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Create a Beautiful Lawn With These Fertilization Techniques

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 16:39:35 GMT

Applying fertilizer can help you develop lush and green grass. However, it’s important to follow the proper fertilization methods to get the best results. Here, the lawn care professionals of Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, share their expert insights into the best fertilizing techniques and how you can attain the perfect yard.

For a healthy lawn, read their top fertilization tips:

Buy the Right Product: To start, purchase the right product for your grass. Fertilizers are categorized by the amount of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium they contain—the main ingredients that hungry lawns crave. A soil test can determine what’s lacking in your yard and help you choose the best fertilization mixtures. Most experts recommend using a slow-release combination, in which the nutrients break down over time, giving your plants a regular dose of nourishing food.
Check Your Calendar: Getting the most out of your fertilizer is largely about timing. Your first springtime session should take place once the soil is unfrozen and the grass has started to grow. Apply a second batch of fertilizer about four weeks later to support springtime growth spurts. After that, give your garden another application every six to eight weeks until the final pre-winter treatment.
Consider Additional Steps: To get the best results, combine fertilization with other lawn care steps. Consider aerating the ground before applying the fertilizer. Aeration provides ample access to the soil, so the nutrients of the fertilizer can reach the roots of the grass. Also, make sure you water your yard as needed. It is best to water your grass two days before fertilizing, and then lightly water immediately after.

To get luscious green grass, follow these fertilization techniques. For the best results, invest in professional lawn care treatments. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provides expert services, from irrigation to aeration, in the Cincinnati area. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to receive a free quote.

What Is Lawn Aeration?

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 16:06:32 GMT

To maintain a beautiful yard, basic lawn care practices such as proper mowing, fertilizing, and watering should be performed. But there’s another vital element to a healthy turf that can bring back the vigor of your grass—lawn aeration . The process involves removing small plugs of thatch and soil from your landscape. The key is to know the best time to aerate and the right equipment to use.

How Does Lawn Aeration Work?

By perforating the soil with small holes, you promote a healthy exchange of air between the soil and atmosphere. This allows water and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots properly so it can grow deeper and stronger. You can do this manually or by using an automated machine.

The main purpose for aeration is to alleviate soil compaction. Compacted soil prevents the proper circulation of air and essential nutrients because of decreased pore space. This can starve the grass roots and result in the thinning or browning of your lawn. With proper aeration, you can get air and nutrients down into the roots, producing a healthier and greener yard.

When Is the Best Time to Aerate?

Timing is crucial when aerating lawns. The preferred time of year is during spring and fall, which are known as periods of high growth. Performing it in fall will allow the soil to recover prior to dormancy in the winter months. Aerate grasses in the spring to encourage growth during the summer.

The type of grasses that make up your lawn can also determine the best time for aeration. For instance, warm-season grasses such as St. Augustine, Bermuda grass, and Buffalo grass, should undergo aeration in the late spring, while cool grasses can be done either in spring or early autumn.

For quality lawn aeration services, rely on Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. These lawn care experts will help your grass grow green and strong. They also specialize in fertilization, irrigation installation, and weed and grub control. Call them at (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.

How to Choose the Best Fertilizer for Your Lawn

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 14:58:22 GMT

Fertilization provides your grass with the nutrients it needs to create lush, thick growth. Not all fertilizers are suitable for all landscapes, however. Just like people, different grasses require different diets. Here, the professionals of Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, explain how to choose the right solution to suit your garden’s needs.

What All Fertilizers Should Include

When you shop for fertilizer, you’ll notice the bags display three numbers. These indicate the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium included in the mixture. While nitrogen ensures a lush color, phosphorous strengthens roots and potassium builds strong plant cell tissue.

Different types of fertilization materials will have different ratios of these three elements to suit diverse needs. Some serve to feed your lawn while also killing weeds, for instance, while others are “feed only” formulas.

There are also different formats of fertilization materials. Liquids absorb quickly but require reapplication every few weeks. Granular models are easier to control when applying and require less frequent reapplication. You can also look to organic types, which break down and take action slowly.

How to Find the Right Type for Your Lawn

The key to finding the right fertilization option for your lawn depends on the type of grass and quality of the soil. Before buying any fertilizer, check the pH level of your soil. Plants grow best with a pH of 6 to 7, ranking neutrally on the pH scale of 0, most acidic, to 14, most alkaline.

Remember that it’s not only about what you feed your lawn but also how and when. Already established lawns reap the most benefits from fertilization during active growth periods—early spring and fall for most types. Aerate beforehand and use a lawn spreader to evenly distribute the solution.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, has more than 25 years of experience helping clients create lush, healthy gardens with the right fertilization approach. First-time customers get a free soil pH test. They can get you strong results, even where other lawn care services have failed—as their online testimonials show. To discuss your needs, give them a call directly at (513) 755-9434 .

Why You Should Have an Irrigation System Installed in Your Lawn

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 18:16:03 GMT

If you want a green oasis in your yard, you need to water your lawn regularly. An irrigation system eases the process, sparing you the trouble of lugging out an old-fashioned hose and sprinkler. Here’s what you need to know about irrigation systems.

What Are the Benefits of an Irrigation System?

1. Save You Precious Time

An irrigation system allows for automatic watering. It can be structured to specifically address those areas of the lawn that require more moisture, such as patches of grass that get more sun, which cause water to evaporate more quickly. With this process on autopilot, you don't have to stress about watering your lawn after work and can focus on fun activities, like spending time with your kids.

2. Help the Environment

An irrigation system allows you to do your part in environmental conservation. Since you can strategically place and time your automated watering, you don't have to use as much water as you might when you haphazardly soak the lawn with a hose. You also don't have to worry about forgetting to turn off a manual sprinkler and wasting additional water.

3. Give You Greater Freedom & Flexibility

Going on holidays when you have a lawn to take care of can quickly get complicated, as you have to find someone to water the grass. An irrigation system means you can take off for a trip at any time—without worrying about lawn care. You can also sleep in, instead of getting up to water your grass in the early-morning hours before the sun hits.

Installing a top-quality irrigation system requires intimate knowledge of local weather, as well as familiarity with different plants’ moisture needs. Let the professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, do the job for you. They are known for their expertise and professionalism. Their comprehensive services include everything from core aeration to grub control. Call (513) 755-9434 to speak with a member of their friendly team about your lawn care needs today, or visit their website to learn about their satisfaction guarantee.

A Guide to Weeds In Your Garden's Mulch

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 18:10:18 GMT

Mulch is a multi-purpose lawn care tool. When it covers the soil, it suppresses weeds while also helping the earth to stay cool and retain moisture. Additionally, it creates a pleasing aesthetic by evening out the soil's surface. However, sometimes weeds manage to penetrate mulch and sprout up regardless of its protective properties. Find out why this happens and how to prevent it below.

Why Do Weeds Grow in Your Mulch?

Weeds are more likely to grow if sunlight is able to penetrate the mulch covering. To block the light, apply a layer that’s at least two to three inches thick. Replenish it regularly so rain and wind don’t displace it.

Weeds may also pop up if your general lawn care is lacking. Proper fertilization, aeration, and mowing make for a strong and dense root network, which makes grass and plants less susceptible to pests, disease, and weeds.

How Can You Prevent Weeds From Growing in Mulch?

If you haven't applied mulch yet, you can prevent weeds with a landscape fabric. This cloth allows water to pass through and deters weeds from sprouting up. Simply lay it down and then cover it with mulch.

If you notice weeds popping up, remove them manually as soon as possible. Use a trowel and make sure to dig them up at the roots. While you can also use weed killer, it may harm other plants as well—trust professionals to handle these chemicals.

From fertilization to aeration, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, provides all the lawn care services you need to keep weeds out of your garden. They’ve been in business for over 25 years and are known for friendly and reliable customer care. Their online testimonials attest to their diverse range of expertise, from installing irrigation systems to resolving nutritional soil deficiencies. Give them a call at (513) 755-9434 to book your lawn care service.

Why It's Important to Fertilize Your Lawn In Early Spring

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:31:11 GMT

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Snow Mold

Almost every species of grass is susceptible to snow mold, which will affect lawns in early spring. Once the snow melts away, the turf will have patches of brown, matted circles. As the disease spreads, the patches coalesce and expand until wind and sunlight eliminate the mold. However, the turf will remain infected, killing the grass time and again well into the next season.

Through aeration and strategic fertilization, snow mold can be treated and even prevented.

When Should You Fertilize Your Lawn?

Most Ohio lawns are comprised of cool-season or hybrid grasses. Their peak growing seasons are in the fall and spring. Fertilize so the grass can absorb the nitrate, phosphorous, and potassium it needs to grow in the spring. In early spring, the grass will need light fertilization to help awaken the lawn from dormancy and encourage healing from the long winter.

Maintaining the correct nutrient balance while accounting for grass type can be challenging. The professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation can simplify the lawn fertilization process to ensure your property is lush and green when the season begins to change. This lawn care company has serviced Cincinnati, OH, and its surrounding areas for nearly 30 years. From weed killing and grub control to core aeration and irrigation installations, they'll ensure your grass is the talk of the block. For more information on their services, visit their website . You can schedule an appointment with them at (513) 755-9434 .

A Guide to Crabgrass Prevention

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:25:29 GMT

Crabgrass steals nutrients from other seedlings, leaving your lawn and garden looking patchy and thinned out. Due to the fast-growing nature of this annual weed, it's best to take a preventive approach to stop it from taking root in your yard at all. The following lawn care tips can help.

Know When & Where to Take Action

Crabgrass generally emerges in early spring, germinating when soil temperatures reach about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It's best to take preventive action before this, paying particular attention to those areas that are more prone to crabgrass growth.

Crabgrass favors sunny locations with sandier soil, such as cracks along sidewalks and driveways. The weed also tends to sprout in areas that are already damaged, where there is little competition for growth. A healthy, well-fertilized lawn with strong grass growth is less susceptible to crabgrass.

Apply Preventive Products

Pre-emergent control is the best line of defense against crabgrass. This creates a barrier that prevents crabgrass seeds from germinating and taking root in the soil. It's best not to rake or dig in the soil after applying a pre-emergent, so take care of your basic springtime lawn care first.

Before applying a pre-emergent herbicide, aerate and fertilize your entire lawn. This will give your other grass the nutrients needed to grow strong and ward off crabgrass. Then, apply your chosen pre-emergent herbicide—make sure the product is labeled specifically for crabgrass control—according to the instructions on the bottle.

Keep an eye out for crabgrass and spot-treat emerging weeds as needed. Crabgrass is recognizable for its pointed, wide leaves that all grow from a shared stem. Finally, going forward, take care not to mow your lawn too short. A grass height of two to two-and-a-half inches is ideal. Cutting the grass too short allows for more sun to come through, which can foster crabgrass growth.

Keep your lawn healthy, beautiful, and free of crabgrass with services from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH. These lawn care professionals have over 25 years of experience and are known for creating lush, green lawns. They run a soil test on every new lawn they treat to create a customized care plan. Visit their website for a complete list of services, including grub control, aeration, irrigation, and fertilization. For an estimate, call (513) 755-9434 .

What Are the Most Damaging Winter Lawn Care Mistakes?

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:40:20 GMT

People who desire a thriving green lawn often put the most effort into springtime lawn care . However, your grass will also need attention in the winter, but at a different level. Before winter temperatures drop, take note of the most common winter lawn care mistakes below.

4 Winter Lawn Care Mistakes to Avoid

1. Cutting Grass Too Short

Cutting grass blades too short can be problematic. Different grass species have different length requirements to ensure healthy growth. If you're uncertain which grass type you have or its ideal length, it's best to follow the lawn care best practices and keep the blades between two and three inches long. Cutting the lawn lower than that leaves the yard vulnerable to snow mold.

2. Leaving Dead Leaves on the Lawn

With so many trees shedding their leaves in the fall, raking the fallen leaves might seem like an unnecessary task. However, it would be best if you didn't leave the leaves on your grass all winter. Sunlight is limited during the winter, but your lawn continues craving warmth and sunlight in colder weather. The plants won't receive enough sunlight if you don't rake the leaves off your grass. In the spring, the lawn will likely develop patchy areas.

3. Ignoring Pest Problems

Though some insects seek shelter in the winter, it's not best not to ignore a critter issue just because colder temperatures are approaching. Common lawn pests in Ohio include grubs, chinch bugs, and armyworms. Take action immediately if you notice a pest issue on your property's grass, plants, or trees before winter. Otherwise, the critters can wreak havoc on your plants and possibly spread into your home. Contact a pest control company for a viable solution at the first sign of a lawn pest problem.

4. Making Snow Paths

After a snowfall, you might consider making a path in the snow for your children or pets to walk and play. However, letting them run all over the lawn is better than making a discernable path because the yard's soil will compact if it gets too much foot traffic. Oxygen has difficulty infiltrating compacted soil, which can lead to oxygen deprivation in plant roots.

For quality lawn care and irrigation services, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Proudly serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, this company tailors its irrigation and lawn services to the needs of its customers. Their experienced technicians offer guaranteed satisfaction in lawn services, including grub control, fertilization, and herbicide application. They also install and service sprinkler systems. Contact them today at (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their lawn care services online .

Common Winter Lawn Care Mistakes to Avoid

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:31:20 GMT

Your lawn may not need as much care and attention in the winter. However, the steps you take in colder weather will determine how well your lawn grows in the spring. Below are a few common lawn care mistakes to avoid in the winter.

What Not to Do With Your Lawn in the Winter

1. Walk on the Grass

During the winter, ice crystals actually form between the cells inside each blade of grass. This provides a layer of insulation and some reinforcement that protects the grass from snow.

When frozen grass crunches under your feet, the ice crystals break through and destroy the cell walls. To prevent brown patches in the spring, avoid walking or driving on the grass.

2. Forget to Fertilize

Your grass may not be visibly growing in the winter, but root systems keep developing under the soil. Fertilizer provides your lawn with the nutrients to promote healthy development.

In the spring, your grass will also need these nutrients to fuel their growth cycle. Aerating and fertilizing at the beginning of winter ensures your lawn has the nutrients to look its best when spring arrives.

3. Leave Objects on the Lawn

Lawn furniture, fallen sticks, and any other objects on the lawn keep grass from receiving sunlight and moisture when they need it the most. Leaving obstructions on the lawn through the winter can cause dead spots in the spring.

At the beginning of winter, take any ornaments, furniture, or large toys inside. Lawn care experts also recommend periodically sweeping the yard to remove deposits of leaves or fallen branches that can harm the grass.

With years of experience serving homes and businesses across Cincinnati and the surrounding areas, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation has the expertise to keep your grass green year after year. They offer a comprehensive range of lawn care services designed to help your grass thrive during the cold Ohio winter. Visit their website for more on their lawn care services, or call (513) 755-9434 to request an estimate today.

FAQ About Core Aeration

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:21:31 GMT

A great lawn increases your home's property value, reduces noise, and adds visual appeal. To achieve lush grass, a homeowner has to be proactive with their lawn care . This typically involves hiring a lawn service to perform aeration. Core aeration is a method that creates holes in the soil to support grass production by improving soil drainage, while making a hospitable environment for worms, microfauna and microflora, which can only live with oxygen. Here is a guide to commonly asked questions about this topic.

What to Know About Core Aeration

What is the benefit of aerating your lawn?

To grow a thick, lush, green lawn, you need a healthy root system and plenty of new growth. Aeration creates small spaces that loosen compact soil, allowing space for roots to grow as well as increase exposure to air, water and fertilizer. With this lawn service, you protect the health of your existing root system and any early roots that are easily damaged by heavy foot traffic and drought.

How often should I aerate?

The frequency with which you aerate depends on the type of soil you have. While most lawns benefit from annual aeration, lawns in heavy clay soil need this form of lawn care biannually. Lawns with loose, sandy soil can be managed with aeration every two years. Additionally, lawns that get excessive foot traffic should use this method twice a year.

When should I aerate?

The timing for aeration depends on where you live. In the northeast, the best time is fall. Aeration in autumn pulls cores better without disturbing the control layer. The soil is soft but not muddy.

How long does it take the cores to disappear from the lawn?

The cores break down naturally over time. While it typically takes a couple of weeks, weather conditions, watering and mowing will accelerate this process. As the cores disintegrate, their soil microbes will break down thatch, so it's important not to intervene in this process.

With Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation the grass is always greener. This locally owned and operated company in Cincinnati, OH, provides custom lawn care services including weed, insect, and grub control, irrigation installation, mosquito control, aeration and fertilization. For over 25 years, they have become one of the most trusted names in lawn care in the Cincinnati area. Their skilled technicians ensure a lush green lawn year after year, satisfaction guaranteed. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 755-9434 or visit their website .

A Guide to Watering the Lawn During Spring and Summer

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:09:57 GMT

As temperatures rise, your lawn naturally requires more water. Grass begins to grow in abundance, flowers start to bloom, and you’ll need to spend some extra time quenching your landscape’s thirst to ensure it looks its best. Adopting these watering habits as part of your spring and summer lawn care routine is a great starting point.

When Should You Water the Lawn?

Ideally, you should aim to feed your lawn at least an inch to about an inch-and-a-half of water each week. Because rainfall also counts, it’s smart to check the forecast before you water. If it’s supposed to rain, you may not need to water as much or at all that week. Keep in mind that the frequency depends on the type of soil you have and how much it’s retaining water.

Generally, since the heat will dry out the soil relatively quickly, you should plan to water at least every other day. Since deep watering is best to support root growth and protect your lawn from drought , you may want to set up a sprinkler system to minimize your workload and to ensure that the water penetrates the soil as deeply and efficiently as possible.

What Time of Day Is Best for Watering?

It’s important to choose the right time of day when you’re watering during spring and summer. If you do so in the middle of the day, your lawn care session will coincide with peak sun hours. It’s very hot at this time, so that will cause the water to evaporate much faster than it can travel to the roots.

Ideally, you should set your irrigation system to run before nine in the morning. At this time, it’s still cool enough for the water to penetrate the soil more deeply. Plus, because there’s minimal wind at this hour, there’s less opportunity for water to move away from where it needs to travel. Don’t water at night, as there’s greater chance that the moisture could attract unwelcome pests to your lawn.

If you’re ready to give your landscape the VIP treatment it deserves, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. These professionals offer top-quality irrigation systems that will take your lawn care routine to the next level during spring and summer. Visit the website to find out more about their products and solutions, or call (513) 755-9434 to speak with a representative.

3 Tips for a Low-Maintenance Yard

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:58:00 GMT

Having an outdoor space that’s beautiful to look at and enjoyable to relax in is one of the most desirable aspects of homeownership. However, keeping up with yard maintenance can be challenging and time-consuming work. Fortunately, utilizing the right irrigation system and lawn care methods can help reduce the energy and effort you’re required to put in. Here are some effective tips that will make your yard easier to care for.

How to Create a Low-Maintenance Yard

1. Choose Your Grass Carefully

Growing and maintaining a lush, green lawn requires much more than simply running a mower over it every now and then. The good news is that there are several types of grass available that will add to your curb appeal but only need minimal care. For example, zoysiagrass has a deep root system that stands up well against drought and heavy foot traffic, while bahiagrass is able to thrive even in environments where other lawns struggle. Choosing a low-maintenance grass can significantly cut down on your yard responsibilities.

2. Install an Automatic Irrigation System

When you want your lawn and plants to flourish but can’t keep up with all the watering this entails, an automatic irrigation system can provide the perfect solution. Once installed, this will manage your daily or weekly watering duties without you ever having to be present. The system can be programmed to turn on and shut off at certain times and will ensure water is directed exactly where it’s needed.

3. Use Mulch

Applying mulch to your landscape is one of the best ways to save time on yard upkeep. A thick layer of mulch helps conserve moisture in the soil, regulate soil temperature, and control weed growth. Mulching your leaves and clippings will also release beneficial nutrients into your lawn, as well as protect trees, shrubs, and flowers during winter. Generally, you’ll just need to change out your mulch a couple times a year.

For help keeping your home’s exterior in tip-top shape, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Serving residents throughout Cincinnati, OH and the surrounding areas, this skilled team of professionals is dedicated to providing high-quality yard maintenance solutions that promote a healthy and attractive landscape. They offer customized lawn care programs and irrigation systems to meet the needs of each individual client. Call (513) 755-9434 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online to learn more about their services.

3 Types of Sprinkler Systems for Lawns & Gardens

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:51:41 GMT

A sprinkler system can help you keep your lawn and garden lush and healthy while saving you time and energy. There are various systems available for different types of plants and garden areas. If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your outdoor space this summer, here are some irrigation options to consider.

What Type of Sprinkler System Should I Consider?

1. Inground Spray Systems

This type of system consists of pipes that run underground to small sprinkler heads that pop up when activated. The sprinkler heads can rotate to cover a large area or stay mostly stationary to provide more concentrated watering. Inground systems are most popular with lawns, since they can easily provide consistent water; many systems can even be programmed to go off at specific times throughout the week.

2. Mist Systems

Mist systems provide smaller water droplets over a specific area. These sprinklers are meant to mimic rainfall, quickly saturating entire plants and allowing water to seep down to the roots gradually, while droplets also cover the leaves and flowers to provide a cooling, moisturizing effect. These systems are often used in gardens and agricultural settings for plants that thrive in rainy conditions.

3. Drip Systems

Drip irrigation provides direct access to water over a long period of time. These systems consist of hoses that have holes spread out to allow water to seep directly into the soil. One of the main benefits is its water saving features; since water goes directly to the soil, less is lost through evaporation. This system can be used to water various plants, especially those that need lots of water access.

