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Get ready for Spring lawn care!
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items Here are some of my tried and true lawn care recs for my area in Zone 7a (transitional US states). Also included are some of my favorite lawn products for landscaping and hardscaping! Always read product labels on chemicals and know when, where, and how to apply before using any recs especially when humans and animals are present! Some products listed may not be sold in certain states due to chemical restrictions.
Sections
5
Kill those pesky weeds
Looking for balance
Getting things level
Tool, accessories, and other fun stuff
Let's talk grass seed
Kill those pesky weeds
Here are some of the herbicides I've used on my lawn that covers pre and post emergent! Always read product labels and instructions! When mixing chemicals in a sprayer or spreader, its always a good idea to make sure you're not combining 2 chemicals that can have adverse affects on your lawn.
I previously used Lesco, but wasn't able to access it easily in my area and this has done just as good at preventing and managing crabgrass. I have a fescue/bluegrass yard which is what this is recommended for, but I would strongly suggest knowing your grass types before applying as it can kill or prevent certain grass types. Best to apply in late spring to early summer just before the hot months to prevent crabgrass from germinating.
Lebanon Prodiamine 0.58G Biodac 40.5-lbs. 20000-sq ft Pre-Emergent Crabgrass control
A staple in my lawn care routine. Torocity acts as a pre and post emergent herbicide so you have flexibility on when to apply where some products are only a preemergent that have to be applied at a specific time. Kills broadleaf and grassy weeds which is convenient to have in one product. You can also mix in a tank sprayer with other products but make sure both are compatible and apply at the recommended rates. I applied this at the same time I reseeded an area and it worked great but stopping weed growth and allowing the new grass seed to take root without competition from weeds.
Atticus Torocity Herbicide Concentrate - 8 OZ - Mesotrione
2,4-D is essential for anyone taking care of their own lawn. I primarily mix it with other weed killers to spot spray broadleaf weeds like dandelion and clover but covers much more as a selective herbicide. It is a very strong, selective post emergent that kills weeds to the root. It can be highly toxic to humans/animals so I mainly spot spray and wait for it to dry before revisiting the area. WEAR PROTECTION ON FACE AND SKIN WHEN APPLYING!
Hi-Yield 2,4-D Selective Weed Killer Concentrate - 32 oz
If you are mixing any products in a tank sprayer for a blanket spray of your lawn, I highly recommend using a spray pattern indicator like this. Too much product in one area can cause adverse effects like killing grass, but too little or no product can lead to weeds popping through. A spray pattern indicator dye gives you a visual of where you've sprayed so you get complete coverage without overdoing it. Easy to mix and saves money in the long run by avoiding overspraying expensive chemicals!
IKE'S Ikes 32-oz Spray Pattern Indicator
If you are a sprayer like me, a surfactant is essential. Surfactants are required for several products to work effectively. It acts like a binding agent between the product and anything it touches. Essentially, it helps the product stick to things like the leaf of a dandelion or clover so the chemical can work its magic, rather than the product washing away or rolling off. Great for getting full coverage on weeds and increasing effectiveness.
Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides Non-Ionic, 16oz, 1 Pint
For a more cost effective crabgrass pre emergent, this is a great option. I used it last fall and saw a visible change from year to year after 1 application. While it’s a 4 step plan noted on the packaging, I used step 1 and applied my own post emerg...
Menards® Premium Crabgrass Preventer Lawn Fertilizer
Cheap but effective weed and grass killer for use along fence lines, driveways or vent wells. Works super quick and you can see the plant or grass begin to wither and turn white within hours so you know it’s working. I use it on weeds around my driv...
BioAdvanced 24 -oz Trigger spray Weed and Grass Killer
Looking for a trusted crabgrass prevention with added Nitrogen? This Lesco Prodiamine Crabgrass Prevention is a solid addition to any lawn care routine. Lesco is a reliable, trusted brand in the lawn care industry and I've seen a huge difference in my lawn from 1 use. Its harder to find and a bit more expensive than the typical Scotts or Pennington herbicides, but it is worth it!
LESCO Stonewall 0.37% 13-0-0 25%Stabilized Nitrogen Pre ...
