By Molly Gallagher Burk
Summer in Maine means lots of time spent playing and lounging on our lush, grassy lawns; but all of that green grass can come with a price. The products we use on our lawns and gardens can run off into our waterways and be absorbed into our air. Lawn chemicals such as weed and pest killers, fungicides and synthetic fertilizers have all been linked to serious health problems.
Eco-friendly lawn care is an important part of a green home strategy. Make sure the products you’re using are good for you and for the environment. Organic lawn care methods are not only safer — they are also more effective in the long term.
Mow high and let the clippings lie: Keeping your lawn at a minimum of 3” high makes for vigorous roots and helps shade out weeds. Grass clippings make great mulch and help keep moisture in. And try a push mower for a great workout and healthier air!
Water only as needed: The average lawn can use over 20,000 gallons of water each summer. About one inch of water per week is plenty. Try using an elevated rain barrel to collect water and use as needed.
Test your soil before applying nutrients: A routine soil test is a quick and inexpensive way to check the levels of essential soil nutrients. Simply take a sample of your soil and send it to a lab for analysis. The cooperative extension service in Maine will provide this test to you for a minimal fee.
Apply organic fertilizers: Lawns that have been established for at least 10 years generally do not need fertilizers. Younger lawns often need nitrogen. When needed, apply on a dry day in September.
Manage weeds: If weeds are taking over, liberally apply perennial ryegrass seed all season long.
Replace grass with native, non-invasive plants: Plants, flowers and grasses that are native to Maine are the most attuned to our soil, water and climate. They will thrive with less care than other imported varieties. (Avoid annual ryegrass.)
For more info, visit www.safelawns.org and www.yardscaping.org.
