Get matched with top lawn irrigation specialists in Carrizo Springs, TX

The screwdriver test involves trying to push a screwdriver into your lawn. If it goes in easily, you’re likely overwatering and should cut back. If there’s moderate resistance, you have a good watering schedule and soil composition. If there’s a lot of resistance or you can’t get the screwdriver into the soil, you may need to aerate your lawn to reduce compaction and increase your watering schedule.

Almost all lawns can benefit from aeration, but not all lawns need aeration services. If your lawn has puddles of standing water, uneven grass growth, thinning grass, dries out quickly, or has a good amount of thatch, aeration is worthwhile. On the other hand, if your lawn is healthy and your soil isn’t too compact, you may be able to skip a year of aeration.

The easiest way to rough up soil to accept grass seed and provide the best opportunity for its growth is to make several passes over the area with a garden tiller and rake away the loosened vegetation and debris. However, in some cases, very hard ground may require using a shovel or pick to break up pieces into smaller chunks that the tiller can handle more easily.

Mowing is one of the most important ways to maintain your lawn because it encourages grass to grow horizontally, creating a fuller, more uniform yard. On top of mowing your lawn, you’ll want to routinely fertilize your lawn, water it regularly, and take care of pests the moment they arise.