Best lawn care providers near Wade, NC

To reduce landscaping costs, you can implement several strategies at every stage. Consider doing the work yourself (DIY) to save on professional labor fees. You can also repurpose existing features and materials from other home projects. When purchasing new items, choose more inexpensive materials and opt for softscaping over hardscaping where possible. Another effective method is to buy young plants or plant from seed, which is more cost-effective than purchasing mature plants.

In general, expect to mulch your leaves about once or twice every fall. You want there to be a decent amount of leaves on the ground, but not too much where it’s difficult for the mower to cut through.

It’s unlikely your leaves are a hazard, especially if you get to them while they’re dry. However, a couple of rare risks exist. University studies suggest that decaying leaves can produce organochlorines, toxic pollutants similar to man-made PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), so avoid keeping them in an enclosed area.

Also, leaves and compost may cause the growth of fungi that can cause diseases like histoplasmosis and aspergillosis, as well as mold spores that are unhealthy for human lungs. Again, severe issues are rare, but those with compromised immune systems or allergies to mold should wear face masks when directly handling leaves.

A pre-emergent herbicide is the most effective way to avoid stickers growing in your yard. However, if some manage to make it through, a post-emergent herbicide is the most effective way to kill them. However, environmental concerns exist when using chemicals on a lawn. Try vinegar or baking soda applications to kill sticker plants for a more natural yet still effective method.