If you need a new sprinkler system or any irrigation options, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati. The lawn care and irrigation system company serves customers throughout Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties. The team can install a new sprinkler system, expand existing systems, and service all types of irrigation systems. Visit the website for a full list of services, or call (513) 755-9434 to request an estimate.

How to Combat Weeds in the Fall

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:42:22 GMT

As a homeowner, you want to keep your yard looking its best. After all, it's one of the first aspects of your property people see when they approach your house. However, weeds can quickly sprout up, stealing nutrients from plants and trees and detracting from the appearance of your lawn. Here are a few lawn treatment tips to combat weeds in the fall.

4 Ways to Combat Weeds in the Fall

1. Use Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides are chemicals that prevent weed seeds from germinating and growing. This type of weed control is best used in the fall, before the first frost. Applying pre-emergent herbicides will create a barrier that will prevent weed seeds from growing. This will make it easier to control weeds in the future.

2. Mow Your Lawn Regularly

Mowing your lawn regularly can also help control weeds. This is because weeds thrive in tall grass. By keeping your lawn short, you make it more difficult for weeds to grow. Make sure to use a sharp mower blade, as a dull blade can damage your lawn and make it more susceptible to weeds.

3. Remove Weeds Manually

Removing weeds manually is a good way to control them. This method is best used for small areas or individual weeds. It's important to remove the entire weed, including the roots, to prevent regrowth. This method is time-consuming, but it's effective and environmentally friendly.

4. Fertilize Your Lawn

Fertilizing your lawn in the fall is a good way to promote healthy growth and prevent weeds. A healthy lawn is less susceptible to weed growth. Make sure to choose a fertilizer that's appropriate for your lawn type and follow the instructions carefully.

If you're having trouble controlling weeds in your lawn, it's time to consider professional lawn treatment. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation is a trusted lawn care service provider in Cincinnati, OH. They offer a range of services, including weed control, fertilization, and aeration. Contact them today at (513) 755-9434 or visit their website to learn more about their services. Don't let weeds ruin the beauty of your lawn.

What to Know About Fall Fertilization

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:35:39 GMT

Most homeowners strive to maintain healthy, beautiful lawns, and many assume that spring, the active growing season, is the most crucial time to feed a lawn. However, fall fertilization is an essential component of a comprehensive lawn care routine. Fertilizer provides your grass with nutrients it needs to grow lush and dense, fueling strong growth and an attractive appearance. Here's why you shouldn't forego a fall feeding.

Why Should You Fertilize the Yard in the Fall?

Fall fertilization is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps to strengthen the roots of your grass. When you apply fertilizer in the fall, the grass can absorb the nutrients and store them in the root system. This helps the grass to remain healthy and strong throughout the winter months, which is particularly important in areas with cold and harsh winters.

In addition, fall fertilization helps to promote new growth in the spring. When the grass has a strong root system, it is better equipped to grow quickly and healthily when the weather starts to warm up. This means that your lawn will look lush and green earlier in the year, giving you a head start on your lawn care routine.

What Type of Fertilizer Should I Use?

Look for a fertilizer that is specifically designed for fall use, as these products typically have a higher concentration of potassium and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for root development and will help to promote healthy growth throughout the winter months.

In addition, look for a slow-release fertilizer. These products release nutrients gradually over time, which means that your grass will be able to absorb them more efficiently.

What Are Some Best Practices for Fall Fertilization?

When it comes to fall fertilization, make sure to apply the fertilizer when the grass is still actively growing. This typically occurs in late summer or early fall, depending on your location. Applying fertilizer too early or too late can be ineffective, as the grass may not be able to absorb the nutrients properly.

Be sure to water your lawn after applying the fertilizer. This will help to activate the nutrients and ensure that they are absorbed by the grass. Watering your lawn regularly throughout the fall will also help to promote healthy growth and prepare your lawn for the winter months.

For assistance with your fall fertilization in the Cincinnati, OH, area, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . These experts have over 25 years of experience in the region and know what it takes to create a lush lawn that can survive Ohio winters. They provide each new client with a soil test, ensuring they can give your lawn exactly the nutrients it needs. Find out how it works online and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule yours.

Lawn Care Tips for Late Fall

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:28:44 GMT

As the weather starts to cool down and the leaves start to fall, it’s important to perform seasonal lawn care to ensure its health until the spring. Late fall is the perfect time to give your lawn some extra attention before the winter frost sets in.

Lawn Care Tips for Late Fall

1. Fertilize

Fertilizing your lawn near the end of autumn will help to promote root growth and give your lawn the nutrients it needs to survive the winter. Make sure to use a fertilizer that is high in potassium.

2. Aerate

This will help to loosen compacted soil and allow water and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the roots, strengthening them.

3. Keep Mowing

Keep your lawn mowed to a height of 2-3 inches throughout the fall season to help prevent disease and promote healthy growth. Maintain basic lawn care throughout the season.

4. Rake up leaves

Fallen leaves can smother your lawn and lead to disease and insect problems. If you allow them to accumulate through the winter, frost and ice will only exacerbate the problem. Make sure to rake up your leaves regularly, and either compost them or dispose of them properly.

5. Keep Watering

Even though the weather may be cooler, your lawn still needs water to stay healthy. Make sure to water your lawn regularly, especially during especially dry spells.

6. Fix bare spots

Rake up the area, add some topsoil and seed, and water regularly to help the new grass grow. A fuller, healthier lawn will be the reward come spring time!

If you’re looking for professional lawn care services in the Cincinnati area, look no further than Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . With over 20 years of experience, they offer a variety of lawn care services to keep your lawn looking its best year-round, including treatment, irrigation, and aeration. Contact them today at (513) 755-9434 or visit their website to learn more about their offerings.

What to Know About Deep Root Feeding

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:21:23 GMT

Most homeowners want beautiful, healthy lawns and landscape. But, lawns with curb appeal don't just happen—they require effort to achieve and maintain. Fertilization is one component of a comprehensive plan that helps produce this result. It provides plants and trees with the nutrients they need to grow dense root networks, making them more resistant to pests and disease. One fertilization method to consider is deep root feeding. The following guide explores this process and its benefits.

What Are the Benefits of Deep Root Feeding?

Deep root feeding is an effective way to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive. By injecting fertilizer directly into the soil around the roots, your plants can absorb the nutrients more efficiently. This method allows the roots to grow deeper and stronger, making them more resistant to drought, disease, and pests.

Another benefit of deep root feeding is that it can improve the overall health of your lawn. When your plants are healthy, they can better resist weeds and other invasive species. Additionally, deep root feeding can promote stronger and thicker grass, which can help prevent soil erosion and runoff.

Deep root feeding can also help save water. When your plants have healthy and deep roots, they can absorb water more efficiently. This means you won’t have to water your lawn as frequently, saving you time and money on your water bill.

What Are the Benefits of Deep Root Feeding?

Deep root feeding is typically needed when your plants are not receiving the nutrients they need from regular fertilization. Signs that your lawn may benefit from deep root feeding include yellowing leaves, slow growth, and thinning grass. You may also notice that your lawn is more susceptible to weeds, pests, and disease.

Deep root feeding can also be beneficial if you have recently planted new trees or shrubs. These plants require a lot of nutrients to establish strong roots and grow healthy. By providing deep root fertilization, you can give them the best chance for success.

It’s important to note that deep root feeding should not be done too frequently. Over-fertilization can lead to an imbalance of nutrients, which can harm your plants. A professional lawn care company can help determine the best schedule for your lawn’s specific needs.

For help with your garden's fertilization, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH. They start every new client off with a soil analysis, allowing them to determine exactly what nutrients their lawn needs. With over 25 years in the business, they know how to make your garden thrive. Learn more about their services online or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

Maintaining Your Irrigation System to Prevent Leaks and Wastage

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:07:34 GMT

Maintaining an irrigation system is crucial to ensure that your lawn remains healthy and lush. An irrigation system can be a significant investment in your lawn, and it is essential to keep it in good working order. Not only will this prevent any potential leaks, but it will also prevent wastage of water and ultimately save you money on your water bill. Additionally, a well-maintained irrigation system will ensure that your lawn receives the proper amount of water it needs to thrive. With that said, here are some tips for keeping your irrigation system in tip-top shape.

1. Check for Leaks Regularly

Checking your irrigation system for leaks is crucial in preventing water wastage, which can lead to exorbitant water bills. It's recommended to inspect your system for leaks at least once a month. This not only helps you conserve water but also ensures your system is functioning properly.

2. Clean the Filters

Filters can become clogged with debris and reduce water pressure. To maintain proper water pressure, it is essential to keep your filters clean.

3. Replace Broken Parts

In case you observe any broken or damaged parts in your irrigation system, it's essential to replace them immediately to avoid worsening the situation. By doing so, you can prevent further damage that may require costly repairs or even replacement of the entire system.

4. Schedule Regular Maintenance

A professional lawn care company can perform regular maintenance on your system to ensure it remains in top condition. With their expertise and knowledge, they can identify any potential issues and address them promptly, saving you time and money in the long run.

5. Upgrade to a Smart Controller

A smart controller is an ideal solution for managing your irrigation system by adjusting watering times based on the weather conditions. This highly advanced technology not only helps in saving water but also cuts down on your monthly water bills. It's a smart investment that ensures that your irrigation system is operating efficiently and effectively.

6. Consider a Rain Sensor

Rain sensors are a valuable addition to any irrigation system. These devices can detect when it's raining and shut off your irrigation system, preventing unnecessary watering. By preventing overwatering, rain sensors can help conserve water and save you money on your water bill.

7. Don't Overwater

Overwatering can lead to water waste and promote weed growth. Follow recommended watering guidelines for your lawn and soil type.

8. Get a Soil Test

Knowing your soil type and nutrient levels can help you adjust your irrigation system to provide the optimal amount of water and nutrients for your lawn.

By following these tips, you can maintain your irrigation system and prevent leaks and wastage. If you need help with your irrigation and lawn care needs, call Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation at (513) 755-9434 . Located in Cincinnati, OH, they offer a range of lawn services, including irrigation system installation and maintenance. Visit their website to learn more.

FAQs About Core Aeration

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:07:32 GMT

Core aeration is a process that can benefit your lawn in many ways. If you're unfamiliar with the process, you may have some questions about it. Here are four frequently asked questions about core aeration:

FAQs About Core Aeration

1. What is Core Aeration?

Core aeration is the process of removing small plugs of soil from your lawn to allow water, air, and nutrients to penetrate deeply into the soil. This process helps to break up compacted soil and allows roots to grow more deeply, resulting in a healthier, greener lawn.

2. When Should I Aerate My Lawn?

The best time to aerate your lawn is in the spring or fall, when the grass is actively growing. Aeration is not recommended during periods of drought or extreme heat, as this can stress the grass even more. If your lawn is heavily compacted or has a lot of thatch buildup, you may need to aerate more frequently.

3. How Can I Tell If My Lawn Needs to Be Aerated?

There are a few signs that your lawn may need to be aerated. If the soil feels hard and compacted, or if water pools on the surface instead of soaking in, it may be time to aerate. Another sign is if your grass is not as green as it should be, even with adequate water and fertilizer.

4. Can I Aerate My Lawn Myself?

While it is possible to rent a core aerator and do the job yourself, it can be a difficult and time-consuming process. It's also important to make sure you're using the right equipment and techniques to avoid damaging your lawn. Hiring a professional lawn care company can save you time and effort while ensuring that your lawn is aerated properly.

For professional core aeration services, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. Their team helps clients across Butler County keep their lawns looking their best. You can count on them for quality lawn care services, including irrigation, fertilization, and so much more. Call them at (513) 755-9434 or visit their website to learn more about their services.

What Are the Benefits of Late Fall Fertilization?

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 12:54:00 GMT

Fertilizing your lawn in the spring helps ensure lush, beautiful results. While fertilization is not counted among the most common late-fall lawn care activities, it is equally important . There are many advantages to late-fall fertilizing, all of which contribute to your lawn’s health during winter dormancy and beyond. Learn about the benefits of adding nutrients to your lawn in late fall below.

Why Should You Fertilize in the Late Fall?

1. Fortifies the Root Systems Against Winter Weather

As grass prepares for dormancy, its root systems conserve energy via carbohydrate stores in rhizomes, stems, and stolons. By providing the roots with extra nutrients, you are helping fortify your grass against winter-related stress, such as harsh temperatures, foot traffic-related damage, and winter diseases like snow mold. Gray and pink snow mold are fungal diseases that occur under snow and kill patches of grass. Clearing lawn debris before winter also helps keep your grass fungus-free, so it can focus on energy conservation, not fighting various diseases.

2. Keeps Cool-Season Grasses Green

Cool-season grasses flourish in the fall, unlike warm-season grasses that start browning when summer ends. Scheduling fertilization services in late fall keeps your cool-season grass green longer, allowing you to enjoy a green lawn into winter. If your lawn features cool-season grass and you love the appearance of green grass amidst changing fall colors and bare trees in winter, add fertilizer before the ground freezes.

3. Helps Prevent Springtime Weeds

A robust, healthy lawn emerging from its winter dormancy can easily compete with weed seeds and crowd them out. Weed plants and grasses are often aggressive, taking soil nutrients and water from wanted greenery and creating curb appeal issues. Rather than dealing with weed challenges in the spring again, schedule late fall fertilization to enjoy a beautiful, uniform lawn next spring. Extra energy reserves in root systems help the lawn grow quickly and early in the spring, which also helps prevent weed issues.

For detail-driven fertilization services this fall, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . This lawn care and irrigation company in Cincinnati, OH, provides Butler, Hamilton, Clermont, and Warren counties with services that always guarantee satisfaction. Call (513) 755-9434 today to schedule an appointment, or visit the company online for more information.

Common Lawn Fungi and How to Identify Them

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:30:37 GMT

Maintaining a luscious green lawn is no easy feat. Even if you meticulously mow, water, and fertilize your grass, it can still be infiltrated by fungi that cause frustrating discoloration or mold and wreak havoc on your hard work. Early lawn treatment is the best way to fight off a fungus before it spreads. Here's how to identify the most common fungi.

4 Common Lawn Fungi

1. Brown Patch

Brown patch fungus is named after its most identifiable feature—the brown patches it leaves on your lawn. They frequently appear in circular shapes and quickly spread across the grass. Along with fungicidal treatment, keep your lawn mowed and aerated, avoid overwatering, and remove thatch to help dry out the lawn and discourage fungal growth.

2. Summer Patch

Summer patches look very similar to brown patch fungus. The round patches appear in late summer and feature a brown center inside a yellow ring. Unfortunately, this fungus is resistant to treatment. The best way to avoid its wrath is to prevent an infestation by keeping your grass short and reasonably dry as consistently as possible.

3. Slime Mold

Slime mold coats individual blades of grass in a yellow or gray mold that looks and feels slimy when wet. When dry, slime mold appears ashy or powdery. This type of fungus doesn't actually kill or damage the grass. You can safely let it run its course or, if you're bothered by its appearance, simply spray it off with a garden hose.

4. Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is another fungus that doesn't harm grass but looks very unattractive on your lawn. It causes white or gray powdery patches that can't be removed as easily as slime mold. Removal will require lawn treatment with a fungicide such as metconazole or tebuconazole.

If you're struggling with lawn disease, you can count on Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. This custom lawn care company offers lawn treatment, weeding, aeration, and pest control services to keep your lawn green. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Benefits of Fertilizing Your Lawn in the Fall

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 13:33:14 GMT

Most homeowners know to fertilize their lawn during the growing season. However, many don't realize that you should also be fertilizing at the end of the growing season when autumn arrives. Learn more below about the benefits of lawn fertilization in the fall in the list below.

3 Ways Your Lawn Benefits From Fall Fertilization

1. Boosted Energy

The winter isn't always easy for your lawn to endure. When heavy snow coats your grass, it makes it difficult for sunlight to reach your lawn and provide it with the necessary nutrients. By fertilizing your lawn in the fall before snowfall begins, you give your grass that energy boost it won't be able to get later on throughout the winter.

2. Minimized Disease Risk

Lawn fertilization also reduces the risk of a disease killing off your grass throughout the winter. The layers of snow and ice that often form leave grass vulnerable to disease that can quickly spread and destroy your entire lawn. Fertilizing makes your grass stronger, making it more resilient against dangerous conditions of this nature.

3. Greener Lawn in the Spring

The biggest benefit for you personally is that your lawn will appear more green and lush when winter is over. With the added boost that fertilizer provides, your lawn will start off the spring already in healthy condition. This makes it easier to care for your grass once the warmer months arrive because there are no diseased or dead patches of grass to worry about.

Get assistance with your lawn fertilization by employing the assistance and utilizing the supplies provided by Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . This lawn supply store and care service operates throughout Cincinnati, OH, offering their lawn care services throughout spring, summer, and fall. They guarantee your satisfaction, and you can check out their calendar guide to caring for your lawn on their website . Call (513) 755-9434 to inquire about their products or schedule service today.

How to Revitalize a Dying Lawn

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 15:13:17 GMT

As a homeowner, you likely want to do everything possible to maintain your curb appeal and enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn. However, this can be a challenge when certain areas of your grass are dead or dormant. A little know-how and effort can go a long way toward bringing it back to life, though. The following lawn care methods can quickly revitalize your property and help ensure beautiful results.

4 Lawn Care Methods That Will Bring Dead Grass Back to Life

1. Figure Out the Root Cause

The first step is to figure out what's killing your grass, as your lawn care efforts may be in vain if the root problem isn't fixed. Inadequate care, planting the wrong type of grass for your region, fungal infections, parasite infestations, and root damage are just some of the most common reasons for brown or dead grass.

If you want to find out what's going on with your lawn, you can have the soil tested for imperfections. A lawn and irrigation expert will be able to tell you if any property-specific challenges are present and how you can make the soil more nutrient-rich.

2. Water Often

Watering your grass on a regular basis will promote strong root growth. A lot of people who own their own homes believe that rain is all that's needed to keep their grass alive, but in reality, the elements alone are often not enough.

Instead, you should make a watering schedule that accounts for rain, sunlight, and shade. Care for your lawn involves watering it about an inch to an inch and a half per week if there are dry patches. For most homeowners, this factors out to about twice a week, though it's often necessary to bump this up to three times weekly in periods of intense heat and no rain.

3. Get Rid of Weeds

It's possible that using a strong weed killer could harm the grass around it, especially if the application leaves brown or dead patches. New weeds should be pulled out by hand or with a gardening tool instead. To ensure your grass gets the nutrients it needs without suffering any negative effects, select a noninvasive herbicide formula for application.

4. Fertilize Regularly

New sod or grass seed requires fertilizer and other nutrients to ensure a successful plant and subsequent growth. To keep your grass healthy and looking great all year, fertilizer should be applied on a regular basis—usually about four times a year. For the best results, use an organic slow-release product.

If you need help bringing your lawn back from the dead, turn to the professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. These reputable professionals offer residents throughout Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties a broad range of lawn care and irrigation services that meet each property's unique needs. Give them a call today at (513) 755-9434 or visit their website to learn more.

How Does Core Aeration Benefit a Lawn?

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 16:13:58 GMT

Aerating is a lawn care practice that removes the buildup of thatch and dirt to improve airflow between the soil and the surrounding environment. Also called core aeration , this process offers a number of benefits for your grass. Here's a closer look at why you should consult a lawn care professional to boost your lawn health.

3 Reasons to Schedule Aeration for Your Lawn

1. Better Access to Air and Other Essentials

Your property's grass needs exposure to air, sun, water, and nutrients in order to grow and maintain its lush health. Too much thatch and tightly compacted soil can prevent access to these essential elements.

By removing plugs of thatch and dirt through core aeration, your lawn will be able to obtain the building blocks required for optimal growth and better absorb fertilizers and other enhancement products. Your lawn will be fuller, healthier, and more vibrant.

2. Minimize Thatch

Thatch is a layer of dead grass, leaves, and twigs that naturally builds up between the grass and soil. If it isn't controlled adequately, thatch won't just cut off the grass's access to air and other nutrients but also continue to grow until your lawn needs to be professionally dethatched.

Dethatching is a much more involved and labor-intensive process than aeration. Having core aeration performed now will help you avoid dethatching—and the time and cost that go with it—further down the road.

3. Reduce Water Accumulation and Runoff

Core aeration also loosens compacted soil. This helps the earth better absorb water so that it can get to the roots of the grass.

Greater absorption means less risk of water accumulation and inundation of the lawn, which keeps it healthier. It also results in less water runoff, which is crucial if you don't have a lot of opportunities for drainage on your property.

Enjoy these benefits with core aeration from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . For over 25 years, this skilled and friendly team has been providing the Cincinnati, OH, area with professional lawn care and irrigation services, including aeration, weed and insect control, fertilizers, and soil testing. They'll help make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood. Call (513) 755-9434 to request a quote or visit their website to explore their services in more detail.

How to Identify Lawn Fungus

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 16:23:43 GMT

A lush lawn is a great asset to your home, boosting curb appeal and creating an attractive exterior. Unfortunately, there are many lawn care issues that can negatively impact your grass' health, inhibiting growth. Lawn fungus is one issue to beware of. Learn the signs of this problem and how to fix the various forms of fungi below.

3 Key Signs of Lawn Fungus

1. Brown Patches

Brown spots on your lawn can be a sign of rhizoctonia fungi. It's most common in cool-season grasses and appears most prolifically in the summer, when temperatures reach 65 degrees Fahrenheit or more. Fungal-related brown patch generally results in irregular circles that can be as big as three feet in diameter. To avoid this issue, don't over water your lawn. A fungicide can fix the issue if it's already prevalent.

