Question 1

Should I fertilize soil before planting grass seed?

Accepted Answer

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Properly preparing the soil for planting grass seed may include applying fertilizer several weeks before spreading the seed if you plan to overseed the lawn. However, in most cases involving a brand-new lawn, spreading a starter fertilizer along with the grass seed will give it the best chance of taking root quickly and growing strong.

Question 2

How much does professional lawn care cost?

Accepted Answer

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Routine lawn care costs between $50 and $250 per service, with an average of around $100. Most homeowners need one service per week through the spring and summer, and many switch to snow removal services in the winter. The price you’ll pay will depend on a few different factors:

Size of your lawn
Complexity of your lawn layout and obstructions
Requested services
Home’s location
How quickly your grass grows

Size of your lawn
Complexity of your lawn layout and obstructions
Requested services
Home’s location
How quickly your grass grows

Question 3

How do I know when to apply pre-emergent herbicide?

Accepted Answer

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The best time to fight crabgrass with pre-emergent herbicide is when forsythias tend to bloom. In the mid-Atlantic region, this is usually between April and May. Even if you're late to apply the herbicide, it’s effective as long as the crabgrass plant has fewer than five leaves.

Question 4

Can poor lawn conditions affect home value?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, especially for properties focusing on curb appeal. A well-maintained landscape supports visual and environmental attractiveness, potentially increasing desirability.

Question 5

Can dry St. Augustine grass come back?

Accepted Answer

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If the grass is dead, you cannot bring it back to life. However, you can grow new grass in its place or try the methods mentioned above to revive the grass if it isn’t entirely dead. You can expect St. Augustine grass to come back after moderate droughts, but it will suffer significant nutrient loss after an extended period of drought.