Lawn Mowing and Landscaping

Landscaping

Landscaping changes your property to depict an aesthetically-pleasing environment. It is important for gardeners to pick out landscaping plants, such as trees, shrubs and ornamental flowers, that fit with their desired motif. Also, you must consider the type of grass you are growing when landscaping your lawn. Choosing too many trees and shrubs may create a shady lawn. Most grass types need full sunlight for healthy growth. If you do want a shady lawn, choose shade-tolerant grass to grow, such as St. Augustine, zoysia or fescue.

Mulching around your plants will not only protect them from the lawnmower's blades but also contribute a uniform look to your landscape. In addition, mulch conserves water moisture, keeps weeds at bay and helps maintain consistent soil temperatures. Gardeners may use either synthetic or organic mulch types. Synthetic mulch types consist of crushed brick, sea glass, gravel or rubber. Organic mulch types include pine needles, compost, hay, shredded bark or pine cones. For a clean-looking landscape, decide on one type to use consistently throughout your landscape.

Lawnmower blades must be sharpened at the beginning of the growing season. Dull blades wound grass, which creates an entryway for fungal diseases to enter. Also, it is important to allow your grass to grow to its recommended height before mowing. For example, Kentucky bluegrass should be kept at a height of 2 to 2-1/2 inches in the spring and fall months, according to the Ohio State University Extension. In the summer, allow your grass blades to grow slightly higher to help them recover from heat stress.

During the height of the grass-growing season, you may need to mow once a week. Choose a time, when your grass blades aren't wet, to prevent clippings from clumping on the lawn. Mow in a different direction each time. Make sure that you are mowing your lawn in 90-degree angles to prevent pushing the grass in one direction. Spread a thin layer of grass clippings over the lawn to contribute additional nutrients.