2. Pink Web-Like Patches

Pink snow mold gets its name from the circular white-or pink-colored patches it forms on your lawn. The patches may resemble a spider's web, creating a coating similar to a cobweb over the grass. It's more apparent in early spring and usually occurs because of snow-melt adding moisture to the earth.

It thrives in warm, humid environments. Usually, pink snow mold fades away with warmer temperatures. You can help fix it by raking it off the surface of the grass and mowing it to a slightly shorter length.

3. Yellow-Brown Patches Surrounded by Dark Green

So-called summer patch is caused by magnaporthe poae fungi. It results in wilted dark green circles of grass, which encircle smaller patches of yellowish-brown grass. The patches are generally about two inches in diameter, with the grass dying from the top down.

Summer patch can be corrected as soon as you see the dark-green wilted patches of grass forming. Increasing irrigation can help prevent the fungus from spreading. In the future, summer patch can be prevented with a propiconazole fungicide lawn care treatment.

If you suspect you have a lawn fungus, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH. These professionals provide personalized pest control and lawn care treatments, including a soil test for all new customers. They serve Hamilton, Warren, Clermont, and Butler counties. Visit their website to learn about their lawn care services and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

4 of Ohio's Toughest Weeds

Tue, 24 May 2022 16:28:16 GMT

Weed control is a critical part of a comprehensive lawn care regimen. Weeds compete with other plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients in the soil. They're often unsightly, ruining the aesthetically pleasing lawn you've worked so hard for. Identifying aggressive weeds is the first step in taking action against them. Here's a roundup of Ohio's common weeds.

What Aggressive Weeds Must Ohioans Tend With?

1. Crabgrass

The name may be confusing, but crabgrass is considered a weed and should be carefully differentiated from the other grass in your lawn. Crabgrass stands out for its thick, broad blades and tough stalks. It tends to grow in clumps, with blades shooting out from a single knot of roots. This fast-spreading weed can produce up to 75,000 weeds per season from a single crabgrass plant.

2. Chickweed

This invasive weed is one of the most common types of weed in grass. It is an annual weed that forms small mounds about 3 to 8 inches in diameter and produces small, delicate, daisy-like white to pink flowers in the spring. It is an annual weed that emerges in mid-to-late summer and completes its life cycle the following spring. Before it dies it produces thousands of seeds that germinate later in the summer.

3. Wild Violets

These flowering weeds are notable for the extensive root system that lets them spread quickly. You can recognize them by their waxy leaves and small purple flowers. They often grow in thick mats, covering entire lawns and depriving the grass beneath of vital sun and air.

4. Henbit

Unfortunately, weeds aren't just a warm-weather issue. You can recognize it by its square-shaped stems and slender pink flowers. A single plant can grow from 12 to 16 inches in height. Henbit invades lawns quickly thanks to its fast-growing roots.

Keep the upper hand on weeds this season with services from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in the greater Cincinnati, OH, area. These lawn care professionals have over 30 years of experience tackling even the toughest weeds. They will provide a personalized weed control solution based on your lawns' unique needs. Visit the website to learn more about their lawn care treatments, or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule service or request a quote.

How to Make the Most of Spring Lawn Care

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 16:30:46 GMT

With spring on the horizon, many people are beginning to plan outings, vacations, and landscaping projects. Many are also preparing for their lawn care routine to help revive their dead and dormant grass. Spring care sets your lawn up for success throughout the rest of the year, so use this brief guide to make sure you're doing it right.

How Spring Lawn Care Helps New Growth

After many months of dormancy during winter, your lawn may be slow to grow back and return to its beautiful, lush summer state. While it's languishing, weeds may fair better and begin outgrowing grass, so it's helpful to give your grass a little support and help it on its way.

With the right actions taken at the right time, you can discourage weed growth, encourage healthy grass, and prepare your lawn to be thick and green all summer. The main things your lawn will need for this are room to grow a little bit of fertilizer.

What to Do at Different Stages

Early Spring

Once the weather starts warming up, the snow recedes, and spring storms roll through, you know it's time to start your lawn care routine. Kick off the season right by cleaning up the debris and litter that have accumulated throughout the winter. Sticks, twigs, bark, leaves, and trash all inhibit the growth of new grasses and can leave bare spots on the lawn.

After you've cleared all that out, it's time to break out the rake. Rake through your grass to extract the underlayer of dead grasses. This is called dethatching, and it frees up space for newer, healthier grass to grow.

Late Spring

After your cool-season grasses have become well-established, you can focus on thickening your grass with warm-season seed and aerating the soil. Apply your seed to any thin, patchy, or bare areas of your lawn, add in a slow-release fertilizer, and water plentifully. If you have compacted soil, the grass may have a difficult time penetrating and spreading its roots. You can fix this problem with aeration.

If you're looking for lawn care help this season, reach out to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. These lawn care professionals have over 30 years of experience with irrigation, aeration, and fertilizer application to help your grass reach its full potential. Learn more about their aeration services online , and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule a consultation.

Why Families Should Hire a Lawn Care Service

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 16:34:01 GMT

Between work, school, and other responsibilities, there’s limited time to spend with your family. While time can’t be slowed, it can be better spent by delegating tasks to professionals. Lawn services can handle and improve the lawn while you gain time to focus on your loved ones.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Lawn Care Service?

1. Saves Time

All lawns are different and demand unique strategies and materials to keep it healthy. It requires researching the soil’s Ph to ensure the iron and alkalinity levels are balanced.

There are several hundred varieties of grass, as well, with different needs to remain lush and green. Tracking down the specific blends in your yard takes time.

There’s also the necessity of protecting the lawn from weeds, pests, and potential weather damage. Searching for the right chemicals and treatments is time-consuming and costly.

Once the research is complete, you need to drive to several stores to find and buy soil testing kits, spreader, sprayer, the appropriate fertilizers, herbicides, and grass seed.

All these tasks take up time that could be better spent enjoying your kids or sharing time with your spouse.

2. Improves Results

Even long-time homeowners don’t have the experience that lawn service professionals do. Experienced professionals identify and solve issues before they become noticeable. They know chemical compositions and treatments that improve the health of the lawn and enhances the lawn’s beauty and curb appeal.

3. Reduces Costs

Lawn maintenance is a serious financial investment just based on the equipment alone. From spreaders, sprayers, to mixing utensils, homeowners have to spend a substantial amount of money to keep their lawn healthy on their own.

Lawn services have professional-grade equipment and supplies. By servicing multiple clients, their rates remain low. It’s cheaper to simply purchase the services of professionals than incurring the expenses of buying, storing, and maintaining the equipment and supplies.

Take those savings and go to a restaurant with your spouse, go to the movies with your kids, or go on a family vacation.

The lawn care professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation have over 30 years of experience, ensuring that the grass is always greener in your yard. From proper aeration and pest removal to soil testing and seeding, it’s their mission to keep the grass lush, safe, and fun. For more information on their irrigation and lawn services, visit their website . If you’re in the Cincinnati, OH, area, call (513) 755-9434 for an appointment.

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Lawn Care Provider

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 16:37:24 GMT

Maintaining a pristine, green lawn requires a lot of work. If you don't have the time, tools, or energy to do the job yourself, you can hire a lawn care professional to take care of it. A lawn service professional can take your lawn to the next level, transforming an average yard into a lush oasis. However, it's important to vet any company thoroughly before hiring them. The following are some questions to ask before you invest in professional lawn services.

What Should Homeowners Ask Potential Lawn Care Providers?

How long have you been in business?

Creating beautiful lawns requires knowing everything from regional soil quality to what grasses thrive in the local climate. You want a lawn care provider with many years of experience building this knowledge. A longstanding business is also a testament to general success.

Are You Bonded & Insured?

Depending on the tasks at hand, such as irrigation installation, the lawn care experts may have to operate large machinery to complete your project. To ensure everyone’s safety and liability, they must be bonded and insured.

Can You Provide an Analysis?

Not all lawns are created equal. A quality company should provide personalized care based on your lawn's needs—for example, by conducting a soil test to help assess your lawn’s problems and the best solution to combat the issues. They can advise on necessary changes, like seeding with a more regionally appropriate grass.

What kind of guarantees do you offer?

Any reputable lawn service company will offer a warranty on their work. You don't want a company to show up, do some work, and disappear—only to discover that their work is ineffective. It's best to learn what recourse you have.

Can you provide testimonials?

An effective way to obtain objective opinions about a lawn care company's ability is to talk to former or current customers. A reputable provider will often feature reviews on their website. You can also look up reviews using tools like Google My Business or directly ask the company for references.

If you're looking for a top-quality lawn care provider in the Cincinnati, OH, area, consult with Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . These professionals have been in business for over 25 years. They offer every new customer a soil test and are so confident in the quality of their work, that they provide a satisfaction guarantee. Visit the website for details on their guarantee, or call (513) 755-943 4 to request a quote.

Best Times to Get Tree & Shrub Maintenance

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 16:42:56 GMT

ree maintenance helps ensure that your trees and shrubs stay healthy and beautiful. It is an essential aspect of your lawn care routine for keeping away insects and other pests and allowing optimal growth conditions. However, what isn't as well known is when is the best time to perform this essential service.

Why Winter is the Best Time for Tree & Shrub Maintenance

1. More Visibility

Because most trees, except for evergreens, lose their foliage during winter, it allows an arborist to more easily spot any areas that have been damaged or need extra care. Additionally, it can help an arborist to see areas of deadwood. Deadwood can become an issue because it is one of the leading causes of falling tree limbs, which can cause property damage and even injuries.

This also lets you keep an eye on your tree after pruning to ensure that any cuts heal and no issues have arisen.

2. Less Chance of Insect Problems

One of the main issues affecting trees and shrubs after pruning is that they are more susceptible to insect infestation or harm. This is because pruning can leave open wounds on trees, and insects are attracted to the revealed sap. However, insects are more likely to be in dormant stages during colder months. This means that you can avoid this issue altogether by engaging in lawn care during the winter months.

3. Faster Healing

During winter, trees are in a dormant stage. This means that they are not expending energy and resources on new bud growth or foliage production and can put that energy towards healing from any wounds left by the pruning process. Additionally, during winter, trees are less susceptible to pathogens, such as disease and fungus.

4. Less Danger to Property

Because the ground is frozen during winter, it is firmer and can more efficiently handle any heavy equipment or vehicles needed during the tree pruning process. You also will not need to worry about heavy equipment causing issues to your grass or any plants, as they will be in a dormant stage.

If your trees and shrubs are ready for some maintenance, then turn to the lawn care experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. Their skilled team of technicians can create a customized care plan for your lawn and trees. With over 25 years of experience, they will ensure that your greenery looks excellent year after year. Call them at (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more.

A Guide to Deep Root Feeding

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 16:44:42 GMT

What Are the Benefits of Deep Root Feeding?

Typically, fertilization requires applying granules or a liquid nutrient to the soil's surface, where it must trickle down through the dirt slowly. In contrast, deep root feeding deposits the nutrients deep into the earth using a pressurized injection system. This ensures the food reaches the roots effectively and efficiently.

The roots soak up the food, allowing the plant to get immediate nourishment. That fuel is then carried up through the roots to other parts of the plant over time, resulting in healthier, denser, lusher growth overall.

When Is Deep Root Feeding Needed?

Deep root fertilization may be necessary for plants in compacted soil, where nutrients, water, and oxygen can't easily penetrate. Injected fertilizer may also be helpful if a plant is relocated from its natural habitat and adapting to a new environment or otherwise showing signs of stress.

The winter fertilization makes your trees and shrubs stronger and provides you with better blooming and enhanced vitality next spring. Balanced root feeding, scheduled on a regular basis helps to improve and protect your growing landscape investment.

A Guide to Winter Fertilization

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:47:05 GMT

Most homeowners strive to keep healthy, beautiful lawns. Fertilization is an essential component of any comprehensive lawn care plan, giving your grass the valuable nutrients it needs for strong, lush growth. Although plants go dormant over the winter, ceasing active growth and conserving their energy for the spring, they can still benefit from a final round of winter fertilization to provide fuel before snow and ice arrive in the late fall.

Why Is Winter Fertilization Important?

Fertilizers are generally made of three key ingredients: phosphorous, nitrogen, and potassium. Each of these nutrients has a role. Phosphorous helps support photosynthesis, potassium strengthens root systems, and nitrogen helps the plants create protein and grow strong blades. Winter fertilization uses a unique formula that contains more nitrogen than the fertilizers typically applied in spring or summer.

This nitrogen-heavy mixture should be applied before the grass is fully dormant—anywhere from late October to early December, depending on the region. The grass takes the nitrogen and stores it in its roots throughout the winter. When the temperatures rise, the plants use this energy source to spur their first round of spring growth. Correctly applied, winter fertilizer can give you a head start on growth the following year.

How to Fertilize for the Winter

Successful winter fertilization requires first removing leaves and other debris that could interfere with the fertilizer penetrating the earth. It's also helpful to aerate the soil, alleviating compaction and making it easier for the nutrients to reach the roots below. A lawn care professional can advise on what fertilizer is suitable for your lawn based on a soil test and take care of fertilization, aeration, and irrigation.

For help with your winter fertilization in Cincinnati, OH, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Locally owned and operated, this lawn care and irrigation system company has over 25 years of experience. They provide all new clients with a soil test, ensuring they can provide the perfect fertilizer mixture for your lawn's needs. Visit the website for a lawn care calendar, or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

A Guide to Fall Fertilization

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 16:49:53 GMT

Why Fertilize in the Fall?

Although grass goes dormant in winter, the roots are still growing and developing under the ground making it still important to fertilize in the fall. The nutrients you provide will strengthen plants for the winter—plus, any extra nutrients will be stored in the roots, giving the grass a readily available fuel source to tap into when spring arrives. This can spur the first significant boost in growth when the weather warms up.

What Type of Fertilizer Should I Use in the Fall?

Fertilizers are formulated with various breakdowns of the key nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Nitrogen supports foliage growth, while phosphorous supports root growth, and potassium supports the photosynthesis process. A fall fertilizer generally has a breakdown of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, respectively. However, every lawn is different, so it's best to have an expert test your soil to determine what nutrients your lawn needs.

Fall Fertilization Best Practices

Ideally, fertilizer should be applied two to three weeks before the first frost, in the morning or early evening. This allows the dew on the grass to moisten the turf, making it easier for fertilizer to penetrate the earth. Before fertilization, the lawn should be cleared of leaves, mowed, and aerated, relieving soil compaction and ensuring the fertilizer can penetrate to the roots below. If you don't have the time for these tasks yourself, a lawn care professional can help.

A Guide to Blowing Out Your Sprinkler System for Winter

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 16:52:56 GMT

In the hot summer months, you rely on your sprinkler system to keep your lawn hydrated and thriving. However, grass seedlings go dormant in the cooler months, and you no longer need to water your lawn. To preserve your irrigation system and avoid damage when freezing temperatures arrive, you should have it drained before winter—a process known as blowing out. The following guide highlights how it works and why it's necessary.

Why You Should Have Your Sprinkler System Blown Out

Winterizing your sprinkler system by blowing it out will extend its longevity. If moisture is left in the lines and the temperature drops, the water may freeze. It will expand in the process, placing pressure on the sprinkler lines and causing fissures or breakage. The sprinkler system will then lack pressure, and water will leak into the ground, which is wasteful—and a surefire way to increase your utility costs.

How a Sprinkler System Is Blown Out

The blow-out process involves draining excess water from the lines by closing the backflow valves while using an air compressor to gradually force the remaining water out via the sprinkler heads. A zoned approach is required to ensure the lines are fully cleared. As each sprinkler head runs dry, it can be shut off until the entire irrigation system is drained. Once the compressor is disconnected, any pent-up air pressure in the system is released via the manual drain valves or backflow device. All valves can then be closed and the system shut down for winter.

Incorrectly blowing out a sprinkler system can cause a dangerous buildup of air pressure that may damage the lines or cause injury. It's best to leave this job to a professional who has the tools and expertise to do it correctly. However, you can help expedite the process by preparing accordingly. First, know where the main shut-off valve is for your irrigation system's water supply since the team will need to access it. Additionally, remove any obstacles on the lawn that could impede access to the sprinkler heads, like garden furniture or kids' toys.

For help winterizing your irrigation system for the cooler months, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH. These professionals have served the local area for over 30 years, providing reliable and honest labor. Visit the website to review their services, and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

A Guide to After Seeding Care

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 16:59:18 GMT

Regularly re-seeding your lawn allows you to address bare and sparse patches, encouraging lush and even growth. However, simply sowing grass seeds alone isn't enough if you want to see top-quality results. The actions you take in the days, weeks, and months after you re-seed can make a big difference in the quality of growth you see. The following guide explores the lawn care steps you can take to maximize the impact of re-seeding.

Right After Re-Seeding

Fresh grass seedlings must be protected against potential damage, so avoid foot traffic on your lawn by keeping pets and kids away from re-seeded areas. To encourage germination in these early stages, keep the ground damp in the first two weeks. Water for 20 minutes every day to maintain moisture. However, take care not to overwater, as this can wash away the seeds and fertilizer you applied during the re-seeding process.

Three & Four Weeks After Re-Seeding

By the time you've reached the third and fourth weeks after re-seeding, grass should have started germinating. You can cut watering to three to four times per week at this point. By now, you may also notice weeds starting to sprout. Hand-pull these to keep them from choking out the fresh seedlings. It's best to avoid using herbicides or other harsh lawn care chemicals that might interfere with new growth for the time being.

One Month & Beyond

By now, your grass should be long enough to mow. Wait until the new seedlings have reached a height at least one-third higher than the desired post-mowing height before mowing for the first time. Further, when you cut, make sure you don't remove more than one-third of the grass. Finally, maintain your regular fertilization schedule going forward. A pre-winter and spring fertilizer are usually the bare minimum needed. Your precise fertilization needs will depend on your lawn's soil health.

For help with your lawn care after re-seeding, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH. These professionals provide every new client with a personalized soil test, allowing them to determine the lawn's exact fertilization needs. Visit the website to learn more about their services, and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

Why Aerate & Seed Before the Fall?

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 17:04:53 GMT

our lawn undergoes a lot of wear and tear over the summer months, with kids, adults, and pets alike spending more time outdoors. From garden parties for the grownups to slip-and-slides for the kids, the increased foot traffic can harm turf. As summer wanes, it's the perfect time for aeration and seeding to repair the damage.

What Are Aeration & Seeding?

Aeration involves poking holes in the soil using a special machine, which pulls plugs of dirt out of the earth. These plugs dissolve over time, redepositing nutrients back into the soil. Seeding is the process of spreading fresh grass seeds across a lawn, addressing areas of sparse growth and filling gaps. These processes help create lush and healthy lawns when combined with irrigation and fertilization.

What Are the Benefits of Aeration & Seeding in the Fall?

The pressure of foot traffic on your lawn's surface over the summer compacts the soil, making it harder for oxygen, fertilizer, and water to penetrate the earth. Aeration loosens up the soil and alleviates compaction, so grass roots can get the nutrients they need. Loosening the soil also makes it easier for new grass to grow, as seedlings often germinate inside the aerated holes.

Seeding introduces new grass that can fill out sparse areas where your lawn has thinned out over the summer. By allowing for denser growth, seeding also creates a strong root network underground. This makes your lawn more resistant to pests and diseases that have an easier time taking hold in weakened lawns. All of this adds up to a lusher, healthier, more beautiful yard.

Help your lawn be its healthiest with aeration and seeding services from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. These lawn care professionals have over 25 years of experience and know what it takes to create lush lawns. They are a locally owned and operated company, serving Clermont, Warren, Butler, and Hamilton counties. Visit the website to learn about their satisfaction guarantee, or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule service.

A Guide to Nutsedge Control

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 17:08:43 GMT

Nutsedge, also known simply as nutgrass, is a weed that commonly infiltrates lawns during hot weather after large amounts of rain, emerging in late spring or early summer. The grass grows very quickly from tiny tubers, extended up to a foot into the soil. A single nutsedge plant may ultimately form a patch up to ten feet in diameter, thanks to its aggressive growth. Find out what lawn care steps you can take to prevent and contain nutsedge in the following guide.

Nutsedge Prevention

Proper lawn care can prevent nutsedge. The weed generally thrives in damp areas, so it's important to ensure your lawn has adequate drainage. Don't water too frequently and regularly aerate, so the soil will be sufficiently porous to soak up moisture. You can also help prevent nutsedge from taking control of your lawn by nurturing healthy grass. Nutsedge can more easily infiltrate weak grass.

Fertilization provides your grass with valuable nutrients like phosphorous, potassium, and nitrogen that it needs to thrive. You can also adapt your mowing to prevent nutsedge by setting your mower at one of the two top settings. This allows grass to grow sufficiently to crowd out weeds, blocking them from getting the sun they'd need to take root.

Nutsedge Control

If you notice nutsedge in your lawn, act quickly before it spreads. You can identify the weed because it's lighter than regular grass, with more of a yellowish or light green hue. It also has a V-shaped stem. Some nutsedge types have a yellow tip, while others have a purple tip. Yellow nutsedge can grow up to 16 inches in height, while purple nutsedge rarely exceeds six inches.

It's usually best not to pull nutsedge because this causes it to produce new tubers that sprout fresh growth. Plus, pulling the rhizomes—which can extend 14 inches into the soil—cleanly is tricky. Herbicides are thus the best way to control nutsedge. Look for products with the active ingredients Sulfentrazone or Halosulfuron, which are shown to control nutsedge. If you catch the infestation early, a single herbicide application can be sufficient.

