1. Lawn Care Products

Fertilizer Application

There are organic fertilizers made up of natural products and there are synthetic fertilizers which are man-made and consist of mineral deposits and synthetic compounds. To promote sustained growth, the natural amount of magnesium, calcium and sulphur in the soil may be enough, depending on the kind of soil you have. However, potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus may need to be periodically applied in order to achieve a more healthy, beautiful lawn.  The quality and ratios of ingredients in fertilizer play a huge role in your lawn's results, along with the type of fertilizer being applied, amount, turf type and time of season the product is being applied.

Beware that some in-expensive, over-the-counter fertilizers may improve the appearance and colour of your lawn, but not the health of the root system, leading to fluctuating results, summer drought and insect damage. Furthermore, aggressive use of fertilizers containing too much nitrogen, as well as excessive watering can upset a lawn's natural pH level, create yellow grass, and even worse- create mould (appearing as white powder).

Lime Application

A soil test determines the type and quantity of lime one can apply to help balance the acidity of a turf, based on it's pH level. It also reveals mineral deficiencies in the soil.  Different turf types require different acidic levels to achieve the richest, greenest appearance possible.  If your lawn's pH level is significantly 'off', applying fertilizer and water won't do much good for your lawn.  It's a good idea to perform a soil test before applying any product(s) to your lawn.  A successful lime application helps yield a more desired pH level if you have many leaves, compost, or sand on your property.

Over-Seeding
Applying the correct blend and quantity of grass seed can revamp a 20+ year old lawn quickly, providing its applied at the correct time and receives the proper amount of water.  A lawn in poor condition may also benefit from adding some top soil (top dressing) along with seed and the correct fertilizer.  Important - if grass seed goes under the optimal temperature to germinate, it may go dormant, or, may not re-germinate.  Successful over-seeding can help thicken your lawn, fight disease, insects and grubs, and yield a consistent appearance.

2. Lawn Mowing

Four important factors to an even, consistent cut:

1-Correct deck levelling;

2-Sharp mower blades;

3-Proper tire pressure in all tires;

4-Correct mower for your property.

Deck Levelling

Most quality mower decks have 4 corner threaded adjustments. With the engine turned 'off', the mower deck should be frequently inspected and adjusted on a flat surface.

Fresh Blades

Blade sharpening should be left to a professional because they have the proper tools and safety equipment to do the job correctly. Depending on your grass type and its length before you cut it, mower blades generally need to be sharpened or replaced after 16 hours of use, maximum. Dull blades are hard on your mower's engine, belts and pulleys, and tear the grass rather than cut it, leaving the tips looking brown and burnt.

Tire Pressure

Incorrect tire pressure will have the same negative impact as incorrect mower deck adjustment. Tire pressure can decrease in colder weather and increase when exposed to heat. If a tire is old, cracked or incorrectly installed on a dirty or rusty wheel, it will leak in due time, so don't just check one, check them all.

Mower Size

The ideal mower is determined by your lawn's size and difficulty level - if your lawn includes hills, banks, ditches or obstacles, a small mower may work best. If you have a large lawn that is generally flat with fewer obstacles, a bigger mower may be more ideal. Properties in Mirabel and surrounding areas will generally benefit from a medium sized mower and will do a nicer job. Large mowers can create 'lawn scalping' when mowing an uneven turf.

*More Valuable Mowing Tips:

-Mowing a lawn too short can accelerate the growth of weeds;

-An inconsistent mowing schedule will also cause weeds to grow and promote crabgrass;

-Continually mowing in the same direction can cause divots (ruts) in the terrain. Change your direction frequently;

-Sharp turns or mowing too quickly can tear up a lawn, while wearing out your tires and transmissions. Be safe; never rush;

-Wear the appropriate gear to protect you from the sun and equipment you use;

-Always wear eye protection and hearing protection.

3. Hedge Trimming & Property Trimming

All clippings should be disposed of in a timely fashion as clippings will eventually suffocate the grass and can ruin parts of your lawn, similar to piles of leaves that aren't attended to.

Pruning, thinning, and elevating ornamental trees regularly significantly helps promote sufficient air circulation, good health, and a tidy appearance.  Similar to mowing blades, hedge trimmers and shears should be regularly sharpened by a professional to ensure a clean job. Dull trimmers can cause brownness and/or discoloration to the plant.

It's a good idea to hire a professional if you don't feel comfortable using a hedge trimmer, or cannot safely reach what you are planning to trim.