or cozy seats for relaxation, this addition allows you to savor the natural beauty of your surroundings. Feel free to experiment with different colors and styles of furniture to create a look that suits your personal taste.

In conclusion, achieving an exceptional curb appeal for your home involves a combination of these landscaping ideas. To bring your vision to life, you don't have to embark on this journey alone. Contact Blue Grass Lawn Service today for all your lawn maintenance needs. Our team of experts is dedicated to making your landscaping dreams a reality. Elevate your curb appeal and stand out in your neighborhood with a stunning outdoor transformation. Your dream home is just a call away.

Check out our Facebook page for more lawn care tips! 

23 Jun 2023
Lawn Tree and Shrub Care Services
By Jacob Gardening, General, Lawn Care

A Guide For Summer Gardening

During this time of year, many homeowners are excited to spend time in their gardens, enjoying the beauty and serenity they provide. However, maintaining a healthy and thriving garden during the summer months can be a challenge without the right knowledge and strategies. That's why Blue Grass Lawn Service is here to help! In this blog post, we will share expert gardening tips to guide you in growing and maintaining a healthy garden throughout the summer. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips will ensure your garden flourishes and becomes a source of joy and pride.

Choose the Right Plants:

Selecting the right plants for your garden is crucial for summer success. Opt for heat-tolerant and drought-resistant varieties that can withstand the hot and dry conditions typical of the season. Consider native plants, as they are well-adapted to the local climate and require less maintenance. Research the specific needs and growing requirements of each plant to ensure they thrive in your garden.

Water Properly:

Proper watering is essential for a healthy garden in the summer. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This encourages deep root growth and helps plants become more resilient to drought. Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Use a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the plant roots, minimizing water waste.

Mulch:

Mulching is a beneficial practice that helps conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around your plants to help retain moisture and insulate the soil. Mulch also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down over time.

Practice Proper Pruning:

Regular pruning is important for maintaining the health and shape of your plants. Remove dead or damaged branches, as well as any overgrown or crowded areas. Pruning also improves air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases. Be cautious not to remove more than one-third of the plant's foliage at a time to avoid stressing the plant.

Fertilize Appropriately:

Providing your plants with the right nutrients is key to their overall health and productivity. Use a slow-release or organic fertilizer specifically formulated for the types of plants in your garden. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and make plants more susceptible to pests and diseases. Follow the recommended application rates and timing for optimal results.

Weed Control:

Weeds can quickly take over your garden if left unattended. Regularly inspect your garden and remove weeds promptly, ensuring you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth. Consider using organic mulch or weed barriers to suppress weed growth and make maintenance easier. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide before weed seeds germinate can also help prevent weed infestations.

Monitor Pests and Diseases:

Summer is a prime time for pests and diseases to wreak havoc on your garden. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of damage, including chewed leaves, discolored foliage, or wilting. Identify and address pest or disease problems early on to prevent them from spreading. Use natural or organic pest control methods whenever possible to minimize harm to beneficial insects and the environment.

Provide Shade and Protection:

Some plants may require shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent sunburn or stress. Consider providing temporary shade using umbrellas, shade cloth, or plant coverings. Protect your plants from extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds or heavy rain, by providing proper support and shelter when necessary.

With these expert gardening tips from Blue Grass Lawn Service, you can enjoy a flourishing and healthy garden throughout the summer months. Choose the right plants, water properly, mulch, practice proper pruning, fertilize appropriately, control weeds, monitor pests and diseases, and provide shade and protection when needed. By implementing these strategies, your garden will thrive, providing a beautiful and serene oasis for you to enjoy all summer long.

Check out our Facebook page for more lawn care tips! 

31 May 2023
By Jacob Gardening, General, Lawn Care

How to Control and Prevent Lawn Weeds

Many of us who regularly tend to our lawns and yards are always thinking about ways to maintain them and keep them looking healthy and vibrant. One of the biggest challenges homeowners face during the summer season is dealing with lawn weeds. These unwelcome invaders can quickly take over your lawn space, compromising its appearance and health. This is why it's crucial to understand how weeds develop within a lawn and what steps you can take to effectively control and prevent them from reappearing. In this blog post, we want to provide some of our tips and insights on weed prevention to help you maintain a pristine and weed-free lawn throughout the summer season.

