Frequently Asked Questions
What to do with areas of yard that wont grow grass?
Here are some options for areas of yard where grass won't grow:
Plant drought-tolerant ground cover plants like clover, sedum, or pachysandra.
Use mulch or wood chips to cover the bare spots.
Install a patio, walkway, or other hardscape feature.
Consider creating a low-maintenance garden bed with native plants.
Why is my bagger not picking up grass?
Here are some possible reasons why your bagger is not picking up grass:
The bagger is full and needs to be emptied.
The bagger attachment is not properly installed or secured.
The mower deck or bagger chute is clogged with grass clippings.
The mower blade is dull and needs to be sharpened.
The ground is too wet, causing the grass to clump instead of being picked up.
How can I improve lawn grass growth?
Here are some tips to improve lawn grass growth:
Aerate the soil regularly to improve oxygen and water circulation.
Apply a balanced lawn fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Water the lawn deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth.
Overseed bare or thinning areas to fill in the grass.
Adjust the mowing height to leave the grass a bit longer.
What causes poor grass growth in lawns?
Several common factors can contribute to poor grass growth in lawns, including:
Inadequate soil nutrients or pH levels
Excessive thatch buildup
Improper mowing height or frequency
Lack of water or overwatering
Pest infestations or disease
How do you fix patchy grass areas?
To fix patchy grass areas, aerate the soil, overseed the bare spots, and apply a lawn fertilizer. Ensure adequate water and mow regularly to promote healthy grass growth.
How should I maintain my Sherwood AR lawn?
Mow regularly (1-2 times per week) to maintain a healthy, well-groomed appearance.
Water deeply (1-2 inches per week) to encourage deep root growth and drought resistance.
Fertilize 2-3 times per year with a balanced lawn fertilizer to promote lush greenery.
Aerate the soil annually to improve water and nutrient absorption.
Overseed in the fall to fill in bare spots and thicken the lawn.
What lawn care tips work best in Arkansas?
Here are some effective lawn care tips for Arkansas:
Aerate your lawn in spring and fall to improve soil oxygen and water absorption.
Overseed cool-season grasses like fescue in the fall for a lush, green lawn.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and late fall to nourish your grass.
Mow at the highest recommended height to encourage deep roots and shade out weeds.
Water deeply and infrequently to build a strong, drought-resistant root system.
When is the best time to aerate my lawn?
The best time to aerate your lawn is in the fall when the grass is actively growing. This allows the soil to recover and the grass to fill in any bare spots before winter dormancy.
What type of grass thrives in Sherwood AR?
Tall fescue and Bermuda grass are well-suited grasses for Sherwood, Arkansas, as they can withstand the region's warm, humid climate and handle periods of drought.
Why isnt my grass green in North Little Rock?
Your grass may not be green in North Little Rock due to factors like lack of proper fertilization, inadequate watering, thatch buildup, or pest/disease issues. Consult a local lawn care professional to diagnose and address the specific needs of your lawn.
How often should grass be fertilized in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, cool-season grasses like fescue should be fertilized 2-3 times per year, typically in the fall, late winter, and early spring. Warm-season grasses like bermuda should be fertilized 1-2 times during the growing season, usually in late spring and mid-summer.
What are common lawn pests in Little Rock?
Grubs: These white, C-shaped larvae feed on grass roots, leading to brown patches and easy peeling of the turf.
Fire ants: Aggressive, mound-building ants that can damage lawns and be a nuisance for homeowners.
Chinch bugs: Small insects that suck the sap from grass, resulting in yellow, dead patches.
Armyworms: Caterpillars that can quickly devour large areas of grass, leaving behind bare, brown spots.
How do I choose a lawn care service?
When choosing a lawn care service, consider their reputation for quality work, consistent service, and customer satisfaction. Look for a full-service provider with expertise in various landscaping tasks to meet your needs efficiently.
How can I naturally control weeds in my lawn?
Here are some tips for naturally controlling weeds in your lawn:
Regularly mow your lawn at the recommended height to discourage weed growth.
Overseed your lawn to establish a dense, healthy grass that can outcompete weeds.
Apply corn gluten meal in early spring to prevent germination of annual weeds.
Hand-pull or spot-treat stubborn weeds to prevent them from spreading.
Aerate your lawn annually to improve soil health and grass density.
Whats the best way to mow a lawn?
Mow at the right height for your grass type, typically 3-4 inches.
Mow regularly, cutting no more than 1/3 of the blade height at a time.
