Forget the HD TV.
Millennial homeowners would sooner have an enviable lawn than a top-of-the-line television—a preference in surprising contrast to that of older homeowners seasoned in lawn care.
Millennials’ affinity for their lawns—a finding from recently released research by John Deere—comes despite a lack of maintenance know-how.
Millennial homeowners who wish to make their lawn the best on the block should follow basic lawn care principles, says Mark Schmidt, principal scientist for John Deere.
“By learning best practices and using properly maintained equipment, homeowners will likely see an improvement in the overall appearance of their lawns,” Schmidt says.
These principles are:
1. Water – Water your lawn before the sun reaches midday, preferably before 10 a.m. Water for a long time once, instead of watering for a short amount of time more often. Avoid mowing the lawn if it is wet.
2. Food – Fertilize cool season turf in early spring and fall. Fertilize warm season turf in spring and summer.
3. Height – Mow the lawn no more than one-third of the grass blade down—any more can cause damage and an unsightly lawn.
4. Time – As with watering, mow your lawn around peak sun periods—in the morning or late afternoon is best. This minimizes stress to the lawn.
5. Maintenance – Tune-up your mower once each year according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This may include sharpening the blade, inflating the tires and replacing the spark plug.
Following these principles to the letter will keep your lawn lush and thriving for years to come. Who says you need a television?
Source: John Deere
