De-thatching

Removal of excess thatch is a cultural method which consists of racking up the excess of residue from your lawn. This layer of residue should not exceed 1.3 cm (1/2 inch). It plays few helpful roles such as : the decomposition of leaves which is an important element for your lawn, humidity retention and protects the collars of your plants. The layer should not be too thick either as it can also be harmful. It can encourage roots to surface and become a propitious habitat for serious insects and cause injurious diseases to your lawn. A solid racking in spring is a good stubble removal. Thatch removal equipments are usually rented or you can call on a professionnal landscaper.

Aeration

The cultural method of removing plugs (cores) of soil from the lawn, thereby, permitting water, air and nutrients to penetrate badly compacted soil. Rain and heavy trafic have a tendency to compact the soil. Almost all lawns need a good aeration at intervals of five to ten years, except those on very sandy soils. A compacted soil loses the porosity needed for good penetration of air and water ; elements which are indispensable for root growth. Aeration is suggested if you cannot easily push a pencil 10 cm into the soil. Aerators are usually rented or you can call on a professional landscaper.

Top dressing

Top dressing consists of spreading a soil mixture on the lawn surface, every 2 to 3 years. It is usually done in the spring or fall and is intended tu strengthen the lawn by rendering it thicker. Add seeds for shaded or sunny areas, according to your needs. Spread the top-dressing on the lawn using the back of a rake, making sure to work it well into the grass. Water until well saturated and keep moist until seeds germinate.

Mowing

Residential grass should not be mowed to less than 5 cm (2 inches) tall. According to the rules in general, we should never cut more than a third of the plant. Therefore, it is recommended to mow the lawn when at a height of 7 cm (3 inches).

Important: It is not recommended to mow the lawn within three days after using your treatment. The first time you mow your lawn after spraying, do not rake up the grass.

Attention! Mower blades should be sharpened frequently to ensure that the grass is cut, rather than torn off, as this gives a yellowish apperance to your lawn.

Watering

Simple rule : your lawn needs at least 5 cm (2 inches) of water per week, by rain or irrigation. The best time of day for watering is as soon as possible after dawn.

Phosphate free

This phosphate free program helps protect our waters against blue algae.