If you're looking for a post emergent blanket approach to weeds after they've popped up, this one from Gordon's offers 5 key ingredients to target broadlead and grassy plus netsedge control. Works quickly so you see results fast and usable on most grass types. Easy to spray and comes in multiple sizes including ready to spray or concentrated.
Gordon's Trimec Platinum All in One Weed Control Concentrate, 32 oz. at Tractor Supply Co
If you struggle to control nutsedge in your yard like I do, Sedgehammer+ is the perfect herbicide for you. The + version means it has surfactant added which eliminates the need to add a surfactant and is easy to mix. The regular Sedgehammer does not have a surfactant, so you can choose based on what you have or want to do.
SedgeHammer+Plus Turf Herbicide - Controls Nutsedge and Broadleaf Weeds - 13.5 g Packet by Gowan
Looking for balance
For most of us, our soil is not 100% ideal for the type of grass we want. Here are some products I've used to test and treat my lawn to ensure the pH balance is in check for optimal color and growth of grass!
A good soil meter is essential for getting your lawn a lush green and healthy look. There are tons of meters and test kits to choose from but I prefer this digital model with 1 prong that tests for sunlight, moisture, PH, and temp. This is a simple to use option that gives a fairly accurate idea of your soil's health when you're looking to balance the PH, water, or plant new seed.
4-in-1 Soil Meter Digital
If your soil is too acidic or it is noticably too firm with poor drainage, you may benefit from adding lime. Lime neutralizes high acidity and allows nitrogen to absorb better which loosens hard soils. Always check your pH before applying lime and only apply at the recommended ratios. Its crazy how pivotal a role pH plays when it comes to soil health. This pelletized lime releases slower and is much cleaner to apply than pulverized lime which can be messy and act too quickly for some lawns.
Soil Doctor Pelletized Lawn Lime 40 pounds Organic Lime pH balancer
Scotts may not get the thumb of approval in some lawn care forums, but I've had decent success using this starter fertilizer on newly seeded areas. I probably wouldn't use this for a total yard revamp, but it worked well in a couple small places I reseeded. The hose attachment makes it easy to throw on and spray.
Scotts Turf Builder Starter Food 32-fl oz 600-sq ft 7-12-15 Lawn Starter Fertilizer
Getting things level
Here are some tools and products I've used that have made my life easier. Say goodbye to the ruts, valleys, craters, and divots and say hello to a smooth, flat lawn!
If you have any ruts or divots in your yard from animals, pets, or general low spots, this is a great tool to add to the garage for making your yard nice and flat. Specifically designed to smooth out leveling sand, peat moss, fill dirt, or soil.
VEVOR 48-in Steel Lawn and leaf rake with Steel Handle
This compost and manure is great to add on top of existing grass and soil if you're looking to increase moisture, better drainage, or level low spots. Yes, it does have a certain smell, but adding organic material is essential for a healthy lawn.
Hapi-Gro Timberline 40-lbs. Organic Compost and manure Provides organic nutrients
If drainage is an issue in your soil, I recommend adding some sand for any leveling projects. A good ratio of fill dirt, sand and compost allows your soil to breath and drain when you have a dense soil type. You can buy this mixture at a local landscaping supply store, but its usually cheaper to mix it up on your own.
Quikrete 50 lb. All-Purpose Sand 115251
The main soil I used for leveling this past fall. You can go with just about any top soil as they're all about the same in my opinion, but this is one I've used. Mix it up with sand, compost/manure and spready in low areas to allow grass to come back through for a level lawn.
Lawn 40 Pound(s) All-purpose Top soil
Tool, accessories, and other fun stuff
I LOVE THIS MOWER! There's always the debate of gas vs electric mowers, but buy and use whatever you want. I already had several Kobalt tools that were 24V so it just made sense for me to get the mower. I previously had a gas push mower that broke down on me, so I went with this and it has been super convenient not having to fill up a gas can and do oil changes, etc.. It still requires you to charge your batteries in advance, but I think it is well worth the money. My yard is around a ¼ acre and takes me about 1.5 hours to mow my lawn. If you have a bigger yard, I would suggest getting a larger deck. This folds up and stores away NICELY!!