If nutsedge seems to be taking over your lawn, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. These lawn care experts have provided customized services for over 33 years, creating personalized plans for every lawn. They offer fertilization, weed control, seeding, and core aeration. Visit them online for a complete list of services, or call (513) 755-9434 to book your appointment.

How to Identify Common Lawn Diseases

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 17:12:42 GMT

A healthy lawn is both pretty and practical, boosting your home's curb appeal. Unfortunately, pests and disease can interfere with your grass' health, leaving your yard looking brown, sparse, and generally unattractive. Identifying the issue lets you implement an appropriate lawn treatment . The following guide explores how to recognize common lawn issues.

Brown Patch

This lawn disease is true to its name, as it is characterized by circular patches of dead, brown grass. Sometimes these circles can be as big as three feet in diameter. You can prevent brown patch by avoiding over-fertilization and excessive watering, as high humidity contributes to the condition. Adjusting irrigation techniques and moderating fertilizer can fix the situation.

Red Thread Disease

his lawn care issue causes grass to develop a bleached or reddish tint. The blades may be "tied" together by red spores that create reddish threads. Red thread lawn disease can be caused by everything from poor air circulation to excess shade or too much humidity. Lawn care treatments may range from aeration for allowing more oxygen into the soil to decreasing watering.

Dollar Spot Disease

This lawn issue causes large circles—about the size of a silver dollar—to appear on lawns. Individual blades generally develop yellowish spots, giving them a straw-like appearance. This issue is usually caused by insufficient fertilization, although drought and excess thatch can also be to blame. Adjusting fertilization and irrigation and removing thatch can help.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, can diagnose and treat various lawn diseases. This lawn care company takes a holistic approach, addressing everything from irrigation to soil health. Every new customer gets started with a complimentary soil test. Find out how it works on their website . To schedule lawn treatment, call (513) 755-9434 .

Grub Control Tips for Your Lawn

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 17:14:47 GMT

Grubs in your yard's soil can cause damage to grass seedlings and other plants by feeding on the roots. These pesky critters can also attract other animals that eat them, like birds, skunks, moles, and raccoons—which then further damage your lawn by digging into it to get a meal. If you have grubs, it's important to take swift action. The following grub control measures can help.

Identify the Problem

The first step in tackling a white grub problem is identifying it. Signs of grubs include dead or damaged turf and holes from larger animals digging into the soil. If you notice such signs, dig a square foot into your turf at least two inches deep. White grubs are identifiable by their white, curved bodies, resembling the letter C, and grow up to 1.5 inches in length. Your lawn should not have more than about five grubs per square foot.

Use a Grub Control Insecticide

Grubs generally hatch in mid-summer and then feed from August until about late October when they're fully grown. The creatures then burrow further into the earth for the winter before returning closer to the soil's surface to resume feeding and lay new eggs in spring. If you already have too many adult grubs in your lawn, a curative insecticide containing trichlorfon and carbaryl can help. These solutions can be applied in September or October to kill adult grubs.

Apply a Preventive Product

If you've had grubs in the past, it's also important to apply a preventive product going forward. Preventive products containing clothianidin, imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, or chlorantraniloprole target newly hatched grubs, attacking them when they are younger and more vulnerable. These solutions are best applied in mid-summer shortly after grubs hatch. If you use preventive solutions too early in the season, the insecticide will degrade before the grubs hatch. If you apply it too late, it won't work as effectively on more mature grubs.

For professional grub control services in Cincinnati, OH, or the surrounding areas, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . These professionals have served the area for over three decades. Thanks to their in-depth knowledge of the local vegetation and climate, and their extensive experience, they can create healthy, grub-free, lush lawns. For an appointment, call (513) 755-9434 .

A Guide to Mowing Your Yard

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 17:19:07 GMT

Mowing is an essential lawn care step that keeps your grass looking tidy. However, it isn't just about aesthetics. Proper mowing is essential for your lawn's health. If grass blades get too long, they prevent sunshine from reaching shorter blades below, resulting in weak growth and a patchy overall appearance. The following guide offers tips for properly mowing your lawn.

3 Tips for Properly Mowing Your Lawn

1. Don't Cut Grass Too Short

Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade. If the grass is too short, the roots will weaken. This makes the blades more vulnerable to pests, disease, and drought. Further, when the grass is weakened, it's easier for weeds to infiltrate your lawn and leech nutrients, oxygen, and water from the soil. To ensure you aren't cutting too short, avoid mowing too frequently. Usually, every one to two weeks is sufficient.

2. Make Sure Your Mower Is Prepped

You can adjust the mower height to avoid cutting the grass too short. Further, make sure the mower blades are sharpened. A sharp blade creates a clean cut, while a dull one results in an unclean cut that shreds the tips of the grass blades, damaging them. Sharp mower blades also save you time, allowing for more efficient work.

3. Choose Your Mowing Time Wisely

It's best to mow in the early morning or the evening when it's cooler out. This helps the grass roots retain moisture. If you mow in the middle of the day when the sun is shining, the rays will soak up the moisture. Whenever you mow, make sure the grass is dry. Don't mow too early or too late when dew is on the lawn. Mowing wet grass results in an unclean cut, shredding the blades. Mowing when wet can also be dangerous for you, as you don't want to risk slipping on the slick lawn.

It takes more than regular mowing to create a lush lawn. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, offers the full suite of lawn care services you need for a beautiful yard, including fertilization, core aeration, and irrigation. These experts have served the area for over 25 years. They know that every yard is unique and will create a personalized lawn care plan for new clients based on a soil test. View a list of their services online , or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule service.

Why You Should Spray for Weed Control

Mon, 17 May 2021 17:22:50 GMT

Weeds aren't just an unsightly nuisance that detracts from your lawn's physical appearance. They can also harm the general health of your lawn and garden as they compete with grass, flowers, and other growth for air, water, and nutrients in the soil. The following guide explains why spraying targeted weed killer is one of the most effective forms of weed control.

Types of Weed Killer

Weed killers, also known as herbicides, help control unwanted plant growth. They fall into a few different categories. Selective herbicides are formulated to kill a certain type of plant, while nonselective herbicides will kill every plant they come into contact with.

Further, herbicides can be pre-emergent versus post-emergent. Pre-emergent formulas are designed to prevent weeds from taking root and are applied before they sprout. Post-emergent formulas work after the plant is already growing. Finally, there are contact versus systemic solutions. A contact solution kills a plant when it touches it, while a systemic solution is absorbed by the plant's roots, killing it internally.

Benefits of Spray-On Weed Control

Spray-on weed killers are available in various formulas, allowing you to choose the herbicide category that best suits your needs. A spray-on application offers a few distinct advantages. First, there's flexibility. You can quickly spot-treat an area or opt for broader spraying if you want to cover more space. They are easy to apply and eliminate the need for the strenuous manual labor of pulling weeds out by the roots with your hands.

Further, you can use a spray-on weed killer not only to treat but also prevent weeds from growing in the first place—you just have to select the right pre-emergent formula. In general, choosing the right solution is critical to successful weed control. For example, you don't want to apply something that will kill off further growth in your garden. A lawn care professional can advise on what option will best fit your landscaping's unique needs.

Keep your lawn and garden weed-free with professional assistance from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Located in Cincinnati, OH, these lawn care professionals have over two decades of experience creating lush lawns. They provide a personalized lawn care plan based on a soil test assessing your garden's unique needs. Visit their website for a complete list of services, from weed killer applications to irrigation and aeration. To book a service, call (513) 755-9434 .

The Advantages of Using a Lawn Care Service

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 17:28:31 GMT

A lush green lawn helps your home look lively and inviting, but not everyone has the time or expertise to maintain their yards perfectly. When you rely on a lawn care service, you can enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more vigorous lawn. Here’s why you should leave the work to the experts.

Why You Should Hire a Lawn Care Company

1. Save Time & Energy

One of the main reasons homeowners hire professionals is because they are simply too busy. Proper lawn care is a big commitment, and it takes a lot of time and energy that many people don’t have. Not only do you need to put in labor for fertilizing, aerating, weed and pest control, and other important tasks, but you must also research the proper lawn care techniques and then visit the store for the necessary equipment. When you hire a company, you can relax or tend to other responsibilities as they get the work done. They work efficiently and will likely finish faster, as well.

2. Professional Tools & Experience

If you don’t know how to tend to your lawn or have the tools to do it correctly, you could end up hurting your grass and soil. For example, using too much or the wrong kind of weed killer can end up killing all of your grass, plants, and flowers. When in doubt, it is best to hire an expert. Lawn care professionals have the best tools and equipment to enhance your yard, and they know when and how to use them. They have experience improving the appearance and health of a lawn.

3. Get the Full Treatment

Taking care of your lawn is more than just making it look nice. There are several steps to a healthy yard that many people miss or aren’t aware of, but a lawn care company will provide the maintenance yours needs to thrive. If you're having trouble keeping your grass green and full, they can perform a soil test and recommend additional lawn services to help it grow back. From core aeration to irrigation system installation, they will ensure your lawn receives the proper care.

For superior lawn care in the Cincinnati, OH, area, get in touch with Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Serving homeowners throughout Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties for over 25 years, their skilled team is committed to leaving your grass strong and healthy with comprehensive lawn treatments and irrigation services. Call (513) 755-9434 to schedule lawn care, or visit their website for a complete list of services.

How to Tell if Your Lawn Is Compacted

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 17:36:21 GMT

A lush lawn requires healthy soil. If the soil in your yard or garden is compacted, it's difficult for grass and plants to get the nutrients, oxygen, and water they need to develop a strong, dense root network and thrive. Learn how to tell if your soil is compacted and what lawn care steps will prevent and address compaction.

What Is Compacted Soil?

Compacted soil is so dense that it decreases porosity, preventing water, nutrients from fertilizer, and oxygen from penetrating deeply into the ground. Compaction often results from heavy foot traffic or machinery, including kids playing on the lawn a lot or using a riding mower.

Signs a Lawn Is Compacted

Soil compaction makes it hard for grass roots to get the nourishment they need to thrive, causing turf thinning. Signs of compaction include patchy areas of grass, bare dirt areas, and pooling water in your lawn that doesn't absorb into the earth but runs off.

You can test how densely your soil is compacted by trying to pierce it with a shovel. If you can't get through, your soil is compacted.

How to Remedy Compacted Soil

Aeration is the solution for compacted soil. This process involves piercing the earth's surface to remove plugs of dirt, leaving small holes behind. These holes allow the ground to decompress and let nutrients, water, and air into the earth.

Aeration reduces the risk of compaction and can fix already compacted soil, resulting in thicker, healthier grass growth. Regular aeration is also beneficial because it allows fertilizer to penetrate deep into the earth to the roots below.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation serves Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas with comprehensive lawn care services, including aeration. These professionals have served area residents for over 25 years. They have the tools and knowledge needed to nurture healthy lawns, performing everything from pest and weed control to fertilization and irrigation. Visit their website to review their services, and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule a lawn care appointment.

The Importance of Tree & Shrub Feeding

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 17:39:22 GMT

Winter is tough on trees and shrubs. The days are shorter, bringing less sunlight, and the weather is dry, providing roots with less moisture. The soil lacks nutrients this time of year, as microorganisms cease natural decomposition processes that normally add goods like phosphorous, nitrogen, and potassium to the earth. You can help your trees and shrubs survive the harsh conditions with deep root feeding in the early winter. Here’s how this unique fertilization process helps.

How Deep Root Feeding Works

This process replenishes vitamins and nutrients in the soil around the tree's or shrub's root zone by injecting fertilizer directly into the soil around the plant’s base. It reaches the roots more effectively and quickly than a surface layer application of fertilizer that can't dissipate deep into the earth.

Benefits of Deep Root Fertilization

In winter, plants go dormant, ceasing active growth and focusing on survival. Trees and shrubs tap into nutrient reserves stored in their roots to make it through the harsh weather. This can leave them weakened come spring. With deep root feeding, trees and shrubs don't have to use their energy stores, resulting in strong growth come spring.

The benefits of deep root fertilization are visible. Stronger trees and shrubs are more resistant to pests and disease, resulting in fewer broken branches and less die-off. Flowering trees and shrubs will bloom more actively as well. A strong root network strengthens plants, making them more resistant to bad weather like heavy winds.

The Deep Root Feeding Process

A lawn care professional will mix a special fertilizer tailored to meet the needs of your trees and shrubs. The liquid fertilizer is then injected directly into the soil around the plant's base and continues feeding the plants through out the year.

If you’d like to provide your trees and shrubs the benefits of deep root feeding, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH. These lawn care professionals offer the essential services you need to nurture a lush and healthy garden. Visit their website for a full list of lawn care treatments, and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule your deep root fertilization.

The Benefits of Fall Fertilization

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 17:42:35 GMT

Many homeowners only schedule lawn fertilization as winter tapers off into spring. While fertilizing in the spring is necessary for lawn health and growth during the summer months, nourishing the yard in the fall has specific advantages. From helping it recover to promoting stronger growth, your lawn will be a point of pride for you and a source of envy for your neighbors.

Why Should Homeowners Invest in Fall Lawn Fertilization?

1. Summer Recovery

Even with proper irrigation, all lawns experience stress during the summer. It may come from heat, drought, or the increased foot traffic of playing children or hosting parties outdoors—if not all three. Fall fertilization provides nutrients the lawn needs to recover and has the added benefit of making the grass greener and last longer toward the end of the year rather than an unfed yard.

2. Winter Preparation

Lawns become hungry during the fall, especially as the growing season comes to an end. The carbohydrates and phosphorous in the fertilizer will become stored energy during the winter. They also stimulate root growth, depth, and strength before winter freezes the soil.

3. Increased Strength

Fertilization will also benefit other forms of plant life in your yard, like flowers, shrubs, and trees. A superphosphate fertilizer injection into the soil will strengthen plant roots, allowing more flowers to grow once spring begins.

In the winter, shrubs and trees are deprived of the nitrogen provided by decomposing mulch beds. This is particularly noticeable in trees; when they need fertilization, their leaves will have a pale yellow color rather than a healthy green. With a light use of slow-release nitrogen, trees and shrubs will be under less stress from the weather. Their health will improve, and their growth will be stimulated in the spring. They’ll also have the energy they need to combat pests and disease effectively, ensuring their health in the long-run.

Trees also experience a lack of necessary nutrients when their fallen leaves are raked. When allowed to decompose naturally, they provide nutrients trees will benefit from over the winter.

4. Improved Results

Once spring arrives, the benefits of fall fertilization will become even more evident. The stored nutrients will allow the growing season to start earlier, as the roots are stronger and have more energy. Homeowners can expect to see their lawn turn green again between two and six weeks ahead of schedule. Once the grass comes in, you’ll notice that it’s also thicker and has a healthier color.

The strength also lends itself to resilience, with the lawn becoming more resistant to disease and drought in the spring and summer months.

By scheduling fertilization in the fall, the grass and the soil will be ready for the winter ahead. To ensure your lawn is given proper treatment, reach out to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . For nearly 30 years, their team has offered comprehensive care at affordable rates. Their irrigation and lawn care technicians are available throughout the Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties of Cincinnati, OH. For more information on their services, visit their website . To schedule an appointment, call (513) 755-9434 .

Why You Should Core Aerate

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 17:44:12 GMT

If you want a lush expanse of green lawn, it requires much more than just seeding and watering the grass. You must also undertake regular mowing, fertilization, and core aeration .

How Core Aeration Works

Core aeration is considered one of the most important cultural practices available for a lawn. It helps control thatch, improves the soil structure, create growth pockets for new roots, and opens the way for water and fertilizer to reach the root zone of the lawn.

Thatch is organic debris, such as old grass clippings and leaves, that forms a dense layer over the lawn. When soil becomes too densely packed, it blocks sunlight, water, fertilizer, and air from penetrating the soil’s surface and reaching the grass roots.

Core aeration involves perforating the soil and removing hundreds of small cylindrical plugs of soil 1” to 3” in length from the lawn. The holes created by aeration helps remove the obstruction and allows grass to get the fertilizer and let water and oxygen move more freely into the root zone. It causes turf roots to naturally grow toward these growth pockets and supports the healthy growth of a dense root network.

When You Should Aerate

The fall season is a perfect time to aerate, as grass quickly fills in gaps where plugs are removed. Fall aeration is also useful since your lawn likely got heavy use in the summer, thanks to kids and pets playing outdoors.

Regular aeration helps thatch break down naturally by mixing the soil cores into the thatch and speeding up decomposition. Performed once or twice a year per year, aeration significantly reduces thatch and improves turf growth.

Please call Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation today to schedule your fall lawn aeration at (513) 755-9434.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, provides comprehensive lawn care services, including core aeration. They have the professional tools and techniques that turn out top-quality results. Plus, with over 25 years of experience in the area, they are well-acquainted with the local climate and vegetation. Visit their website for a comprehensive lawn care calendar covering their services. Call (513) 755-9434 to discuss your needs.

What Are the Most Common Fertilizer Ingredients?

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 17:46:58 GMT

When grass isn't getting the nutrients it needs, it may become brown or patchy—or die altogether. Fertilization provides plants with the valuable food they need to grow green, lush, and strong. Learn about the most common fertilizer ingredients and signs that your lawn is missing these vital nutrients.

Nitrogen

Nitrogen is a building block of chlorophyll, the pigment that gives grass its green color. It's also used to activate the production of plant enzymes and amino acids, allowing seedlings to grow and reproduce.

You can tell your lawn is lacking nitrogen if it turns yellow. Slower than usual growth may also indicate a lack of this nutrient. If you have to mow less frequently, your lawn might need more nitrogen.

Phosphorous

Plants rely on their roots to soak up oxygen, nutrients, and water from the earth. Phosphorous promotes a strong, dense root network, as plants convert it to sugars and starches used to grow roots.

Phosphorous is also used in photosynthesis, the process through which plants distribute nutrients throughout their cells. Grass that isn't getting enough phosphorous may turn dark green and become patchy, growing fewer and smaller blades.

Potassium

Potassium also supports photosynthesis by activating the enzymes grass needs to build proteins and regulate water use. Without sufficient potassium, the grass is unable to fight off pests and disease effectively.

Early signs of potassium deficiency include leaves that curl at the sides or develop spots. Grass blades may also exhibit a scorched look, turning yellowish-brown at the edges.

If you aren't sure what your lawn and garden need to look their best, let Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, help. This locally owned lawn care and irrigation company offers a free soil test to all new clients to determine exactly what nutrients are missing. With over 25 years of experience, they are known for producing lush, green lawns. In addition to fertilization services, they also provide irrigation and aeration. Visit their website to learn more about their satisfaction guarantee. To schedule a lawn care service, call (513) 755-9434 .

A Quick Guide to Common Lawn Weeds

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 17:51:56 GMT

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2. Crabgrass

This weed is generally low-growing, but it can get up to 2 feet tall in some cases. It thrives in hot conditions, so you’ll notice crabgrass during the summer.

Once crabgrass forms seeds, they can stay in the soil for years, so it’s important to control this weed right away. To do that, mow your lawn every couple of weeks during the warm season. Make sure the lawn stays around 3 to 4 inches tall. If it grows quickly, you may need to mow weekly.

3. Canada Thistle

This perennial plant is particularly aggressive and hard to get rid of with a weed killer. Plus, it can grow 2 to 4 feet tall. It spreads via seeds and rootstocks. If you have canada thistle on your lawn, you’ll notice it growing in the spring. In the summer, it’ll produce purple flowers, especially during July and August.

Because the weed has a deep root system, it’s difficult to control. In fact, the roots can grow nearly 15 feet. To stop it from taking hold, use a hoe when they first start growing. Another option is to take away the nutrients it depends on. Do this by planting competitive crops, such as winter rye.

If you’re having trouble keeping the above weeds at bay, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Serving Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont, OH, they’ve been working with Cincinnati homeowners and business owners for over 25 years. They provide affordable weed killer and lawn care services. Call (513) 755-9434 to set up an appointment, or visit their website to learn more.

The Importance of Grub Control for the Lawn

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 17:55:59 GMT

Grub control is an essential part of any comprehensive lawn care plan. These nasty critters cause unsightly brown patches on your lawn, killing the grass. Here’s how these small creatures manage to do such significant damage and what you can do to prevent it.

How Grubs Kill Your Lawn

Grubs are immature beetles. To grow into their adult form, they need nutrition, and their preferred form of food is grass roots and other organic matter in the soil. When they feed on roots, they cause grass to die.

You will recognize the presence of grubs when brown patches of dead grass start to appear on the lawn. Grubs may also attract animals that like to feed on them, such as skunks and raccoons. This will result in further damage as these furry creatures dig up your grass in search of a tasty treat.

What Grub Control Entails

Grub control is most effective when grubs are young and most susceptible to pesticide treatment. Instead of waiting for brown spots to appear, inspect your lawn for signs of an infestation. A healthy lawn may have anywhere from zero to nine grubs per square foot. More than nine means it's time to take action.

Apply pesticides in mid-to-late summer and early fall when the grubs are still young; curative solutions kill the pests on contact. There are also preventative fertilization measures. Another option is to add microscopic organisms called nematodes to the soil. These parasitic creatures make themselves at home on grubs, eventually killing them, without harming your lawn.

Grub control isn't a one-time job; it requires regular lawn care. Let Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, do the work for you. This lawn care and irrigation company serves Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties with high-quality products and services. With over 25 years of experience in the area, they know the ins and outs of the local foliage, climate, and soil—as well as local pests. Learn more about their satisfaction guarantee online . To discuss your lawn care needs, call (513) 755-9434 .