Understanding Weed Development:

To effectively control and prevent weeds, it's important to understand how they develop within a lawn. Weeds are opportunistic plants that thrive in areas where they can outcompete desirable grasses. They frequently establish roots in bare sections of soil and have the potential to grow quickly. This can lead to a lack of essential nutrients, sunlight. All of these components are crucial when it comes to maintaining the health of your lawn. Weed growth can be caused by a various elements, including poor lawn care practices, unhealthy soil, and inappropriate mowing techniques. You can assure a healthy and vibrant lawn by taking care of these problems and putting in place efficient weed prevention techniques.

Maintain Proper Mowing Heights:

For weed prevention, maintaining the proper mowing height is essential. When you mow your lawn too short, the grass becomes weaker and provides the perfect habitat for weeds to grow. On the other hand, letting your grass become too tall might result in a buildup of thatch, which can contain weed seeds. Find out the ideal height to mow your particular lawn at, then adjust your mower. As a result, weed growth will be inhibited and good grass growth will be encouraged.

Regularly Remove Weeds:

Regularly inspect your lawn for any weeds and promptly remove them to prevent them from spreading and going to seed. Be sure to remove the entire weed, including the roots, to prevent regrowth. There are various tools available, such as hand pullers or weeders, that can make the task easier. Additionally, proper disposal of weed debris is crucial to prevent them from reestablishing in your yard.

Improve Soil Health:

Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving lawn and can greatly reduce weed growth. Conduct a soil test to assess its nutrient content and pH levels. Based on the results, amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its structure, drainage, and nutrient availability. A well-nourished lawn will be better equipped to compete with weeds and prevent their establishment.

Implement Proper Watering Techniques:

Watering your lawn properly is essential for maintaining its health and preventing weed growth. Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep root growth, strengthening the grass and making it more resilient against weeds. Avoid shallow, frequent watering, as it promotes weed germination and weakens the grass. Additionally, watering in the early morning allows the grass to dry throughout the day, minimizing conditions that are favorable for weed development.

Hire a Professional Lawn Care Service:

For homeowners who want to ensure their lawn receives expert care, hiring a professional lawn care service like Blue Grass Lawn Service can be a wise choice. Professional lawn care technicians have the knowledge, experience, and tools to properly assess your lawn's needs, develop a customized weed prevention plan, and provide regular maintenance to keep your lawn healthy and weed-free throughout the summer season.

Preventing weeds from taking over your lawn requires a proactive approach and consistent lawn care practices. By understanding how weeds develop, maintaining proper mowing heights, regularly removing weeds, improving soil health, implementing proper watering techniques, and practicing regular lawn care, you can effectively control and prevent weeds from reappearing. If you prefer professional assistance, Blue Grass Lawn Service is here to provide expert lawn care services and help you achieve a beautiful and weed-free lawn this summer. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive lawn care programs.

Check out our Facebook page for more lawn care tips! 

22 May 2023
By Jacob Gardening, General, Lawn Care

Summer Lawn Mowing Tips

With summer just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about how to keep your lawn looking its best. Mowing your lawn is an essential part of lawn care, and knowing the right tips and techniques can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your grass. In this blog post, we will share various tips for mowing your lawn so that you can improve the health and look of your grass for the summer season. These suggestions will assist you in getting a lush, colorful lawn that you can enjoy all summer long, whether you prefer to handle it yourself or hire a lawn care service.

Tip #1: Set the Right Mowing Height

Setting the proper mowing height is among the most essential lawn maintenance factors to consider. Different types of grass have different optimal heights, so it's crucial to know what type of grass you have and adjust your mower accordingly. The right mowing height will encourage healthy grass growth and aid in soil shading, which limits the growth of weeds.