Kobalt 48V MAX (24Vx2) 21-in Dual Blade Self-Propelled Mower Kit, (2) 8.0Ah Batteries and Charger Included
Similar to why I bought the mower, this combo kit just made sense. They discontinued to 24V model, but I've heard the 40v is just as good if not better. These are lightweight and easy to handle, but have plenty of power to tackle any overgrown yards!
Kobalt Gen4 40-volt Cordless Battery String Trimmer and Leaf Blower and 4.0 Ah (Battery Included) (Charger Included)
A strong, durable shovel is essential for anyone doing their own yardwork! I like this one for the fiberglass handle and steel shovel head. Digs through dirt with ease!
Razor-Back PowerEdge 48 in. Fiberglass Handle Super Socket Digging Shovel 3594400
Nice, sturdy rake for the price! Great for leaves, grass clippings, leveling, and pulling weeds. The steel tines are durable and I've tested it against plenty of gravel. Light weight with a fiberglass handle and the added padding on the butt is a plus.
Kobalt 60-in L Fiberglass -Handle Forged steel Garden Rake
For my yard size, this spreader works pretty good. Holds up to 10k sqft of product so a decent amount depending on your yard size. If your have half an acre or less, I would give this a try for the price. At minimum, you may have to refill at some point depending on the settings and whether you're overseeding, fertilizing or applying weed and feed. Give it a try!
Sta-Green Precision Broadcast Spreader 32-lb Capacity Compatible with Fertilizer, Seed
Saves your shoulder and your time! A lot of Vevor products have popped up on my social media so I gave this a try and it didn't disappoint. The battery powered pump saves you from having to constantly pump and reduces wear and tear on your body. Useful for a variety of jobs like fertilizing, herbicides, and pesticides. Also gives you plenty of nozzle options for various spray patters!
VEVOR 4-Gallon 12-volt Battery Operated Plastic Backpack Sprayer with Adjustable Spray Pattern
If you've just put down new seed, there's not a better alternative to protecting it than EZ Straw, in my opinion. If you've ever worked hard to prep an area and sewn new seed, only for it to be washed away by rain or pecked by birds, you would love this seeding straw. Rather than using straw bails from a garden store, this packaged straw is almost guaranteed to be weed-free, so you don't have to worry about covering your fresh new grass with something that could have negative effects! The binding agent is an added bonus that keeps seed in place. Also helps reduce water usage by retaining moisture so you don't have to water as much!
EZ Straw 2.5-cu ft Straw Mulch
Let's talk grass seed
This is solely based on where I live and which grass types work best for me. If it works for you, that's great too! This Sun & Shade seed mix from Jonathan Green is a great investment for anyone looking to take your average lawn to the next level. While its a little more expensive than the big box store brands, I highly recommend it due to the difference in quality and speed of germination. It's mixed with Tall fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass which makes it versatile for several climates and resistant to insects and diseases!
Black Beauty® Sun & Shade Grass Seed | Jonathan Green
I've used this in several spots on my lawn and it's worked every time! If you have any rough patches or spots that have been washed away due to rain, this is a great simple option to throw down for quick results. Germinates around 5-7 days with added fertilizer and mulch to reduce washout. Just spread it out and water!
Pennington Smart Patch Sun and Shade Grass Seed Mix, for Sun to Partial Shade, 5.5 lb.
I've used this seed a couple times and the results have been fairly consistent. For my grass zone and region, this was a great “budget” seed to overseed sunny areas where grass was thin. Proper watering is essential for best results with this seed as it doesn't perform well in droughts or with minimal watering. Highly recommend if you're looking for a fast germinating Tall Fescue that is easy to maintain!
Pennington The Rebels Tall Fescue Grass Seed
Similar to the other patch/repair seed I listed, this is a great option for quickly patching up any areas in your lawn that gets limited sunlight. Its a tall/fine fescue blend of seeds with added starter fertilizer and mulch to prevent erosion and seed displacement. When using seed with mulch and fertilizer, I give the jug a nice shake so it comes out more uniform as seeds can often settle at the bottom. Great to use under trees, against a house, and along fence lines!
Pennington Smart Seed and Smart Patch Dense Shade 2 - Lowe's