Use a sharp, well-maintained mower blade to avoid tearing the grass.
Mow in different directions each time to prevent ruts and uneven growth.
Leave grass clippings on the lawn to provide nutrients and moisture.
How do I resolve drainage issues in my yard?
Here are some tips to resolve drainage issues in your yard:
Identify the source of the problem by observing water flow during heavy rain.
Install a French drain or dry well to divert excess water away from the problem area.
Grade the land to create a slope that directs water runoff away from your home's foundation.
Plant vegetation that absorbs water, such as trees, shrubs, or a rain garden.
Consider installing a sump pump to remove standing water from low-lying areas.
How much sun does my lawn need to thrive?
For a healthy, thriving lawn, most grasses require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Some varieties can tolerate partial shade, but full sun exposure is ideal for optimal growth and green appearance.
How do I prepare my lawn for Arkansas summers?
Aerate the lawn to improve soil oxygen and water penetration.
Apply a slow-release fertilizer to provide balanced nutrients over the summer.
Mow the lawn at a higher setting to retain moisture and inhibit weed growth.
Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Consider overseeding with heat-tolerant grass varieties to fill in bare spots.
Can overseeding help with thin lawns in Sherwood?
Overseeding can help improve thin lawns in Sherwood by introducing new grass seed to fill in bare or sparse areas. It helps establish a thicker, healthier lawn by increasing grass density.
How do I control lawn diseases in North Little Rock?
To control lawn diseases in North Little Rock, employ proper mowing, watering, and fertilization practices. Identify and address the specific disease affecting your lawn, and consider using fungicides as a last resort. Maintain good lawn health through proactive care.
Whats the best grass type for Little Rock homes?
The best grass types for Little Rock homes are:
Tall Fescue: Thrives in the humid climate and handles shade well.
Bermuda Grass: Tolerant of heat and drought, and grows rapidly.
Zoysia Grass: Provides a dense, lush lawn and is low-maintenance.
How can I keep my lawn green during droughts?
Water your lawn deeply and infrequently, 1-2 times per week, to encourage deep root growth.
Apply a drought-tolerant lawn seed mix that includes fescue or ryegrass.
Mow your lawn higher, 3-4 inches, to retain moisture in the soil.
Apply a lawn fertilizer formulated for drought conditions to strengthen the grass.
Consider installing an irrigation system with smart technology to optimize water usage.
What lawn care practices conserve water in Arkansas?
Aerate soil regularly to improve water absorption and reduce runoff.
Apply mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Select drought-tolerant grass species and native plants that require less water.
Water deeply and infrequently, early in the morning, to minimize evaporation.
Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to plant roots.
How do I winterize my lawn in Sherwood AR?
Aerate the lawn to improve soil oxygen and water absorption.
Apply a slow-release lawn fertilizer to promote root growth.
Overseed the lawn with a cold-hardy grass seed mix.
Raise mower height to 3-4 inches to protect grass blades.
Remove fallen leaves and debris regularly to prevent matting.
What is the ideal mowing height for Arkansas lawns?
The ideal mowing height for Arkansas lawns is typically 3-4 inches. This height helps to maintain a healthy, lush lawn by encouraging deeper root growth and shading the soil to retain moisture.
How can I improve soil quality in my backyard?
Add organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and nutrient content.
Aerate the soil to increase air and water infiltration.
Test the soil pH and adjust it to the optimal range for your plants.
Plant cover crops or incorporate green manure to replenish nutrients.
Avoid compaction by limiting foot traffic and using mulch around plants.
When should I start spring lawn care in Arkansas?
Begin spring lawn care in Arkansas in late March or early April when daytime temperatures consistently reach 50-60°F. This is the optimal time to aerate, overseed, apply pre-emergent herbicides, and fertilize for a healthy, lush lawn.
How do I prevent lawn grubs in North Little Rock?
Apply grub control products in early summer to prevent lawn grubs from developing in North Little Rock.
Encourage healthy, dense grass growth as this makes it harder for grubs to thrive.
Aerate the lawn regularly to improve soil health and allow treatments to penetrate effectively.
Monitor for signs of grub damage like brown, patchy grass and treat promptly if issues arise.
Whats the most effective organic fertilizer for Arkansas lawns?
Organic fertilizers well-suited for Arkansas lawns include composted manure, bone meal, and seaweed extracts. These provide slow-release nutrients to promote steady, healthy lawn growth while improving soil structure.
