Get matched with top lawn fertilization and treatment specialists in Headland, AL

It’s not required, but it is helpful if your goal is to produce new growth. Any fertilization should occur after the lawn is aerated and before the compost is applied. If you also plan to spread seed, you’ll want to do so after the fertilizer is applied and once the ground is damp, but not wet.

Many gardeners charge an hourly rate for their services, and your total cost will depend on the amount of services and the experience of the gardener. Gardeners with basic experience charge between $20 and $30 per hour, while a more experienced gardener can charge as much as $60 to $88 per hour.

The cost of lawn mowing is about $125, which you might need on a weekly or biweekly basis. However, the cost of soil testing averages about $1,450, which should only be done every three to five years. 

Lawn care is tough work—even when you hire pros, there’s no guarantee your grass won’t die (unless, of course, your company offers a guarantee). But lawn care companies don’t control the rain or watering restrictions. Your type of grass also impacts the type of care required to keep a lush lawn—and how much that care costs. Talk to a lawn care pro to determine the best times to treat your lawn based on type of grass and your climate.

The best time to apply fertilizer to your lawn is in early fall, though some climates necessitate a different schedule. In most cases, avoid fertilizing late into fall, as this opens up your yard to winter injuries and poor health (though this is a great time to kill weeds.) You should avoid early spring fertilization, as this helps the grass leaves grow, but at the expense of developing root systems. Remember to water your lawn after fertilizing to increase its effectiveness and reduce the likelihood of runoff during a rainstorm.