Why You Should Fertilize Your Lawn in Early Spring

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 17:58:16 GMT

Spring is a season of growth; flowers bloom, plants sprout, and trees and bushes develop fresh, green foliage. Fertilizing your lawn in early spring ensures grass roots have the nutrients they need for healthy development. Here’s how fertilization helps.

How Fertilization Supports Springtime Growth

Over the winter, grass roots go dormant and cease growing to conserve energy and survive the cold temperatures. This, coupled with a decrease in sunlight, leaves lawns looking dull and less green by the time spring arrives.

Cool-season turfgrasses do most of their active growing in spring. Applying the fertilizer at the start of the season is ideal. That way, the fertilizer is ready to feed the lawn when the grass needs it.

Fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. The nitrogen gives the grass its dark green color; the phosphorous promotes deep root growth; and the potassium makes roots stronger, resulting in grass that is more resistant to diseases and pests.

How to Fertilize Your Yard

First, test the soil. Check for levels of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium to guide your product selection—different fertilizers have various ratios of these substances. Before fertilization, aerate the soil; the tiny holes make it easier for the fertilizer to reach the roots.

When applying fertilizer, distribute an average of one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Excess fertilization won't benefit the lawn and can even create yellow patches, known as fertilizer burn. This occurs when the soluble salts found in fertilizers build up on grass blades.

If you need help with your springtime aeration and fertilization, let Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, do the job for you. Their skilled technicians start with a soil test for each new client, ensuring you get a tailor-made lawn care solution. With over 30 years in the business, this locally owned and operated company has a reputation for effective solutions and friendly customer service. Visit their website to review their comprehensive offerings, and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule service.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Care Provider

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 17:19:01 GMT

A lush lawn doesn't happen by chance. It requires proper seeding, fertilization, weed and pest control, among other services. The right lawn care provider can banish brown spots and encourage healthy growth in your lawn. Here’s what to consider when choosing a professional.

How to Decide on a Lawn Service

1. Services

Ideally, you will be able to find one provider to handle all of your lawn care needs. This could include everything from fertilization to aeration, weed control, seeding, irrigation, and pest control. Ask for a full list of services up-front and decide what is best needed for your specific lawn.

2. Experience

Trust companies with hands-on experience and professionals who have been working locally. They will be acquainted with the climate, grass, and type of soil in your geographic area. This ensures they have the tools and knowledge needed for lawn care success.

3. Testimonials

Many reputable lawn care providers offer testimonials on their websites. This allows you to get an idea of what they're like to work with, such as how punctual or personable they are. Ask potential service providers to put you in touch with former clients or neighbors as references, giving you a chance to ask questions directly.

4. Customer Relations

You can tell a lot about a company through your interactions with them before you even hire them. Assess their customer service; they should be courteous and professional and respond to phone calls or emails promptly. Finally, they should be able to answer questions comprehensively.

For trustworthy lawn care professionals in and around Cincinnati, OH, look to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . They have been serving the area for more than 30 years. With their extensive knowledge of the area's foliage and climate, they know how to create lush lawns. Their comprehensive services include fertilization, seeding, weed control, pest control, irrigation, grub control, aeration, and much more. They even offer a satisfaction guarantee—find out how it works online . Call (513) 755-9434 to discuss your lawn care needs.

A Guide to Fertilization of Your Lawn and Plants This Winter

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 18:00:29 GMT

Before winter snows arrive to stay, give your lawn, trees, and shrubs some extra attention. Taking steps now can help your grass and landscape plants weather the harsh temperatures and come back greener and more vibrant and flowering in the spring. The guide below explains late-fall / winter fertilization and deep root feeding benefits your landscape and when you should apply it.

How Late-Fall Fertilization Helps

While landscape on the surface may turn brown and look dead, the root system below is still active during the winter. If it has the necessary nutrients, the root system can repair itself from summer damage, growing deeper, thicker, and stronger until the cold season is over. That means it will be more effective at resisting drought and less likely to contract diseases.

Supporting your lawn and plant’s root systems with fertilization and deep root feeding doesn’t just make it more resilient—it also helps it spring to life when warmer months roll around. Thanks to your efforts now, you can enjoy a greener, lusher, flowering landscape next year. It will also require less water because of its deeper root structure.

When to Apply It

Ideally, your fertilization should be handled by a professional, as they can prescribe the perfect mix of slow- and fast-release nitrogen to provide an up-front boost and sustained nutritional support. Also, applying too much fertilizer can cause too much growth, making the lawn and landscape less resilient and more likely to contract a disease. Call a professional for a fertilizer application before the ground freezes for the winter.

If you need a professional to help you prepare your lawn and plants for the winter, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH. In addition to fertilization, they can handle pesky insects, install irrigation systems to make upkeep even easier, and aerate your lawn to boost root growth further. To schedule service, call (513) 755-9434 . Visit their website to view a comprehensive lawn care calendar.

How Your Lawn Benefits From Late-Fall Fertilization

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 18:05:18 GMT

Preparing your lawn to endure the cold means getting a jump on fertilization now. Late autumn is the ideal time to provide the nutrients for your yard because the temperatures are not as cold, and the ground is pliable enough for fertilizer to penetrate. Here are several lawn care benefits of applying treatments before winter arrives.

4 Benefits of Fertilizing Your Lawn in Late Fall

1. Enhances Turf Color

Treated lawns are prone to produce greener and more vibrant turfs. Depending on the species of grass, stronger turf color can appear up to six weeks before the official start of spring. That’s because lawn care that includes late-fall fertilization applications provides powerful shots of nitrogen designed to enhance grass color.

2. Stimulates Root Growth

Most lawns store their energy in roots to endure the frigid winter weather. Applying fertilizer toward the end of the fall season helps stimulate root growth. The soil’s temperature is typically within an ideal range for healthy root development, as opposed to later on in the winter season when the ground tends to freeze.

3. Minimizes Disease

A late-fall fertilizer treatment may also reduce the chances of diseased grass brought on by snow and ice. The lawn care procedure provides extra protection against weeds, fungus, and other weather-related culprits. Lawns are also more resistant to producing hard blades in the spring.

4. Provides Essential Carbohydrates

Lawns require an ample supply of carbohydrates for energy during the winter season. Fertilizer, especially when applied during late autumn, provides a power source that helps maintain lawn growth, which tends to slow down during the winter.

Protect your green spaces from the winter freeze with fertilization treatments from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding area, the professional lawn care company has a team of experienced technicians who provide customized service for your yard’s unique needs. From weed, insect, and grub control to core aeration and irrigation installation and maintenance, you can count on them for expert care year-round. To learn more, call (513) 755-9434 . Visit the website to view the fertilization calendar.

Why Is Lawn Aeration So Important?

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 18:08:14 GMT

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In addition to providing pathways for nutrients to reach the soil and plant roots, this technique can also promote a healthy balance of microorganisms, which help prevent disease in your lawn. If you also need to have new seed added to promote a fuller lawn, breaking up the soil can support germination, as it maximizes the soil-to-seed contact. Finally, looser soil can help decrease standing water and improve your lawn’s resilience.

When Is the Best Time to Aerate?

In general, lawn care experts advise homeowners to have their lawns aerated in the spring or fall. Early fall is the best time of year, as cooler temperatures support dampness. This will allow any new seed growth to germinate effectively, as the temperature and moisture levels support nutrient uptake and the rooting of existing grass.

If you’re seeking professional irrigation, aeration, and lawn care services in Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Their team helps local homeowners maintain lush, beautiful lawns, offering comprehensive services, including irrigation installation, aeration, fertilization, and mosquito control. Plan your treatments by viewing their lawn care calendar online , or call (513) 755-9434 to speak with a representative.

Sod Webworms: What They Are & How They Hurt Your Lawn

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 18:14:05 GMT

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Sod webworms feed on grass, causing dead patches that can be difficult to repair. The first sign of their feeding frenzy will be thin patches of grass that have been munched down to a shorter height than the surrounding seedlings.

While feeding usually starts in the spring, damage will progress throughout the summer if the problem isn’t addressed. Symptoms will become most evident in late July and August when large brown patches will appear on your lawn. To confirm that webworms and not drought are to blame, dig into the thatch of your lawn and look for telltale silk-lined tunnels. You can also try soaking the damaged lawn with a mixture of two tablespoons of dish soap and two gallons of water—this will cause the worms to come to the surface.

Preventing Webworms Through Lawn Care

The key to preventing sod webworms is maintaining healthy grass with appropriate lawn care: fertilization, irrigation, and aeration. This encourages strong growth that makes grass more resistant to diseases and pests. If you suspect you already have webworms, you can also call lawn care professionals to spray insecticide.

Controlling sod webworms requires extensive lawn care knowledge. If you believe you have a problem, let Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation formulate a tailor-made game plan to get rid of them. These professionals have been serving the Cincinnati, OH, area for over 25 years, and they are known in the community for top-quality results and prompt service. Learn about their satisfaction guaranteed program online or call (513) 755-9434 to discuss your lawn care needs with an expert.

Why Slow-Release Fertilizer Is Ideal for Your Lawn

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 18:19:20 GMT

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Why Are Slow-Release Formulas Best for Your Yard?

Slow-release fertilization ensures plants are "fed" regularly. A quick-release application is like eating one big meal in the hope that it will sustain you for weeks; water quickly leaches nutrients out of the soil, leaving no food for hungry roots after a short time.

Slow-release fertilization also makes it easier to dose. Quick-release formulas are easy to overapply, which can actually burn plants. The scorching effect gives leaves a yellow, brown, and withered appearance.

Slow-release fertilizers are suitable for a wide variety of gardens. The precise formula should be adapted to the plant; for example, turf grass requires a higher nitrogen ratio, while flowering plants need more phosphorus.

A lawn care professional can mix custom-made fertilizers that are tailored to your garden's needs. They can also add other useful substances like herbicides into the solution. This ensures multiple lawn care needs are addressed at once.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provides slow-release fertilization throughout Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas. This company is a trusted lawn care provider, known for creating and maintaining beautiful gardens with their custom solutions. With over 25 years of local experience, they are experts on what it takes to produce lush lawns. Learn about their satisfaction guarantee online . To schedule their lawn services, call (513) 755-9434 .

The Importance of Professional Weed Removal

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 18:22:32 GMT

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Removal is best left to a professional. Do-it-yourself work tends to do more harm than good; if you don’t remove the plant by its root, for instance, it will only grow back. From applying weed killer to tackling roots, a professional will provide the comprehensive approach that’s needed for lasting results.

What Types of Weeds Should You Look For?

One of the biggest reasons to hire a professional for weed removal is the simple fact that different plants require specific approaches for eradication. Some common types of weeds to look out for in the Ohio region include:

Annual Bluegrass: The blades are hairless and have a "seam" running down the middle. Seedlings cluster densely and can grow up to one foot in height.
Giant Foxtail: The giant foxtail has a fluffy, drooping seed head that resembles a fox's tail. This is complemented by leaves that are up to 16 inches in length. The plants can grow as high as 4 feet tall.
Annual Ryegrass: This weed is best recognized by the ridges on the upper surface of the blade, contrasting a glossy, smooth underside. They reach heights of up to 3 feet.

If you see any of these plants, have a lawn care company take action by applying weed killer and removing the roots before they spread and cause permanent damage.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation offers effective weed removal to Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas. They don’t just address the immediate problem but will also recommend steps to stave off future weeds and pests, such as fertilization and irrigation. In doing so, they give you a lush lawn that will last for years. Visit them online to learn more about their satisfaction guarantee. To schedule a weed killer appointment, call (513) 755-9434 .

How to Deal With a Crabgrass Infestation

Sat, 15 Jun 2019 13:14:44 GMT

When crabgrass is allowed to grow, it can quickly take over an entire area, interfering with your garden and plants. This weed is stubborn, difficult to fight, which is why homeowners turn to lawn care professionals to eliminate them from their yards. If you’re interested in learning more about the process, here are some of the techniques experts use to get rid of and prevent crabgrass.

Why Is Crabgrass So Resilient?

Crabgrass is difficult to deal with because of how it germinates. Before the first winter frost, it produces thousands of seeds that embed themselves in your yard. The crabgrass will die off during winter, but after the earth warms again, those seeds will grow. To combat this, experts prevent the seeds from ever taking root by using a pre-emergent herbicide in your lawn.

How Do Experts Remove It?

When you already have widespread crabgrass growth, lawn care professionals use a post-emergent herbicide containing chemicals such as quinclorac and DSMA to target crabgrass while leaving your plants unharmed. Standard herbicides don’t work for crabgrass since it’s thin-bladed, requiring a professional to identify the best product for your situation.

How Do I Avoid Crabgrass?

Crabgrass generally takes root in bare or thin areas of turf, so maintaining a lush lawn can help ensure you never experience these infestations. By installing irrigation, using fertilization , dethatching, and core aeration techniques , lawn care professionals will help you prevent weed growth and create a lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood.

For lawn care services to prevent or remove crabgrass, call Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Serving Cincinnati, OH and the surrounding areas, they have over 25 years of experience providing irrigation, aeration, weed killers, grub control, sprinkler systems, and other lawn treatments to keep your grassy fields green and lush. Visit them online to learn more about what they do, or call (513)755-9434 to schedule a service.

How to Mow for a Healthier Lawn

Thu, 23 May 2019 13:17:22 GMT

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To avoid this, cut only the top one-third of grass blades at any time. Adjust your mower settings accordingly. Also, try to vary your mowing pattern, as this can result in overly compact soil, which also makes it difficult for fertilizer and moisture to penetrate the earth and reach the hungry roots below.

Mowing Tools

Keep your mower blades sharp to make straight cuts. Jagged edges make the grass more susceptible to pests and disease, as harmful microorganisms will easily penetrate the ragged ends. Also, mowing when it’s damp will clog up the power deck and create clumps, resulting in an uneven trim. If you must do your lawn care while it’s wet, use a silicone spray on the bottom of the mower to keep grass from sticking to it.

With weeding, fertilizing, and mowing, it takes a lot to create a gorgeous garden. If you don’t have time to take care of these tasks yourself, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, to get the job done for you. These professionals have been serving clients for over 25 years, combining expert lawn care knowledge with top-quality customer care. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

What You Should Know About Red Thread Disease

Thu, 16 May 2019 13:20:24 GMT

During damp and humid times of the year, you might notice what looks like pink or red fibers clinging to patchy areas in the turf. Known as red thread, the fungus won’t kill the grass but can survive for years and spread to other areas. To keep the fungus out of your yard, here’s what you should know about what conditions cause it to grow and the best lawn treatment approach to take.

Why Red Thread Disease Develops

When grass is infected with red thread, it often looks dry and brittle. A mass resembling small branches called sclerotia can grow on the blades. Cotton-like, pink clusters of mycelium can also form at the blade intersections. The fungal infection often develops in nitrogen-deficient soil. Nitrogen levels are often lower in the spring, when grass uses it to grow. The air must also be humid, and temperatures must be between 68 and 75 degrees for the fungus to thrive. Fungal spores are transferred to other areas of the yard when you mow the lawn and turn on the sprinkler system.

How to Treat Red Thread Disease

Changing the conditions that cause red thread to develop is the first step to take in your lawn treatment plan. A lawn care specialist can work nitrogen-rich fertilizer into the soil to make it less susceptible to contamination. They can also determine the best fertilization schedule based on the grass you have, its growing season, and your region’s climate. This could include applying fresh fertilizer in the fall in preparation for spring growth. They will also reapply it throughout the year to ensure grass doesn’t use up all of the available nitrogen during the growing season. If these efforts prove futile, a technician might try chemical-based lawn treatment solutions.

If you believe red thread or another fungus has developed in your yard, reach out to the professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, for help. They will fertilize the soil to boost nitrogen levels, install irrigation systems to keep plants hydrated, and provide additional solutions to maintain a healthy and vibrant yard . To discuss lawn treatment options in Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties, call (513) 755-9434 , or visit them online to learn more about their services.

How to Choose a Lawn Care Company

Thu, 09 May 2019 13:22:55 GMT

A good lawn care company will have the knowledge, tools, and techniques to give you a healthy, vibrant garden. As in any industry, however, not all service providers are created equal. How can you be sure the professional you choose will give you the results you want? Here’s what you should look for when finding the proper business for your needs.

Do Your Research

Don’t just call the first lawn care business you see advertised. Ask friends, family, and colleagues for local recommendations. When you find a potentially promising company, check for testimonials; many locations have references online. Lawn care covers a lot of tasks, including aeration, fertilization, mowing, and irrigation. Make sure the company you are interested in offers the services you need and consider whether eco-friendly lawn care is important to you.

Ask a Few Questions

Ask any company you are interested in hiring if they provide a soil analysis. With this information, they can make targeted service recommendations and deliver a cost estimate. You should also inquire about a satisfaction guarantee. What happens if you aren’t happy with their work? Any reputable lawn care business will have enough confidence in their work and operate with some kind of warranty, such as a free redo of the service or money back.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provides trusted lawn care throughout the Cincinnati, OH, area. They have been serving the community for over 25 years and are known for their excellent results. Each client gets a complimentary soil test to determine what their garden needs to achieve healthy growth. Their online testimonials speak to the outstanding outcomes they deliver, as well as their reasonable rates; visit their website to take a look for yourself. They also offer a satisfaction guarantee. Call (513) 755-9434 today to schedule an appointment for lawn care or irrigation.

Why Your Lawn Needs Fertilization

Thu, 02 May 2019 13:29:45 GMT

Your lawn is your own outdoor oasis—a place where your kids can play or you can soak up some sunshine. Fertilization is a must if you want to keep your grass looking fresh and green. Here’s what you need to know about fertilization and how it helps maintain a beautiful lawn.

What Are the Advantages of Fertilization?

Fertilizer gives plants valuable nutrients they would otherwise not get enough of from the natural soil. This encourages a deep root network, more dense sprouting, and stronger growth overall. As a result, your lawn will be better protected from parasites, pests, and weeds—all of which are more likely to attack your landscape when the grass is weakened. Healthier plants also look better, giving you that lush, vibrant green carpet you want in front of your doorstep.

How Should Fertilization Be Done?

Grass type is one factor impacting fertilization needs. Cool-season plants like fescue and rye should be treated one to two times in the fall and again in the spring. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and buffalo benefit from three treatments during active growing periods—early spring, late spring, and late summer.

Your local climate and soil also make a difference. When you buy fertilizer, you will see three numbers on the bag, indicating the percentage of nutrients the mixture contains. For instance “10-10-10” has 10% each of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. How much your lawn needs of each nutrient depends on the current soil makeup.

Let Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation determine your ideal fertilization type and schedule with a soil test—free for all new customers. From their headquarters in Cincinnati, OH, these professionals serve Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties. Thanks to their comprehensive services, they can also combine your fertilization with other necessary services like aeration and grub control. Visit their website to see what their happy customers have to say. To discuss your own lawn care needs, give them a call at (513) 755-9434 .

FAQ About Lawn Aeration

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 14:11:35 GMT

If you want strong, vibrant grass growth in your front lawn, you need to aerate at least twice per year. Just like people, plants need food to grow; aeration ensures they get the valuable oxygen, nutrients, and water they need. Here’s how the procedure works and why it’s so valuable.

What You Need to Know About Aeration

Why is aeration necessary?

From heavy rains to people walking on the lawn, these elements compact the soil in your yard over time. When the dirt is too dense, moisture, fertilizer, and air can’t penetrate the surface to reach the underlying roots. This makes it impossible for a strong, dense root network to form.

How does aeration work?

Aeration consists of penetrating the soil with pointed spikes to create small holes, either manually or using a mower-like machine. Small cores of dirt 1 to 2 inches in length—called plugs—are pulled out. These are left on the surface, where they eventually break down over time.

When should you aerate?

This depends on your local climate, soil status, and grass type. In general, aeration is recommended at least twice annually and should always be done on an actively growing lawn. You can combine the procedure with your spring and fall fertilization methods, encouraging roots to get the most out of their seasonal feeding.

What happens if you don’t aerate?

If you don’t aerate the yard, grass roots can’t grow as robustly and attract pests that recognize weakened plants as an easy target. Lack of aeration also leads to insufficient soil drainage, resulting in excessive moisture that can breed harmful fungi. A nonaerated lawn is also prone to thatch; this surface layer of decomposing plant material prevents sunlight from reaching the grass below, limiting its growth.

If you’re in the Cincinnati, OH, area, leave your aeration needs in the capable hands of Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . This locally owned and operated lawn care company is dedicated to helping area residents get the gorgeous gardens they desire. They are known for their fair and friendly customer service and are so confident in their results that they even offer a satisfaction guarantee . Call (513) 755-9434 or visit them online to schedule aeration today.

How to Care for Your Lawn When Living With Allergies

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 14:14:53 GMT

In the spring, the weather warms up, and your garden enters an active growing phase. This is the perfect time to take care of lawn care tasks, from fertilization to aeration. If you have allergies, however, the threat of red eyes and a runny nose might hold you back. Find out how you can conquer these symptoms and enjoy your time outdoors.

Before Lawn Care

If you require medication for allergies, start taking them before spring arrives. This gives your body time to adjust to the active ingredient. Talk to your doctor about when you should start your treatment; some medicines work more quickly, while others, like sublingual tablets, are best taken at least 12 weeks before exposure.

Check the local weather provider for daily pollen counts. Avoid yardwork on days when the numbers are especially high. Know your triggers and avoid them. Ragweed is more dominant on dry, windy days, for example, while mold is prevalent right after the rain.

