It takes more than just weekly mowing to keep a Sherman lawn in good condition. As you likely already know, different tasks need to be completed at various times of the year to keep the lawn at your rental property looking neat and green. Aerating and overseeding your yard are the two most essential lawn care operations you can perform in the fall. Astounded? For more information on why fall is the best time to get your grass ready for a thriving growth season, keep reading!
Why Not Spring?
When it comes to lawn care, most people believe there is very little to be done until spring. However, waiting until spring to prepare your yard for the growing season could be detrimental. In the spring, the earth is chilly and teeming with dormant weed seeds. This soil can become even more weed-infested after aeration, suffocating newly-emerging grasses in the process. In addition, young grass plants that haven’t had time to form deep root systems may perish if the summer heat arrives too early.
Why Fall is Best
But the ground is warmer in the fall, and there are fewer weed seeds. There is minimal competition for your new grass to thrive at this time of year because most annual weeds are dying. Aerating works best under these circumstances since it can be done without encouraging additional weed growth. It also permits recently overseeded grasses to establish deep roots before the onset of colder winter weather.
Won’t Cold Temperature Kill the Grass?
Many homeowners are concerned about the impact of cold or freezing temperatures on their new grass. There is no need to worry, though! Overseeding in the fall allows the grass to establish strong roots before winter arrives. The fresh grass will be able to withstand the winter and continue to thrive come April.
The Benefits of Aeration
If you wonder if aerating your rental property’s lawn is worth the time and expense, the answer is absolutely yes! Aeration reduces compaction and allows water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the root zone more easily and therefore improves the health of your soil. Consequently, the turf may grow more densely and healthily. It also reduces thatch buildup, improves drainage, and promotes a stronger root system.
Aerating can also make seeding or overseeding grass much more effective. This happens because the holes created by aeration cause the new grass seeds to meet with soil and establish roots more easily. The outcome is a thicker and lusher yard that any Sherman property manager would be proud to have.
Pro Tips to Aerate and Overseed a Healthy Lawn
A mechanical or hand aerator from your neighborhood hardware shop can be used to aerate the lawn on your rental property. Both varieties of aerators will take out tiny soil plugs from the lawn. However, even when utilizing a motorized aerator, the operation can be time-consuming and physically taxing. For this reason, many people choose to hire a professional for this task.
Aerate the entire lawn by making multiple passes in different directions to ensure uniform coverage. By doing this, you can be sure the lawn has been adequately aerated and is prepared to receive seed.
Choose a grass seed blend appropriate for your climate and lawn conditions when seeding or overseeding. Consult a professional in lawn care before purchasing grass, as the type of grass you choose is crucial. Spread the seed evenly across the lawn and water it frequently to keep the soil damp so that new seedlings can sprout.
By caring for it in the fall, you can prepare your lawn for a lush and healthy growing season the following year. Furthermore, a healthy lawn is the single best thing for luring tenants and sustaining high property values. However, if lawn care is not high on your priority list for property maintenance, you may want to consider hiring professionals.
At Real Property Management Legend, we offer comprehensive property maintenance services that can keep all parts of your investment property looking great. Contact us online today to learn more.
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