Tip #2: Avoid Cutting Too Much at Once

A single mowing session shouldn't remove more than one-third of the grass height from your lawn. Cutting too much all at once can stress the grass and cause scalping, which leaves the lawn more vulnerable to weed infestations and disease. If your grass is too long, gradually cut it down over several mowing sessions until it reaches the desired height.

Tip #3: Keep Your Mower Blades Sharp

Instead of giving the grass a clean cut, dull mower blades might tear it, which can cause browning and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. For the sake of keeping your grass healthy, you must frequently sharpen your mower blades. If you have a big lawn, you should sharpen your blades more frequently than once a year. Sharp blades will give your grass a neat and even appearance, promoting optimal growth.

Tip #4: Alternate Mowing Patterns

Every time you mow your lawn, try a different mowing pattern to reduce soil compaction and encourage the growth of upright grass. Additionally, it stops the grass from leaning, which gives the appearance of being uneven. To obtain a more uniform and healthier lawn, think about mowing your lawn in a new direction each time, such as horizontal, vertical, or diagonal.

Tip #5: Mow When the Grass is Dry

Mowing damp grass can result in clumping and uneven cuts, which can suffocate the grass underneath. For a cleaner, more precise cut, it is ideal to mow your lawn when the grass is dry. Furthermore, damp grass can jam the mower and make mowing more difficult.

Tip #6: Leave the Grass Clippings

Contrary to popular belief, there are some advantages to leaving grass clippings on your lawn. Grass clippings serve as a kind of organic mulch that helps soil retain moisture, control weed growth, and release nutrients as it decomposes. This procedure, referred to as "grasscycling," can lessen the demand for fertilizer and improve the health of your lawn.

Tip #7: Vary Your Mowing Schedule

Maintaining an ideal height can be accomplished by adjusting your mow frequency in accordance with grass growth. You might need to mow more regularly in the spring and during times of strong growth. You can cut back on the frequency during seasons of drought or sluggish growth. Maintaining the proper height and quality of your grass throughout the summer can be accomplished by keeping an eye on your lawn's development patterns and modifying your mowing plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Proper lawn mowing techniques are crucial for achieving a healthy and vibrant lawn during the summer season. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a lawn care service, following these tips from Blue Grass Lawn Service will help you maintain a well-manicured and thriving lawn. By implementing these tips, you'll be on your way to enjoying a beautiful and lush lawn throughout the summer months. If you are looking for additional services to help maintain and boost the health of your lawn, we may be able to help. Blue Grass Lawn Service has provided expert care to home and property owners for over 36 years in the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area.

Check out our Facebook page for more lawn care tips! 

31 Mar 2023
Insect Control
By Jacob Gardening, General, Lawn Care

Summer Insect Control

As spring is arriving, many homeowners are looking forward to a lush and green lawn to enjoy during the summer months. However, there is a common problem that can spoil the beauty of a well-manicured lawn: surface feeding insects. These pests can damage the grass by feeding on its blades and roots, causing brown patches, thinning, and even death in severe cases. To ensure that your lawn stays healthy and vibrant throughout the summer, it's essential to invest in a professional insect control service. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of such a service and provide tips for finding the right lawn care company.

Why Surface Feeding Insects Are a Problem:

Surface feeding insects are a common problem for lawns in the summer, as they are attracted to the lush, green grass that is abundant during this season. These pests, which include chinch bugs, sod webworms, and armyworms, feed on the blades and roots of the grass, causing damage that can be unsightly and expensive to repair. They are also known to attract other pests such as birds, moles, and skunks, which can cause additional damage to the lawn.

Why Summer Is The Time For Insect Control:

While surface-feeding insects can be a problem year-round, summer is the time when they tend to be most active. This is because summer is the time when grass is growing most vigorously, providing a plentiful food source for these pests. In addition, summer weather conditions are often favorable for insect growth and reproduction, leading to increased populations of these pests. For these reasons, summer is the time when it's most important to have a lawn service company come in and provide insect control services.

