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Lawn and garden care

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June 10, 2005

So, after all the rain we have sun. It's great to be outside, and now that it's dry, we can finally get started on our lawns and gardens. Because I rent, I don't have to mow the lawn or anything like that. However, I know that more than 70% of homeowners maintain their own lawns, and us renters are in the minority. So, this one is for you homeowners.

Tip #1: do a soil test before you use any chemicals on your lawn or garden. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension provides a great service of soil testing for only $12/test. This test will tell you what your soil consists of, and they can tell you what you need to ad in order to grow what you want. The York County Cooperative Extension Office is located at 41 Shaw's Ridge Road, Sanford, ME 04073-9502. I have some soil sample kits, but you can also order them yourself online at www.umext.maine.edu.

Tip #2: leave your lawn as long as you can stand it. The longer the grass, the longer the roots below, and the more stabilized your lawn is going to be.

Tip #3: If you are going to use pesticides and/or fertilizer, READ THE DIRECTIONS and only use it where you really need it. Fertilizing your driveway (spillage) is just wasting you money. Often times a bag does not equal a lawn (how many lawns do you know are the same size as yours)?

Tip #4: Don't use fertilizer or pesticides right before it is going to rain. I know it's a common belief that the rain will help these chemical soak in. In actuality, the rain washes away any chemical you put down before it can get a chance to benefit your yard, and your money is has just washed down the storm drain.

Tip #5: If you are going to water your lawn and garden, do it early in the morning in short sessions, i.e. three 10 minute sessions, thirty minutes apart, this will give the water time to soak into the ground.

Tip #6: Be careful not to over water your lawn. Most lawns only need an inch of water a week. A good hard rain will make it so that you don't need to water for up to two weeks!

I appreciate your comments and questions. If you would like to get in contact with me you can call me at the Public Works Office at 282-1552 or email me at swojcoski@sacomaine.org. Reducing waste is the best way to start recycling!