Organic lawn care isn't difficult -- in fact, it can save time and money, while protecting you, your family, your pets and the environment.
Features of an organic lawn include:
- The turfgrass species is appropriate for your climate and space.
- Healthy soils with high organic matter and microbial activity.
- The grass is mowed high, and all grass clippings are left on the lawn.
- Mowing is done with sharp blades and with an energy efficient, low-emissions mower.
- Fallen leaves are mulched into the lawn (and any excessive leaves are composted).
- No synthetic products are added.
- Watering only occurs during dry spells or extreme stress.
- Turfgrass is allowed to enter dormancy according to the species.
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- Instead of heading to the store for chemicals, you'll order and perform a soil test.
- Instead of short, frequent watering, you'll water less often, but deeper.
- Instead of adding synthetic fertilizer, you'll add organic amendments only based on the needs of your soil.
If your lawn has been relying on synthetic fertilizers and weed killers for years, have patience as it will take time, potentially a few years, for your lawn to be fully broken from its dependency on chemicals. You might see more weeds in the transition period and will need a plan for the transition. Some growing pains should be expected.
The Department of Environmental Protection has developed an extensive website with all the information you will need to make the switch to organic lawn care.
There are many reasons to make the switch to organic lawn care with the biggest reasons being that an organic lawn is:
- Healthier for your kids
- Healthier for your pets
- Healthier for your lawn
- Healthier for the environment
In addition, an organic lawn with thick grass, deep roots, healthy soils, and energy-efficient maintenance practices can do a lot to store climate warming carbon, soak up stormwater, and provide the oxygen we breathe.
Photo by Sutsaiy Sangharn, 123RF
