A healthy, lush lawn doesn't happen by accident. Consistent, well-timed care throughout the season is what separates a yard that looks great from one that struggles every summer.
Mowing at the Right Height
Set your mower blade to 3–3.5 inches for most NJ lawns. Cutting too short stresses turf and exposes soil to sun and weed seeds. Never remove more than ⅓ of the blade in a single mow.
Watering: Deep and Infrequent
Most lawns need about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply 2–3 times per week rather than lightly every day. Deep watering encourages roots to grow down, building drought resistance.
Fertilizing on Schedule
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring and a high-potassium winterizer in fall. Avoid fertilizing during summer heat stress, which can burn turf and encourage disease.
Weed and Pest Control
Apply pre-emergent herbicide in early spring before crabgrass germinates. Spot-treat broadleaf weeds as they appear. For grubs and surface insects, treat in late summer when larvae are young and near the surface.