Benefits of a Professional Insect Control Service

Investing in a professional insect control service can provide numerous benefits for your lawn. Here are some of the main advantages:

  1. Early Detection: A professional lawn care company will be able to identify any potential insect problems early on, before they become a significant issue. By catching the problem early, you can prevent damage to your lawn and save money on costly repairs.
  2. Customized Treatment: Different types of surface feeding insects require different treatments, and a professional lawn care company will know the right treatment for your specific situation. They will also be able to customize the treatment to your lawn's unique needs, ensuring that your grass stays healthy and vibrant.
  3. Long-Term Protection: A professional insect control service will not only eliminate existing pests but also provide long-term protection against future infestations. By taking preventative measures, you can ensure that your lawn stays in good condition for years to come.

Investing in a professional insect control service for your lawn is essential to ensure that it stays healthy and vibrant during the summer months. By consulting with a reliable and trustworthy lawn care company, you can ensure that your lawn stays healthy and vibrant throughout the summer. At Blue Grass Lawn Service, we offer customized treatment plans that are designed to protect your lawn from surface feeding insects. Our experts will work with you to identify any potential problems and provide long-term protection against future infestations. Don't let insects ruin the beauty of your lawn – contact us today to inquire about our services or to receive a quote. 

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23 Mar 2023
By Jacob Gardening, General, Lawn Care

Tree And Shrub Care

As a lawn service company, we understand that maintaining a beautiful landscape is a top priority for many homeowners. Trees and shrubs not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, but they also provide numerous benefits, such as shade, privacy, and clean air. However, ensuring the health and vitality of your trees and shrubs requires expert care and attention. That's where Blue Grass Lawn Service comes in. Our 9 step tree and shrub care program provides nutrients, controls damage due to insects, and prevents damage due to hot, dry weather conditions.

At Blue Grass Lawn Service, we offer a range of tree and shrub care services designed to give your landscape the nutrients, protection, and conditions it needs to thrive. Our services include all types and sizes of trees, so whether you have a small garden or a sprawling estate, we have you covered.

Our Approach

The first step in our tree and shrub care program is a thorough inspection. Our experts will assess the overall health of your trees and shrubs, identify any potential issues, and recommend a customized treatment plan based on the specific needs of your landscape. We believe that a tailored approach is key to achieving optimal results.

Once we have identified any issues, we move on to the next step in our program: nutrient application. Trees and shrubs require a variety of nutrients to stay healthy and vibrant, and our team uses only the highest quality fertilizers to ensure that your landscape receives the necessary nutrients it needs to thrive.

In addition to nutrient application, our program also includes insect control. Insects can cause significant damage to trees and shrubs, and if left unchecked, can even lead to their death. Our team uses safe and effective insecticides to control pests and prevent further damage to your landscape.

Another critical aspect of tree and shrub care is preventing damage due to hot, dry weather conditions. Summers can be brutal in some parts of the country, and prolonged periods of heat and drought can take a toll on even the hardiest trees and shrubs. Our team uses advanced watering techniques to keep your landscape hydrated and healthy, even in the hottest and driest of conditions.

Benefits

By enrolling in our tree and shrub care program, you can enjoy the following benefits:

  1. Improved Health: Our program provides your trees and shrubs with the essential nutrients, water, and care they need to remain healthy and vibrant.
  2. Increased Property Value: A healthy and beautiful landscape can significantly increase the value of your property.
  3. Enhanced Aesthetics: A flourishing landscape will enhance the overall appearance of your property, making it more appealing to visitors and potential buyers.
  4. Reduced Risk of Damage: Our program includes measures to control insects and diseases, prevent weather-related damage, and provide winter protection to minimize the risk of damage to your trees and shrubs.

Tree and shrub care is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy and beautiful landscape. At Blue Grass Lawn Service, we offer a comprehensive 9-step tree and shrub care program that provides your landscape with the necessary nutrients, protection, and conditions to thrive. By letting us take care of your lawn service needs, you can enjoy a flourishing landscape that enhances the overall health and appearance of your property while increasing its value. Contact us today to learn more about our tree and shrub care services and how we can help you achieve your dream landscape.

 

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