Mowing

• Cut lawn once a week.

• Mow in different patterns to avoid permanent ridges.

• Only remove top third of grass (about 1") with each cutting. For most lawns, the optimum height is two inches.

• Always use a sharp mower blade to prevent injury to grass.

Watering

• Provide lawn with approximately one inch of water per week.

• Water once deeply, instead of several times lightly.

• Water in early morning or evening to reduce evaporation.

Developing Healthy Soil and roots

• Test soil to determine which nutrients are needed. Contact a local County Extension Office or nursery for testing information.

• Feed lawns with a slow-release high nitrogen fertilizer about once every six weeks, beginning in the spring.

• Fertilize in late fall to keep roots healthy during the winter.

• Rake thatch (roots, dead leaf sheaths and rootstalks) in spring to allow mowed grass clippings to reach the soil.

• Aerating the soil a couple times a season may be necessary to allow water and nutrients to reach the grass roots.

Making for a Cleaner Environment

• Leave grass clippings on the lawn. They decompose quickly and put nutrients back into the soil.

• Avoid spilling gasoline by filling the mower gas tank only 3/4 full.

• Wipe up gasoline spills immediately.

• Check oil on lawn mower regularly. Add oil as needed.

• Check spark plug and clean or replace air filter each year.

• Every two years, take lawn mower to an experienced service technician for a safety and maintenance inspection.