During Lawn Care

Cover up while working outside. Wear goggles to keep debris out of your eyes and a breathing mask to prevent particles from entering the mouth and nose. You should also wear a hat to keep pollen from clinging to your hair; otherwise, wash your hair afterward.

Whatever clothes you were wearing while in the yard, plan to wash them immediately. You don’t want to carry triggers indoors, as well. Finally, take a shower after you’re done to get rid of any clinging particles, and then enjoy the view of your lush lawn.

If the great outdoors proves to be too much for your allergies—even with these tips— Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation can help. They serve Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding counties with top-quality lawn care services. Their professional and friendly team offers everything from fertilization to irrigation and aeration. Get a full overview of their services online . To request a free lawn care analysis as a first-time customer, call (513) 755-9434 .

A Guide to Lawn Care for New Homeowners

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 14:17:16 GMT

Moving into a new house is sure to keep you busy. Along with cleaning, arranging furniture, and hanging pictures, there’s plenty to do to make your new space feel like home. While creating a cozy nest inside, don’t forget the outside parts of your property. Here are a few lawn care tips to help you create a lush carpet of grass in front of your doorstep.

Preparing & Planting After Moving In

When getting seeds, choose types that are suited to your region’s weather and type of soil. In the North, cold-weather grasses like Kentucky bluegrass are ideal. In the warmer, southern states, opt for Bermudagrass or Zoysia.

To ensure strong, dense growth, fertilize your lawn to give it the food it needs. Combine fertilization with aeration, which creates tiny holes in the dirt, allowing nutrients, air, and water to penetrate the roots below the surface.

For an orderly lawn, install edging to keep grass from growing where it shouldn’t. You can use wood, brick, concrete, or even plastic, and mulch or stones can cover the edges and create a more attractive appearance.

Maintaining Your Lawn Care for the Future

You can’t just plant some seeds once after moving into your new home and expect a green oasis. Regular weeding is an essential maintenance task. Fertilizing and aerating is also usually recommended at least twice per year.

How you cut the grass also impacts the growth. Set your mower, so it doesn’t trim more than one-third of the blade. If the grass is too long, sunlight will have trouble reaching smaller blades, but if it’s too short, it will get scorched and turn brown.

Creating a gorgeous garden takes time—time that you might not always have. Let Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, do the job for you. Get off to a good start with a professional soil analysis, which they offer for free to all new customers. With this information, they can provide the right lawn care measures to create an ideal growing climate. For ongoing maintenance, they offer fertilization, irrigation, and aeration. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

The Dangers of Overwatering Your Lawn

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:21:10 GMT

Your lawn needs water to grow, but too much moisture will do more harm than good, increasing the risk of pests and diseases. When grass blades are always wet, for instance, they become more susceptible to harmful fungal growth. Here’s what you should know about proper lawn care and how to water appropriately.

What Are the Signs of Overwatering?

Check your lawn for thatch—a dense layer of partially decomposed plant material at the soil’s surface. Overwatering flushes away the microorganisms that normally break this down. Thatch impedes healthy growth by blocking sunlight and keeping nutrients from reaching the plants’ roots.

Certain weeds, such as smooth crabgrass and yellow nutsedge, are also a sign of excessive watering, and pests like white grubs and June beetles will be attracted to an overly wet lawn. Finally, if the ground feels spongy under your feet, you can be sure you’ve watered too much.

How Much Should You Water?

The right amount of water depends on the type of grass you have. Warm-season options like Bermudagrass need about a half-inch of water every one to three weeks, while cool-season varieties like Kentucky bluegrass need to be tended to every four to five days.

Your local climate and rainfall also play a role, as does the health of the soil your grass is growing in. For instance, if you haven’t aerated recently and the dirt is extremely compact, water will have a difficult time even penetrating the surface. Hire a lawn care professional to aerate your yard and advise on how frequently you should water.

Located in Cincinnati, OH, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation has been serving Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties with top-quality lawn care services for over two decades. They are known for their quick and thorough work, backed by an in-depth knowledge of the area’s climate and foliage. Whether you need irrigation installation or aeration and fertilization, they have you covered. Schedule a lawn care treatment today by calling (513) 755-9434 or using their online form.

Why Does Your Lawn Need Aeration?

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:23:10 GMT

Heavy rain and foot traffic are elements that compact the soil of your lawn over time, starving the grass and plant roots below. This results in dead, patchy, and thinning growth. Aeration involves perforating the dirt to create small holes, allowing plants and grass to get the nutrients they need. Here’s what you should know about aeration and how it can help keep your lawn lush.

What Are the Benefits of Aeration?

Aeration has an immediate impact, allowing roots to get beneficial water, nutrients, and oxygen. If you have problems with runoff or puddles building up after heavy rain, it’s also a quick fix for this. By creating space in the soil, aeration also gives the roots room to grow more densely. This encourages a strong, dense rhizome system and makes grass more tolerant of heat and drought.

Lawns that are regularly aerated also become less susceptible to diseases and thatch buildup; thatch is a layer of dead and living stems and roots that build up over the soil, causing the lawn to dry out. Aeration breaks up the thatch over the soil, decreasing the risk of lawn disease and weeds.

When Should You Aerate?

Aeration should be done at least twice per year. In the spring, couple the procedure with fertilization to promote strong growth. In the fall, the small chunks of dirt that aeration create make an excellent basis for overseeding. A professional can advise on how frequently you should aerate and what other procedures to combine it with. For instance, applying lime afterward helps improve the soil pH levels, so roots can better absorb nutrients. Every lawn is different, so let a specialist determine what yours needs.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, provides a soil test for every new customer. These professionals offer a comprehensive array of lawn care, from core aeration to fertilization and irrigation. With over 25 years of experience in the region, they have the local knowledge you need to create a healthy, beautiful yard. Get a full overview of their services online , or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment.

Why Your Garden Needs Deep Root Fertilization

Sat, 19 Jan 2019 14:32:28 GMT

Plants need the right food to grow strong and maintain their wellbeing from one season to the next. Deep root feeding is a unique style of fertilization designed to incorporate valuable nutrients and live microorganisms into the soil so they can be easily absorbed by shrubs and trees. Find out why this technique is necessary and how you can use it to create a more beautiful garden.

Why Is Deep Root Feeding Necessary?

Smaller plants, flowers, and grasses have relatively shallow roots that don’t grow far below the earth’s surface, while shrubs and trees can penetrate more deeply where it’s harder to obtain nutrients from surface fertilizers. When plants are malnourished, growth is inhibited, and they don’t flower as profusely. Fertilization encourages healthy development and protects against pests. Deep root feeding can save you money by mitigating the need to replace dead greenery.

How Is the Fertilization Process Done?

The first step in effective deep root feeding is to develop a liquid formula tailored to your soil’s specific needs. For example, if the earth is too acidic, you should add more alkaline properties. To provide nutrients, this solution is injected into the soil surrounding larger plants. A lawn care professional can determine what kind of mixture your trees and shrubs need based on a soil test. With an annual application, they’ll help you create a beautiful garden that stands the test of time.

Make sure your trees and shrubs have the food they need to grow with regular fertilization services from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Located in Cincinnati, OH, they serve the counties of Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont. With over 25 years of experience in lawn care and irrigation, their knowledgeable team will help you nurture a healthy, lush garden. To schedule services, send a message online or call (513) 755-9434 .

How to Winterize Your Irrigation System

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 14:34:53 GMT

A well-functioning irrigation system controls the amount of moisture your garden gets, ensuring it’s sufficiently watered without flooding. Safeguard your irrigation system in the winter to keep it from freezing when the temperatures drop. Here’s what you need to do to protect it, so it’s still working next spring.

How Do You Shut Down the Irrigation System for the Winter?

First, turn off the water supply that feeds your irrigation system using the main shut-off valve. Wrap the valve in foam insulation tape and a plastic bag to protect it against snow, ice, and freezing winds. You should also insulate any above-ground piping, valves, and backflow preventers using insulation tape.

In the case of an automatic system, shut off any timers. If you have a controller that automatically activates a pump, it’s best to remove the wires connected to the master valve. This prevents accidental activation.

Drain the pipes next. If you leave water sitting in them, the pipes could expand when it freezes, causing damage. You can use a manual or automatic drain valve or the air blowout method. If you aren’t comfortable with these techniques, a local irrigation specialist can do the job for you safely.

Why Should You Be Cautious When Restarting in the Spring?

Avoid turning your system back on until you are confident freezing temperatures are behind you. When restarting, turn the water on slowly or you risk causing a water hammer. This can burst fittings or pop off sprinkler heads.

For extra caution, remove the sprinkler head at the end of each line before turning the system on. This way, if anything got into the lines during the winter, it can be flushed out. If you notice problems, call an irrigation expert to take a look. Using a faulty system can result in costly damage.

When residents of Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding area need a lawn care expert, they look to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . From aeration and irrigation to grub control, these professionals provide a huge array of services. Known for their reliable local knowledge, they can produce beautiful lawns and gardens. You can reach them directly at (513) 755-9434 to speak with a friendly representative, or visit them online to learn more about their services.

Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Break Out the Weed Killer

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 14:39:13 GMT

With the colder months looming, you might assume you can safely lay off the lawn care while your garden prepares to hibernate all winter. However, now is the perfect time to get out the weed killer . Find out why it’s best to destroy these pesky plants during the fall.

Why Does Weed Killer Work Best in the Fall?

Perennial weeds—those that live for more than two years—are especially tough thanks to their nutrient-packed roots. To survive the winter, they move the sugars that provide their energy from their leaves and stems above ground into their roots below ground.

If you apply weed killer during the fall when this process is ongoing, the herbicide is also carried to the roots, helping destroy the plants. Whatever is still surviving will pop up in the spring—when you can finish the job by hand. Take a small trowel or rake to extract the remaining bits of root and prevent regrowth.

Which Weed Killer Should You Use?

The type of weed killer you need depends on what’s growing in your garden. Grassy weeds require different treatment than broadleaf plants, for instance. A professional with knowledge of the area’s geography and vegetation can advise on what will get you the best results.

You don’t want an “all-inclusive” weed killer, which can damage everything in your garden. Selective, tailored treatments may take more time and effort, but they will reap larger rewards in the long run, nixing unwanted growth while allowing you to keep the rest of your green oasis intact.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provides comprehensive lawn care services, including fertilization, aeration, and irrigation throughout Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas. With over 25 years in the business, they have extensive knowledge of the local climate and growth. They have a reputation for top-quality customer service and even provide a satisfaction guarantee. Find out more about their services online . To schedule an appointment for their weed killer services, call (513) 755-9434 .

How Can Lawn Aeration Benefit Your Property?

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 14:41:53 GMT

After a long summer of running and playing outdoors, your lawn needs room to breathe. To promote a healthy lawn all year-round, homeowners should always incorporate aeration to their fall lawn care routine. Aeration involves puncturing small holes into the soil, which allows vital nutrients, air, and water to reach the grass roots. The following reasons will explain why you should never skip this essential step.

What Are the Benefits of Lawn Aeration?

1. Reduces Soil Compaction

Fall-time aeration helps promote lush, healthy grass. After periods of heavy foot traffic, the soil naturally becomes compacted, which can block the blades from “breathing” and consuming vital nutrients in the season ahead. By gently loosening up the soil, your grass can continue to thrive.

2. Curbs Thatch Accumulation

Thatch, which consists of dead grass, leaves, and other debris, naturally accumulates on the lawn’s surface over time. Not only does thatch look unattractive, but it can also prevent the lawn’s roots from accessing rainwater, vitamins, and minerals. Through core aeration, which is a process involving a small machine called a lawn aerator that mechanically removes the thatch, your lawn can continue to consume essential nutrients as usual. Fertilizing after aeration will further help ensure the lawn is ready for the dormant period ahead.

3. Reduces Water Runoff

If your yard has issues with unwanted water accumulation, aeration may help resolve the issue. Puncturing holes in the soil helps ensure the grass absorbs more of the water it needs, keeping it from flooding other areas of your landscape.

Help maintain a thriving, verdant landscape all year-round when you contact Hamilton County, OH’s top lawn care resource. With over 25 years serving the Cincinnati area, you can count on the experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation for the fall-time aeration and irrigation services you need. To learn more about their core aeration services, visit the local business online or call today at (513) 755-9434 .

What to Know About Using Weed Killer in Your Flower Garden

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 14:47:08 GMT

If you’re tired of yanking weeds out of your flowerbeds, you may want to take additional measures to combat them. When used correctly, weed killer works very effectively to take down unwanted plants. Unfortunately, without proper precautions, the agent may also sometimes harm flowers and landscape plants in the process. To protect your flowerbeds while staving off weeds, keep these top three tips in mind.

3 Tips for Killing Weeds in Your Garden

1. Use a Gel-Based Weed Killer

Liquid-based weed killers tend to be more challenging to control than gel-based varieties; they also may drip off weed leaves and impact surrounding plants or soil. Gel weed killers, on the other hand, offer optimal precision and cling tightly to the weeds, lowering the risk of dripping.

2. Mulch

Mulching the flowerbed after spraying offers an additional layer of protection against weeds, as it creates a physical barrier that they often cannot penetrate. It can also help protect your flowers by locking nutrients deeper into the soil. A layer of mulch that includes materials like wood chips, twigs, leaves, and cocoa shells will help suppress new weed growth while keeping your flowers nourished.

3. Apply in Optimal Conditions

Avoid applying weed killer when it’s windy or may rain, as the weather could transport the solutions to undesirable areas. For best results, apply weed killer on a clear, dry day. After application, leave the weeds for at least seven days so that the agent can completely permeate the roots. Spring and summer are the ideal times of year to apply weed killer since weeds tend to grow during these seasons; however, the agent will still work year-round.

For the high-quality garden and lawn services you need, consult Cincinnati, Ohio’s trusted business. The experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provide weed killer, fertilization, and aeration services that will help you maintain a lush, healthy landscape. For more information about services, visit the website or call a friendly professional today at (513) 755-9434 .

The Do's & Don'ts of Watering Your Garde

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 14:50:11 GMT

If you want a lush lawn and garden, you can’t depend on rainfall alone to nourish it. Regular watering ensures your plants are getting the moisture they need to sustain strong growth. Find out how to take care of this lawn care task—the right way.

Do:

Water at the correct time.

Early morning is the best time to water your lawn. The coolest period of the day, when moisture is best absorbed, occurs from 4:00 to 8:00 a.m. If you water in the middle of the day when the sun is beating down, you will lose water to evaporation. Watering at night can leave your grass damp for too long, resulting in fungi or other lawn diseases.

Track how much water your lawn gets.

Over-watering can drown your plants and grass, and wash away valuable fertilizer nutrients they depend on to stay healthy. Your lawn should be fine with one inch of water per week. Don’t reach for the hose if the weather forecast predicts precipitation. Leave a can out when it rains so you can determine how much moisture your garden has already gotten.

Don’t:

Water haphazardly.

Don’t just aim your sprinkler wherever when watering. Make sure you are getting even coverage—water by hand if your sprinkler system can’t reach all parts of the yard. Opt for deep watering so that roots further in the earth get the moisture they need as well.

Neglect other lawn care tasks.

Well-nourished roots are best able to absorb the water you give them and survuve dry spells. Proper fertilization, aeration, and irrigation encourage healthy root growth. Mowing is also important—grass should be shorn to about two-and-a-half to three inches. This ensures there is still shade covering the roots and soil, reducing water loss due to evaporation.

For help with your lawn care in the Cincinnati, OH, area, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Priding themselves on their local roots, these professionals have more than 25 years of experience creating beautiful gardens in the area. Learn more about their history of serving the community online . To discuss your lawn care needs with their team, call (513) 755-9434 .

A Guide to Lawn Care Tools for Beginners

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 14:52:48 GMT

Gardening can be a relaxing and rewarding pastime, allowing you to spend time outdoors while creating your very own green oasis. If you’re just getting into the hobby, you may not be sure what lawn care tools you need. Here are the items every starting gardener should have in their kit.

Lawn Care Tools You Should Have

Tools for Planting & Pruning

A hand shovel is ideal for first-time gardeners, as it allows you to have more precise control over a specific plot of earth than a long-handled shovel. You can use it for everything from planting flowers to digging up vegetables. Once your garden is planted, you’ll want to keep it looking fresh with regular “haircuts.” A hand pruner is perfect for chopping branches and stems.

Utensils for Soil Care

Healthy soil is essential for the success of any gardening endeavor. A hand rake is perfect for manipulating the soil—smoothing it, removing pesky weeds, and serving as a mini-tiller. You can also use it to roughly aerate the soil, poking holes to allow oxygen and nutrients to reach plant roots. However, you will want to hire a professional with a core aerator to take care of larger surface areas.

Protective Gear for Yourself

Last but not least, make sure you have the appropriate gear to take care of yourself—not just your plants. This includes gardening gloves, goggles to keep pollen and dirt out of your eyes, and appropriate shoes. Always wear closed-toed shoes when gardening. Even a small hand rake can cause harm if it falls on your toe.

With these tools, you can take care of a lot of regular maintenance on your own—but when it comes to serious seasonal procedures, like fertilization and core aeration, you want a professional. For lawn care services in the greater Cincinnati, OH, area, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Known for their top-quality customer care, they have local expertise you can trust. They even offer a satisfaction guarantee—learn how it works on their website . To schedule an appointment to address your lawn care needs, call them directly at (513) 755-9434 .

What Is Lawn Aeration?

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 14:55:56 GMT

If you aren’t aerating your lawn, your garden will not achieve its maximum potential. Aeration ensures that the nutrients and oxygen grass needs reach its roots. If you want a beautiful green oasis outside of your front door, don’t skip this step.

Why Lawn Aeration Is Important

Plants need a balanced diet of the right nutrients, plus adequate oxygen and hydration, to survive. If the soil is packed too tightly, it’s more difficult for fertilizers, water, and air to penetrate the soil. Aeration relieves soil compaction by puncturing the earth with small holes. This allows the “food” that grass needs to circulate and get below the surface, promoting deeper and stronger root growth.

Aeration is best done in spring for warm-season grasses and fall for cool-season grasses, preparing them for their prime growing seasons. Areas that are heavily used may benefit from more frequent treatment.

How to Properly Aerate Your Lawn

The first step is to address thatch—old leaves and dead plants on the lawn’s surface. This debris prevents water and nutrients from accessing the soil, and can also keep much-needed sunlight from reaching grass blades. Use a rake to remove it. Next, use an aerator to break up compacted soil—water the day before to ease the process. A spike aerator will simply poke holes, while a plug aerator will pull up “cores” or “plugs” of compact dirt—the latter is more effective. Space plugs about three inches apart for adequate coverage.

You can usually rent aerators from local gardening centers if you don’t own one. Alternatively, you can hire an expert to get the job done. Lawn care professionals can also address other needs, such as mowing, thatch removal, pest problems, and fertilization.

Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provides comprehensive lawn care services to residents of Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas. With 25 years of experience, they know what it takes to make Ohio’s gardens grow. From nixing local pests and weeds to applying geographically appropriate fertilizer mixes, they can handle all of your lawn care needs. You can learn more about aeration on their website . To schedule a service, call them directly at (513) 755-9434 .

Lawn Care Professionals Bust Common Watering Myths

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 15:01:03 GMT

You water your lawn regularly but still see wilting leaves and brown spots—what gives? When it comes to maintaining a lush garden, the how, when, and where all make the difference. Here, the lawn care professionals of Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, bust some common falsehoods about watering. Don’t buy into these myths if you want a great-looking lawn.

3 Common Myths About Watering Your Lawn

1. One Inch of Water Per Week

Different plants and grasses have different requirements depending on their type and age. Other factors to consider include the quality of the soil, atmospheric humidity and time of year.

While young seedlings may need daily watering in hot, sunny weather, for instance, older plants with more extensive root systems might be able to survive with watering once per week. Apply water only until it is slowly absorbed by the soil—not to the extent that it’s running off.

2. Overhead Watering Is Harmful

Another old wives’ tale when it comes to watering your garden is the belief that water droplets sitting on leaves when it’s sunny out causes them to scorch. While it is best to water in the evenings when the sun is lower, this is because less moisture is lost to evaporation this way.

It’s better to apply water directly to the soil around plants than to use a sprinkler system, as this prevents water loss due to evaporation. That said, occasional overhead watering is useful. It washes away dirt that coats leaves and impedes photosynthesis.

3. Wilting Means Plants Are Thirsty

While shriveled leaves can mean plants aren’t getting enough moisture, this red flag highlights a problem with a plant’s roots. This could be disease, physical damage, or a lack of oxygen.

Don’t assume your greenery is looking down because of insufficient watering. Check the soil moisture manually and water as needed. If the plant’s health doesn’t improve, call a lawn care professional. They can test your soil and provide aeration or fertilization services to ensure roots get the necessary nutrients.

Still confused as to how much water your lawn needs? Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation can help. This locally owned company has more than 25 years of experience in lawn care and irrigation. Every garden is different, and their team will make a personalized assessment of your lawn to see what it needs. To discuss your needs, contact them online or call (513) 755-9434 .

Why You Should Invest in Lawn Treatment This Summer

Sat, 07 Jul 2018 15:22:46 GMT

Whether you’re hosting barbecues on the lawn or simply soaking up the sun solo, summer is the perfect time to enjoy your garden. While you should make the most of your green space while the sun is shining, it’s also important to take the time to care for your oasis. Below, learn why summer is the perfect season to invest in lawn treatment .

