Get matched with top lawn care pros in Perry, MO

You should wait about seven to 10 days after you top dress your lawn to mow. This will give the ground ample time to absorb the nutrients from the sand, topsoil, and compost, and help facilitate growth before you trim the existing grass. It’s also best to water the lawn frequently in the week or so after you top dress and before you mow.

No, carpetgrass and St. Augustine grass are two different species. However this is a very common misconception and you may even find St. Augustine grass is mislabeled as carpetgrass. Carpetgrass does not have as much shade tolerance as St. Augustine grass, and has narrower blades with an alternating pattern (while St. Augustine grass has an opposite pattern). St. Augustine grass doesn’t have the weedy, high seedheads that carpetgrass produces.

It is not recommended to mow wet grass, including grass with morning dew. Mowing when wet can damage your lawn, your mower, and potentially cause injury. Wet grass blades are more likely to be torn rather than cut cleanly, which can lead to brown tips and increase the risk of fungal diseases. Additionally, wet clippings can clump together, smothering the grass underneath, and can clog your mower. For best results, wait until the grass is dry to the touch, which is often about two hours after morning dew has evaporated. Regular lawn mower maintenance is also important for a clean cut.

Signs of an overwatered lawn can be visual, physical, or related to pests and weeds. Visually, the grass may appear yellow, wilted, patchy, or thin instead of green and lush. You might also notice the presence of mushrooms, other fungal growths, or an increase in weeds like crabgrass. Physically, the soil may be waterlogged, soggy, and perpetually damp. An overwatered lawn often feels mushy or makes a squishing sound underfoot, even several hours after watering. Additionally, you may see an increase in pests such as grubs. To prevent overwatering, ensure your lawn has proper drainage through periodic aeration and adjust your watering schedule to meet its actual needs.