Benefits of Summer Lawn Treatment

Keep Damaging Weeds & Grubs at Bay

The warm weather invites all kinds of unwanted guests to make themselves at home in your garden. Lawn treatment is necessary to control weeds, which compete with flowers, grasses, and other plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight. It’s also important to manage grubs, which feed on the roots of plants and turf grass, causing irreversible damage.

Maintain a Well-Fed Garden

Apply regular feed to your lawn to keep it looking fresh and healthy all summer long. This is especially important in hot, dry weather. With the right nutrition, your plants will withstand the scorching months. Poor nutrition during this season can also carry over into other months.

Lay the Groundwork for New Growth

While summer isn’t the right time to sow new seeds because the soil is too dry, start preparing the groundwork during this time. Mark any areas you want to sow new grass with string. As summer comes to a close, these spots can be dug over, breaking up clods of soil and raking over the ground. Come autumn, the space will be ready for sowing.

Prefer to enjoy your summer and let someone else handle the seasonal lawn treatment duties? Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation has you covered. Located in Cincinnati, OH, they serve Butler, Warren, Clermont, and Hamilton Counties. Their skilled technicians provide an array of cutting-edge services, from irrigation system installation to custom-made lawn treatments. Using a soil test, they can assess your garden’s health and create a precise plan to address its needs. Learn more about the lawn care treatments they offer online . For an appointment, call (513) 755-9434 .

Why You Should Use a Lawn Care Service to Beautify Your Lawn

Thu, 03 May 2018 15:25:50 GMT

Mowing the grass can be a relaxing activity for many people. While keeping up with certain maintenance yourself is essential, some lawn care requires the work of an expert. After over 25 years of providing lawn services to the Cincinnati, OH, area, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation knows that every lawn needs different care, from soil aeration to weed and pest control. Here are three good reasons why you should look to a professional service for your lawn’s specific needs.

How You Can Benefit From Professional Lawn Care

1. Save Time & Money

DIY lawn care may seem economical, but hiring a professional is a worthwhile investment. Most services offer special discounts on products to maintain better price offerings than hardware stores. Don’t forget the time you’ll save by entrusting your lawn to an expert; allowing a professional to do the work frees up your schedule for other endeavors.

2. Take Advantage of Their Expertise

Many issues can result in a struggling lawn, from lack of aeration to grub infestations. Instead of wasting time and money on trial-and-error techniques, trust an expert to diagnose the problem and treat it. Not only do they have experience and knowledge on their side, but they will also have the tools to fix the problem immediately.

3. Never Worry About Liability

Lawn care is highly physical and requires the use of potentially dangerous equipment and pesticides. When you hire a lawn treatment service, you won’t have to worry about costly injuries to yourself or others. Lawn service providers should have liability insurance that prevents responsibility for on-site injuries or incorrect chemical disposal from falling on you.

When it comes to maintaining your lawn, you know to trust only the best. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation has been Cincinnati’s favorite name in lawn care for over two decades because of their sterling reputation for customer service and homegrown attitude. To schedule an appointment with the professionals today, call (513) 755-9434 or visit their website for further service details.

A Guide to Grub Control for Your Garden

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 15:28:19 GMT

Many insects benefit your garden. Bees are excellent pollinators, while adult ladybugs eat damaging aphids and mites, and nocturnal ground beetles keep slug and snail populations in check. Grubs, however, are one creepy-crawly you don’t want. These pests feed on the roots of plants and turf grass, and they also attract skunks, raccoons, and rodents that will dig into the soil. Therefore, good grub control is a must for maintaining any garden. The best way to prevent grubs from damaging your lawn is to keep them out in the first place.

Grub Control for Your Garden

Incorporate Insects That Battle Grubs

Introducing and nurturing natural predators of grubs into your garden is a smart step. Tiphiid wasps and nematode worms are your best bet. You can attract the wasps by planting fragrant herbs and flowers, like yarrow and spearmint. Nematodes are small worms that can be purchased from many garden stores. Simply mix the worms with water and apply them to the soil.

Use a Natural Insecticide

If grubs have already infiltrated, the bacterial insecticide Bacillus thuringiensis serotype kurstaki provides one safe solution. This substance is based on a bacteria that naturally occurs in soil and interferes with grubs’ ability to feed. You can apply it as a spray on a plant’s leaves or by drenching its roots.

Aerate Your Lawn

Using aerators shoes can also help, as the spikes on the bottom pierce grubs under the surface. Water your lawn beforehand in order to drive the grubs to the top where they are more easily reached.

Get Your Hands Dirty:

The last-ditch solution is to pull grubs manually. Check for them regularly in the soil when weeding or planting. Whenever you spy a grub, get your gardening gloves on and remove it.

Facing a grub control conundrum? Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation can help. Headquartered in Cincinnati, OH, this lawn care and irrigation company serves Butler, Hamilton, Warren, and Clermont Counties. They have built up a reputation for expert advice and top-quality service—as their online testimonials show. To discuss your needs, give them a call directly at (513) 755-9434 .

Sprinkler System Components You Should Know

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 15:32:13 GMT

A sprinkler system can save you time and money, sparing you the duty of watering your garden by hand and distributing water in a more efficient manner. Correctly installing a professional system requires some expert insight, however. Below are the basic parts of sprinkler systems that you should be familiar with.

Essential Sprinkler System Parts

1. Shutoff Valve

When installing a sprinkler system, you will have it connected to a main water supply on your property. If there is any kind of issue, such as a danger of flooding, you can cut off the sprinkler completely at the shutoff valve.

2. Main Lines

As mentioned above, your sprinkler system will be connected to a main water line on your property. This will be hooked up to “zone lines,” which run through various parts of your property. Hang on to a plan of how the main and zone lines connect, in case of future reconstruction.

3. Valve

A wire leads from the main line to each valve, which opens and closes the individual lines delivering water directly to the sprinkler head. Each valve controls an independent irrigation zone.

4. Backflow Stop

Your main water line is likely connected to a municipal water source. In this case, a backflow stop can be useful in case the municipal water supply is contaminated. Activate the stopper, and you can prevent this dirty water from reaching your lawn.

5. Sprinkler Head

This is the part of a sprinkler system that you are probably most familiar with. You can get various sprinkler heads to create different flows of water—from a single stream to a rainbow-like multi-stream to cover more area.

Not sure how to set up the ideal sprinkler system for your lawn? Trust the professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation to help. Located in Milford, OH, they serve Butler, Hamilton, Warren, and Clermont counties. From irrigation to fertilization, their comprehensive services will have your gardens looking great. Find out more about their work online . For an appointment, call (513) 755-9434 .

4 Common Misconceptions About Installing Sprinklers

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 15:44:53 GMT

Watering and irrigation is a vital part of lawn care , and a sprinkler system is an excellent way to keep your grass and plants healthy. While it’s a common watering solution, there are many misconceptions floating around among homeowners about sprinkler installation.To learn a few, read below.

4 Common Sprinkler Misconceptions

1. Duration of Installation

Some people assume their lawn will be dug up and in disarray for weeks on end while a sprinkler system is installed, but this simply isn’t true. It’s unlikely that installation will take more than five days, and it can be done in one day in some cases. The average time for installation is one to two days, but the size of your lawn is a factor in how long it will take the lawn care service.

2. Damage to Lawn

Homeowners sometimes worry that the installation of the sprinkler system will damage their lawn, but this is a myth. The system they use utilizes vibration to install the pipe, and their machine is designed to precisely cut the sod rather than rip, tear, or otherwise damage it.

3. Timing of Spray

Sprinklers are designed so that there are zones that water different areas of the yard at different times rather than running all at once. The zones can be easily controlled, and if you don’t want a certain part of your yard watered at a certain time, you can simply schedule it to be sprayed later or earlier.

4. Expense

Some may believe a new system will cost tens of thousands of dollars, but this isn’t the case. For an average-sized lot, it can cost between $2,000 to a bit more than $3,000. If this still seems high, think of all the time you’ll save in the long run and the health of the plants in your yard. Lawn care is definitely a worthwhile investment.

If you’re looking for an experienced, knowledgeable lawn care company to install a sprinkler system in your yard, Nature Plus & Lawn Irrigation has you covered. Based out of Cincinnati, OH, they provide a variety of services such as irrigation, aeration, fertilization, and grub control. To learn more, visit their website or give them a call at (513) 755-9434 .

When Should I Start Spring Lawn Care?

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 15:47:27 GMT

Although you may not have to worry much about lawn care during the winter months, for the best results in the spring and summer, it’s important to know when to begin your maintenance routine. That’s why you should consider coordinating with professionals. They’ll help you establish the ideal schedule for your needs. To learn more about when to begin your lawn treatments, keep reading.

When Is the Right Time to Start Spring Lawn Care?

Starting Early

With spring lawn maintenance, some degree of guesswork is involved. You want to begin working on the yard as soon the snowy season is over. Research the anticipated weather in your area. If the forecast doesn’t call for snow for the foreseeable future, give your yard a thorough raking. While there may not be any leaves on the lawn, after the winter thaw, it’s likely there is a buildup of thatch, which can block the growth of new grass. Winter thaws also tend to leave some patches stuck together, which is also known to prevent new grass from growing.

Monitor It

After you’ve finished raking your lawn, look for any bare patches. Seed and fertilize these areas. Over the course of the next few weeks, as the new grass begins to grow, monitor the condition of the lawn. If the bare patches still won’t fill in, you may need to add more seeds. By getting a head start on this early in the season, you will ensure you have a lush, beautiful yard by the time summer arrives.

Are you looking for a lawn care company to help you with spring yard work in the Cincinnati, OH, area? If so, get in touch with Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . The team offers scheduled maintenance, one-time treatments, and a wide range of other services. Contact them online to learn more, or call (513) 755-9434 .

3 Must-Have Lawn Care Tools for the Spring

Sat, 10 Feb 2018 15:36:16 GMT

One of the most important elements to proper lawn care and irrigation is having the right tools at your disposal. Using the wrong tool for a task can not only require unnecessary time and effort, but it can also potentially lead to personal injury or damage to your vegetation and landscaping. Below is a run-down of the top tools to invest in for proper lawn care on your property.

3 Top Tools for Top-Notch Lawn Care

1. Lawnmower

A lawnmower is the number one tool you’ll need to keep your lawn healthy and well-maintained. There is a wide variety of models on the market to choose from. Depending on your lawn care needs, you can invest in a mower with cylinder or rotary blades, or even self-collecting grass clipping receptacles to make clean up a breeze. Additionally, depending on the amount of land you own, riding mowers can help save you time and energy.

2. Edging Shears

Edging shears are designed to keep your grass border looking clean and well-groomed. A trimmed border improves your home’s curb appeal. It also keeps your soil in place and away from sidewalks and driveways.

3. String Trimmer

The essential function of a string trimmer is to cut grass in tight areas where a mower is unable to reach. This tool can be used around fences, walls, and patios, where you want to avoid potential damage to your outdoor furniture. Unlike a mower, a trimmer uses nylon string rotating at high speeds to trim tall blades of grass.

Looking for a reliable lawn care and irrigation system company in your area? Serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding area, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provides custom lawn care solutions for clients, including irrigation installation, mosquito control, core aeration, and fertilization. With the belief that everyone deserves a healthy, lush lawn, the experienced team will help you achieve the yard of your dreams. Give them a call today at (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment. You can also visit their website to learn more about the various lawn services they provide.

Year-Round Lawn Care Tips for Every Season

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 15:39:45 GMT

If you want your garden to flourish, you have to show it tender loving care all year round. That doesn’t mean the work has to get monotonous, however. Different lawn care tasks should be undertaken at various points of the year, allowing you to enjoy your garden in a unique manner each season. Start this year off right with these lawn care suggestions, which will take you from spring to winter.

Here are seasonal steps for beautiful blooms and lush lawns:

pring: As the weather warms up, it’s time to start feeding your lawn. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to encourage growth and aerate to ensure roots soak up nutrients. If you are planning to sow seeds or lay turf, now is the time to do so—the risk of frost is low, and the soil will be easy to work with.
Summer: As spring transitions to summer and your lawn starts growing, make sure to weed and mow once per week. Sunny days will demand regular watering, manually or with the help of an irrigation system. If the weather is dry, you will want to mow the lawn less. Avoid aerating or scarifying during droughts, as this can damage an already stressed lawn.

Fall: If you have trees on your property, your main task in fall is raking leaves. Shred them for your compost pile if you have one—they make for great soil conditioner, especially for plants that like shade. Before the cold sets in, give your lawn another round of aeration and fertilization. Choose a mix that is high in potassium, which strengthens grass for winter.
Winter: Your garden might look like it’s sleeping but there is plenty of action underneath the soil in winter, from roots growing to seeds germinating. Now, lawn care is all about protection. Avoid walking on the grass when there is frost on the ground and don’t leave items—like sleds—lying around. This can cause the grass underneath to suffer, leading to brown patches when the snow melts.

Want to take your garden to the next level this year? Enlist the help of the lawn care professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Located in Cincinnati, OH, they serve Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties. Their comprehensive lawn care and irrigation services have earned them a stellar reputation—you can get a look at the rave reviews online . To discuss your needs, call (513) 755-9434 .

Lawn Care Experts on How Winter Weather Affects a Lawn

Wed, 24 Jan 2018 15:41:53 GMT

Winter weather in Ohio is often grim. The temperatures regularly drop below freezing, and the state receives more than its share of snow and ice. Because of that, some homeowners wonder how this weather affects their lawn. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation , the premier lawn care service in West Chester, OH, has the answer, and explains what you need to know in the sections below.

How Does Winter Weather Affect Your Lawn?

Typically, grasses lay dormant in the winter, which means they turn brown and appear dead, even though they are not. However, because freezing temperatures turn moisture to ice, it cannot reach the roots to water your lawn. This can result in areas of desiccation and damage. Moreover, frost can turn the blades of grass brittle and make them easy to break. Another hazard is snow mold, a fungus that affects grasses in early spring as they lie beneath a blanket of melting snow. It appears as a series of yellow, circular patches wherein the grass appears matted, grayish and covered with fungal growth.

How Do You Minimize Winter Lawn Damage?

If possible, level out the depth of snow across your lawn so that it melts evenly and doesn't prevent areas from receiving much-needed sunlight. Don't walk on the lawn immediately after a frost to avoid breaking or damaging brittle grass blades. In general, a healthy lawn is better able to withstand the effects of cold weather, so it helps if you keep the grass properly fertilized and irrigated with the correct lawn care products all year-round.

If you seek lawn services from an experienced lawn care professional, contact the team at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in West Chester, OH. Serving customers throughout Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont Counties, they can keep your lawn healthy through all four seasons. Visit their website to submit an online scheduling request, or call (513) 755-9434 to discuss your options.

Keep Your Property Looking Its Best With These Simple Fall Lawn Care Tips

Fri, 17 Nov 2017 15:56:58 GMT

Fall is the perfect time for lawn care . Not only does it prepare the property to endure the cold winter months, but it also allows homeowners to get a head start on spring tasks. According to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, there are a number of jobs that can be done before the temperature drops. Below, they discuss the top three tips they recommend for effective fall lawn care.

3 Lawn Care Tips for the Fall

1. Rake the Leaves

While it might seem easier to let the leaves stay in the yard and decompose on their own time, it’s not the best method for achieving a lush, green lawn. Raking the leaves into piles and hauling them off the property will give your grass a chance to breath and benefit from the warm rays of sunshine come spring.

2. Water the Lawn Regularly

There are some seasons where it seems to rain every week and others where there’s hardly any water. This is why it’s so important to monitor your lawn throughout the fall. If it doesn’t get approximately an inch of water per week, get out the sprinklers, and give it a good soaking. Otherwise, it will dry up and become an unsightly brown color.

. Sprinkle Fertilizer Evenly

Every lawn needs a little boost before the freezing temperatures set in, and fertilization has exactly what’s required. Most lawn services recommend using a product that contains the correct amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the late fall so the roots have time to soak up the nutrients and gather enough strength to endure the winter.

For all your lawn care needs, depend on the expertise of Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. They specialize in a vast assortment of lawn treatment solutions and come highly recommended for their exceptional customer service. You can reach one of their representatives directly at (513) 755-9434 , and they’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Visit their website for additional information.

Lawn Care Tips to Help Your Yard Survive a Drought

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 15:59:04 GMT

When the dry season hits, it’s important to invest in the appropriate lawn care to ensure your garden is getting enough moisture. In the interests of water conservation, however, many jurisdictions place legal restrictions regarding how much and when you are permitted to water in times of drought. How can you keep your plants satisfied in the face of limited resources?

Here’s how to get your garden through tough times:

Time Your Watering: Watering your lawn in the middle of the day when the sun is beating down and quickly drying up moisture won’t get you far. Instead, water in the evenings. Also, don’t soak your garden indiscriminately—check the soil first. You can do this by sticking a screwdriver in it; if it’s easy to push into the earth, there’s no need to water, but if you have trouble getting it down, your plants are thirsty.

Boost Your Soil: There are ways you can enhance your soil so it better retains moisture. Add organic matter to sand- or clay-based soils. You can even create your own compost using natural kitchen scraps from fruits and vegetables. Don’t add meat or dairy to your compost, as this can attract unwelcome animals.
Aerate, Mulch & Mow: In addition to composting, mulching can also help prevent moisture from escaping the soil. First, make sure you are aerating in the spring and fall to open up the soil and ensure roots are absorbing nutrients. Then, add a layer of wood chips or bark three to four inches deep to your garden beds and around the base of any trees. Finally, when it comes to mowing your lawn, cut regularly but never shorter than one-third of the grass height—this is the optimal length to retain moisture.

If you need help with your lawn care and irrigation, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, will help. These professionals serve Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties. From fertilization to weed control, they provide all the lawn services you need to make your yard look great. Find out more about their services online . To discuss your needs with a member of their team, call (513) 755-9434 .

3 Reasons Lawn Aeration is so Important

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 16:03:07 GMT

In order to keep your lawn healthy and looking great, it needs care and maintenance all year round, such as fertilization and aeration . Knowing not every homeowner is aware of the many benefits from aerating, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, has provided some key information about it for you below.

If you want to keep your yard healthy and green, here are three reasons lawn aeration is a necessity:

Reduces Soil Compaction: One of the primary reasons aeration is important is because it reduces soil compaction, which can quickly damage a yard. Your lawn’s soil needs room for nutrients and air circulation so it can remain healthy and full. If you have children who frequently play in the yard, or there are areas that receive lots of traffic, you could be compacting your soil and preventing the strong root development needed for your yard to thrive. By aerating your lawn each season, you can ensure it receives all the nutrients and air circulation it needs.

Prevents Thatching: Thatching is when a thick layer of dead grass develops between your soil and the new grass growing on top of it. You’ve likely seen it before: Those large brown or burnt spots littering your yard, or that of your neighbor’s. If your yard easily dries out even after watering, or has a spongy feel in places, you’ve likely got some thatching on your hands. One of the best ways to prevent lawn thatching is by lawn aeration, which allows all of the required water, air, and nutrients to penetrate deep into the soil.

Increase Water Absorption: When your lawn is too compact, water will actually move away from it, rather than seep into the soil where it’s needed. Not only does this scenario seriously damage your yard, but it can also result in spikes in your water bill as you water your lawn more and more to try and bring it back to life. By aerating your yard, you can ensure it’s properly hydrated and receives the nutrients needed to fight occurrences like drought, insect infestation, and disease.

If you think your yard has seen better days, contact the professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati today at (513) 755-9434 to learn more about how lawn aeration can bring your yard back to life. You can also visit them online for a closer look at their lawn treatment and irrigation services.

Lawn Care Experts Offer Tips for Controlling Grub Worms

Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:10:10 GMT

If your grass looks brown or burnt in areas even though you water it on a regular basis, there may be more going on underneath the surface. Your yard could be suffering from a grub worm infestation. The lawn care experts from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, strive to keep area yards in the best condition possible. Here, they share a few tips to help you combat grubs.

If you think you have grub worms on your property, follow the advice of these lawn care specialists:

Identify Grub-Infested Areas: The most obvious sign of a grub infestation is a brown and burnt-looking lawn or patches of grass that appear to be dying; such grass will peel easily away from the soil, like pulling up carpet.

Water Thoroughly: Grubs like lots of soil and grass that’s easy to move through. Water your lawn deeply often to encourage thicker turf, so it is more difficult for them to move in.
De-Thatch Grass: If you suspect you have grubs, first remove any thick thatch layers of your lawn. This will enable grub treatment to penetrate it properly and thoroughly.
Watch Surrounding Lawns: One way to stay on top of grub growth is by monitoring the yards around yours. If you notice brown patches and areas that look like grub infestation on your neighbor’s lawn, it can easily spread to yours. In such cases, taking preventative measures, like over-seeding, aerating your yard, and investing in the services of a lawn care expert, can help keep your grass green and healthy.

If you think you have grubs and need professional extermination of these worms, contact the lawn care professionals from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation at (513) 755-9434 . They perform aeration, fertilization, and insect and grub control. Visit them online to learn more about their wealth of lawn treatment and irrigation services.

Destructive Garden Pests You Should Never Ignore

Fri, 18 Aug 2017 16:14:03 GMT

A lush, vibrant garden is the highlight of any landscape, but keeping plants healthy is no easy task. Plants are susceptible to damage from many factors, including extreme temperatures, inadequate hydration, and destructive insects. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in West Chester, OH, is the Cincinnati area’s premier lawn care services provider. Here, their team discusses five of the most destructive garden pests.

5 Insects That Could Destroy Your Plants

1. Aphids

Aphids are a bane for gardeners everywhere. These tiny pear-shaped insects are notorious for sucking away at roses, honeysuckles, and other flowers, as well as fruits and vegetables, ornamentals, and shade trees. They suck plant sap, causing foliage to wilt and deform. They also carry plant viruses and black sooty mold fungus.

2. Borers

Borers destroy flowers from the inside out. The worst of them is the iris borer, which tunnels through the iris rhizome, leaving behind bacterial rot. If you see sawdust-like material at the base of your irises or ragged leaves, chances are borers are the culprits.

3. Cutworms

Cutworms are thick, gray, or black segmented larvae about one inch long. These nocturnal pests usually feast on vegetable and flower seedlings and transplants, chewing through stems at ground level. If not controlled, they can devour vulnerable small plants entirely.

4. Leafhoppers

Leafhoppers are green and about an eighth of an inch long. They don’t congregate in large numbers and usually hop away when approached. But don’t let their innocuous appearance beguile you. These pests carry a toxin in their mouthparts, which they inject in the underside of flower foliage. The result is distorted leaf tips and edges. Leafhoppers also spread aster yellow virus.

5. Mealybugs

Mealybugs are just 3/16 of an inch long and move very slowly. Despite their small stature, they can do a tremendous amount of damage. The honeydew they excrete is conducive to sooty mold growth. When enough mold accumulates on foliage, it can hinder photosynthesis and weaken the plant. If you notice fuzzy white growths on a plant, it’s probably infested with mealybugs.

For help combating these and other destructive pests, contact your local garden experts.You can depend on the team at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation for all your lawn care needs. In addition to pest control, they also provide fertilization, aeration, and weed killers. Call (513) 755-9434 to speak with a helpful team member about scheduling a free lawn care consultation, or visit their website today. For more lawn care tips, follow the team on Facebook .

Why a Soil Test Should Be Your First Step of Lawn Care

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 16:16:25 GMT

The secret to a beautiful lawn is knowing how to cultivate the grass in your yard. Grass grows in a variety of soil types, each with a unique nutrient makeup. Learning what kind of soil you have can help tailor a lawn care program specifically for your yard’s needs. For nearly 30 years, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation has helped Cincinnati, OH, residents determine the best lawn care for their yard, including reviewing soil samples. Here, these experts explain why they always perform a soil test first and how it leads to greener grass.

Before they can determine the best way to care for your yard, they need to know what type of soil you have and what components make it up. First is the pH level, which measures the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Next, the test distinguishes the type and quantity of lime in your soil.

All of this information allows the team at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation to determine what your soil is lacking and what type of fertilizer can be applied to help it grow. Fertilizer requirements and lawn treatments vary depending on the nutrients and pH levels in the soil.

Only a soil test can help you determine the pH and nutrient levels in your yard. Because it requires a delicate balance, the safest step is to let the lawn care experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation perform a soil test before any fertilizer is applied.

If you’re ready for a luscious lawn, let Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation conduct a free lawn care analysis. They have the experience to determine and provide the best lawn treatment program for your yard. Call them at (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website for more information.

Tips for Watering Your Plants from Cincinnati’s Lawn Care Pros

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 16:28:54 GMT

Now that summer has arrived, it’s likely that your plants will need a little extra care to survive the warm temperatures. While occasionally spraying your plants with a garden hose may seem like enough, proper watering requires both dedication and effort. Help your garden thrive this summer by following these simple tips from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation , Cincinnati, OH’s top lawn care professionals.

Tips for Watering Your Plants

Water by Weight

When watering hanging or potted plants, it’s important to lift each planter beforehand. Pots and baskets that feel heavy are already well-saturated and don’t need additional watering. However, if it feels light, that indicates the soil is dry and needs more moisture. With time, you’ll learn what each container should feel like when the soil is thoroughly dampened. In turn, it will help you gauge when it’s time to water again.

Start with Soil

For plants that aren’t in pots, lawn care professionals recommend paying close attention to ground conditions. Just looking at the top soil isn’t enough, as plants often have deep roots that extend well below the surface. Instead, purchase a soil-moisture sensor from a local lawn services company, or simply use a garden spade to check the ground next to each plant. Healthy, well-watered soil should be thoroughly moist for several inches under the surface. If it’s dry and crumbly, water your plants as soon as possible.

Slow and Steady

Whether you’re tending a potted plant or a garden bed, watering too quickly just isn’t effective. For potted plants, focus on slowly adding moisture near the roots, giving the water time to sink into the soil before pouring more. Doing so may take several minutes, depending on the size of each pot.

For larger lawns and garden beds, it can take several hours for water to penetrate deep into the soil. Spending hours outside watering your garden or lawn isn’t practical, so investing in a slow-drip irrigation system, or an automatic sprinkler system is a great option for many homeowners.

Don’t Over Do It

Oversaturating plants is just as harmful as not watering enough. Too much moisture in the soil hinders air circulation that’s essential for keeping roots healthy. What’s more, overwatering can lead to damage from plant diseases and root rot. To prevent this, lawn care professionals recommend checking soil and weather conditions regularly.

For more helpful tips on caring for your plants, contact Nature Plus Lawn Care & Irrigation. With a reputation for offering top-quality irrigation and lawn services, this team of experienced professionals has been serving the Cincinnati are for over 25 years. Call (513) 755-9434 to schedule a lawn treatment or visit their website .

How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint with Greener Lawn Care

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 16:23:11 GMT

If you’re concerned about protecting the environment, you probably already take several steps to reduce your household’s carbon footprint. Using energy efficient appliances, switching to cold water for laundry, and programming your thermostat, for example, are all great ways to reduce your energy demands. But what about the outside of your house? If you’re looking for greener lawn care options, try making a few simple changes this summer.

For a sustainable lawn that supports the environment, start by:

Preparing for Summer: With the arrival of hot and dry summer weather, water conservation is essential. You can reduce your home’s water usage by making core aeration and irrigation part of your seasonal lawn care activities. By increasing air flow between the soil and environment, the former improves heat and drought tolerance, meaning less water is needed to keep the lawn green. With professional irrigation, you’ll also be able to water your grass more efficiently, keeping it healthy while still conserving water.

Growing Veggies at Home: Turning a portion of your yard into a vegetable and herb garden is a wonderful way to create a greener outdoor space that the whole family will enjoy. Growing your own food results in fewer trips to the grocery store, which means fewer gas emissions and expenses. Eating fruits and vegetables straight from your backyard also reduces the carbon impact associated with shipping commercial crops over long distances. To help your garden thrive, don’t forget to schedule professional soil testing and natural lawn treatment before planting.

Fertilizing with Care: Responsible fertilization is an important part of environmentally friendly lawn care. For a greener lawn, opt for naturally rich soil and select an organic based fertilizer. You can purchase this from Nature Plus, a garden supply center, or make compost from leaves and organic materials in your yard.

Enjoy a healthy, thriving lawn for years to come with help from Nature Plus Lawn Care & Irrigation . With over 25 years of experience serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, they’ve earned a reputation for trustworthy and reliable lawn care service. Offering a range of lawn treatment options, including irrigation and soil testing, their team will help you achieve a lush, beautiful outdoor space that you’ll be able to enjoy year-round. Call (513) 755-9434 or visit their website for more information about their services. Like them on Facebook for the latest news and specials.

Summer Lawn Care: Disease & Fungus Issues to Watch For

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 16:25:49 GMT

Lawn disease can happen in any season, but it’s especially prevalent in the summer. However, it can sometimes be hard to tell whether you have a disease or a fungus—and what to do about it. By learning what to look for, you can diagnose and treat your yard issues appropriately. Fortunately, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, can help with all of your lawn care needs so you can enjoy a beautiful landscape all season long.

Here, they share three common lawn diseases to watch for this summer:

Dollar Spot: This fungus causes circular brown patches about the size of a silver dollar on your lawn. This kills grass straight down to the roots, which can leave your yard susceptible to scarring and infestation from other weeds. Improper lawn care, such as too little irrigation and fertilization, can exacerbate the problem, as can too much thatch left over from the winter.
Leaf Spot: When you notice small, brown dots spreading over the leaves, or blades, of grass, you have leaf spot. This is caused by a fungus that loves wet weather, so look for it if you have an unusually rainy period during the height of summer. If you notice similar symptoms in cool weather, you probably have a fungus called “melting out” instead of true leaf spot.

Brown Patch Lawn Disease: Look for irregular-shaped round areas that start with a purplish green color and then turn brown. These patches often look sunken into the yard, while the edges appear moist and darker. This disease usually appears during hot and humid spells during the summer when the nights also stay warm.

Make sure you check your yard for irregular colors and patches on your grass this summer. The earlier you spot the issue, the easier it will be for the lawn care experts to treat it. For help with a lawn disease or fungus this season, work with Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. To schedule an appointment in Cincinnati, call (513) 755-9434 or contact them online today.

When Should I Perform Fertilization on My Lawn?

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 16:19:37 GMT

Nothing says summer like a lush, green lawn. If you notice your yard looks a little lackluster this year, it may be time to consider fertilization . Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, understands how fertilizing your yard can significantly impact the health and look of your grass. If you’re not sure when to fertilize, there are several obvious signs. Here, the lawn care experts explain those indicators and how to create the perfect fertilization schedule.

Primary lawn care typically begins in early spring. As grass comes in, pay attention to the pace, color, and density. If you notice it growing unevenly or see any dead patches, fertilization can help. Putting down the right amount of fertilizer at the correct time will give your grass the nutrients it needs to grow healthy and strong.

The best time to apply fertilizer varies. Every lawn is different, especially depending on the climate, so you may initially have some trial and error while building a fertilization schedule . A more exact assessment point is when the soil reaches an even 55 degrees Fahrenheit, as this is when other plants begin their growing season.

As the weather warms up, you may need to water your lawn more often. Dry grass also indicates that it’s time to begin fertilizing. If you’re watering frequently, fertilize every six weeks. Large amounts of water promote more growth, and adding fertilizer to the mix will ensure the grass receives the nutrients it needs.

With the right timing, you’ll notice an immediate difference in your yard once you start the fertilization process. If you need assistance, turn to the lawn care professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. They can offer valuable advice on lawn treatments and provide a variety of services to help your yard stay in top shape. Call (513) 755-9434 today to schedule an appointment and visit the website to learn more about their lawn care services.

Discover Why Lawn Aeration Is Important

Thu, 25 May 2017 16:36:05 GMT

Maintaining a healthy lawn with lush, green grass is a priority for many homeowners. One way to achieve the yard of your dreams is through aeration . This process allows air, water, and much-needed nutrients to reach grass roots, making it thrive. When residents in Cincinnati, OH, and surrounding neighborhoods want expert lawn care, they turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . They offer everything from aeration to irrigation to fertilization. Here, they share more information on why aeration is so beneficial.

Understanding Lawn Aeration & Its Benefits

What Is Aeration?

Sometimes, despite your efforts to fertilize, water, and tend to your yard, your lawn can look lackluster. This is because your soil may be compacted, which keeps water and nutrients from reaching the roots. That’s where lawn aeration comes in. This process opens up grass thatch and soil to allow these properties to reach the roots and help your lawn thrive. Aeration is performed using a special machine that creates cylindrical holes throughout your yard.

Can Lawn Aeration Help My Soil?

Soil can easily become compacted, especially if your lawn has constant foot traffic or your kids and pets enjoy romping in the yard. Aeration can combat soil compaction by breaking through the thatch. By placing these tiny holes throughout your lawn, your grass can breathe and nutrients will have direct access to plant roots.

Does Aeration Improve Water Absorption?

Healthy grass can create a thick thatch, reducing access to the topsoil. As a result, it may be challenging for water to successfully absorb deep into the ground. When this happens, you’ll notice puddles in your yard after watering or following a rain storm. Aeration can curb this problem by allowing more of the water to seep into the ground and by more effectively watering your lawn, this in turn will lead to better growth.

If your grass could benefit from aeration, call Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation today at (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment. They also provide professional irrigation, fertilization , and specialized lawn care services throughout Cincinnati, OH, and its surrounding areas. To find out more about how this trusted lawn care company can help you maintain a beautiful yard, check out their website .

Why You Need Climate-Appropriate Lawn Services

Thu, 18 May 2017 16:38:40 GMT

When choosing the right lawn services to get your garden looking its best, you need to factor in your area’s climate. Selecting the right plants and treatment for your local weather will give you a natural and low-maintenance yard. Here, the lawn care experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, explain how their seasoned professional factor in your local geography and climate to deliver top-quality results.

Determine Fertilization Needs Based on Your Soil

Different soils throughout the United States vary in terms of sand and clay content, as well as acidity. A great lawn care provider will fertilize your garden based on the characteristics of the local soil. This ensures that grass and plants get the nutrition they need to grow healthy and strong.

Implement Irrigation Depending on Wetness

With its cold and snowy winters and hot and humid summers, Cincinnati weather covers an array of climate types. Variations in moisture throughout the year make irrigation essential to a healthy garden—however, it’s important to control how much water your plants get. Too much moisture can lead to mold, rotting roots, and other diseases; while too little can leave plants to dry out and die.

Add Aeration as Needed

Aeration helps air circulate through soil, which allows gardens to thrive in all climates. This process ensures the plant roots obtain enough oxygen and get all of the nutrients when fertilizer is applied.

A local lawn services provider will help maintain your garden by taking into consideration your climate. Serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation offers diverse lawn care services, from fertilization and aeration to weed killer treatments and irrigation. Visit their website to find out more about their satisfaction guarantee or call (513) 755-9434 to discuss your needs today.

A Beginner's Guide to Essential Lawn Care Tools

Fri, 24 Mar 2017 16:41:04 GMT

The plants and flowers in your garden require regular maintenance to look their best. From trimming hedges to weeding out unwanted growth, the many tasks you do to make your lawn look great can be made easier with the right tools. Here, the lawn services technicians at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation of Cincinnati, OH, lay out their starter guide to the must-have lawn care tools.

Whether you own or rent these items, these tools will make all of your lawn care tasks easy to tackle:

Lawn Mower: Keeping grass trimmed promotes healthy growth. You can choose from many different types, including a push mower, lawn tractor, and electric- or gas-powered. Regardless of the type, keep your mower blades sharpened to ensure peak performance.
Edger: An edger is used to cut clean and even borders along key landscaping areas, from flowerbeds to walkways. This gives the garden a neat and tidy appearance. Like your mower, an edger will require regular tuneups to ensure the parts are well-lubricated and operating at their best.
Leaf Blower: Raking up leaves or grass cuttings can be tedious and time-consuming. However, a leaf blower can save you that time and effort, moving the debris into organized piles. An electric blower doesn’t require much maintenance, but a gas-powered model will need regular tuneups.
Fertilizer Spreader: To reap maximum results from your fertilization , invest in a spreader for even distribution. Choose from a rotary, drop, or sprayer model. Always rinse out the holding compartment with the hose after use, as leaving remnants behind can cause explosions.

These are some of the most useful gardening tools Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation recommends. In addition, traditional items such as rakes, shovels, and pruners are all useful to keep around for regular use. They can help easily gather up debris, move soil, and trim plants and trees.

To make taking care of your lawn a breeze, hire a lawn care professional to get the job done for you. If you need lawn services in Cincinnati, OH, or the surrounding area, look to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out more about their services.

Lawn Care Pros Explain What Common Weeds Reveal About Your Soil

Fri, 17 Mar 2017 16:42:12 GMT

Weeds may mar the appearance of your lawn, but they aren’t all bad news. In fact, they give you valuable information about the health of your soil. So before you spray them away with weed killer, make use of what they can tell you. Here, the lawn care experts of Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, explain what certain weeds can reveal about your soil quality.

Birdweed

A cousin of the morning glory, birdweed looks delicate, with its small blue or purple flowers. However, these plants point to compacted soil, often topped off by a hard crust that makes lawn care tough. While hardy birdweed can survive here, this type of soil can prove tricky for other plants.

Dandelions

If there’s one weed you can’t seem to escape, it’s the dandelion. If you have lots of these sunny yellow flowers on your lawn, it may indicate a high clay content in the soil. This can make it difficult for grass and other plants to grow.

Clover

Clover is also a red flag if it’s running wild in your yard. This plant indicates low levels of nitrogen in the soil. While lawn grass struggles under these conditions, clover works with symbiotic bacteria that provide it with the nitrogen it needs to thrive.

Some weeds indicate good news about your yard, however. The appearance of horsetail, dock, or buttercup, for instance, points to a valuable wetland habitat. This means less watering for you. Such gardens also attract a wide variety of wildlife—a great bonus for bird watchers and animal lovers in general.

Weeds provide valuable messages about your soil quality. However, the most reliable way to assess this is with a professional test, which can measure diverse elements like pH levels. Once you know more about your soil, you can adapt your lawn care plan accordingly. If you’re in the Cincinnati, OH, area, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation will be happy to perform such an assessment. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out more about their services.

Spruce Up Your Landscape With These Lawn Care Tips

Thu, 23 Feb 2017 16:45:21 GMT

Even the most beautiful garden can benefit from the occasional nip and tuck of landscaping. Luckily, there are many simple lawn care tricks that make for an easy yet eye-catching makeover. Read on for some ideas on how you can spruce up your landscape.

These lawn care tips require relatively minimal time, money, and effort:

Make Time for a Trim : Catch up on simple yard work to address unruly growth, like mowing the lawn and trimming hedges. Like an overdue haircut, some small snips can make a big difference when it comes to creating a clean-cut and attractive appearance.
Clear Away Debris: After you’ve trimmed excess growth, it’s the perfect occasion to clear your lawn of extra debris. A leaf blower offers a quick solution for blasting away leaves, grass clippings, and small sticks strewn about your lawn. If you have hardscaped areas like stone walkways or terraces, give them a once-over with a broom for a tidy appearance.
Clean Off Accoutrements: From patio furniture to flower pots, many outdoor accessories can benefit from a quick clean. Break out the garden hose and spray down dirty deck furniture, flower pots, and planters. Follow up by wiping the area down with a damp sponge.
Consider Extras: Spring is a great time to consider new additions to your garden. Maybe your flowerbeds could benefit from some new bulbs, or you want to invest in a new sprinkler system for your garden. Whether it’s a new planter on your front step or a top-of-the-line irrigation system for the lawn, when the weather gets warmer, you can start considering these additional improvements.

If you find yourself lacking the time or the energy to implement these lawn care tips, a landscaping company can help. Professionals like those at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation can also give you customized pointers to take your garden to the next level. Serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding area, these lawn treatment professionals offer diverse gardening services, from fertilization to irrigation system installation. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to learn more.

Lawn Care Experts Explain Why You Should Know Your Region’s Grass Types

Thu, 23 Feb 2017 16:44:03 GMT

The United States has a land area of almost 3.8 million square miles. Given its expansive territory, this country is home to many different types of plants—including numerous grass species. These varying grasses grow and thrive in different environments, so knowing which grasses you have in your garden—and what works best—can help you optimize your lawn care routine. Here, the lawn services professionals from Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, elaborate on some popular options.

The northern United States is conducive to cool weather grasses that can handle short growing seasons and extreme climate variations. Some common cool weather grasses include:

Kentucky Bluegrass: This is the most popular cool season grass. While it goes dormant in extremely hot or cold weather, it spreads easily—giving you a thick, lush lawn.
Red Fescue: One drawback of Kentucky Bluegrass is that it doesn’t perform well in shady areas. Fill them in with Red Fescue, which flourishes in cool, shaded spots. This low-maintenance option also requires minimal fertilization and watering.
Perennial Ryegrass: This grass does best in cool, moist environments.

In general, the South is more hot and humid than the North. The soil in these areas is also different, often having a more clay- or sand-like consistency. Grasses that do well in milder climates include:

Bermuda Grass: This common grass is known for being drought resistant and adaptable.
Saint Augustine: Another popular grass in the southern United States, Saint Augustine is especially well-suited for coastal regions.
Zoysia: Like Bermuda Grass, Zoysia is extremely drought tolerant. Thanks to its deep roots, it also does well on sandy seashores.

Ensure that your garden has the region-appropriate grass and you will have a lush, lovely yard year-round. As lawn care specialists in the Cincinnati area, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation can advise you regarding grasses that will do well in your geographic area. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 for more information on all of their services.

DIY Weed Killers: Homemade Ways to Rid Your Garden of Unwanted Growth

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 16:47:21 GMT

Weed control is one of the most common lawn care problems. With some time and effort, however, you can conquer even the peskiest plants. Here, the lawn services professionals of Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation offer their top DIY weed killer tips. Serving Cincinnati and the surrounding areas, these pros know exactly how to nix unwanted weeds common to the state of the Ohio.

Manual Weed Removal

If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, manual weed removal is one of the safest options. It doesn’t involve any chemicals and offers a targeted approach. Make sure to pull the plant out at the root, not just by the head, or it will grow back. You can also invest in a special weed pulling tool to help complete the job more easily.

After you’re done pulling the weeds, add mulch to prevent additional growth. Lay down a landscaping fabric in the target area and evenly spread a layer of mulch two to three inches deep.

Homemade Solutions

For a DIY approach that takes less time and effort, a quick spritz with a homemade solution can tackle stubborn weeds. You can use common ingredients found in your kitchen to get started.

For instance, diluted vinegar makes a good weed killer. The acetic acid found in vinegar kills weeds by removing moisture from the plant’s leaves. Combine a few tablespoons of vinegar with water in a spray bottle. To make this mixture more potent, add a teaspoon of salt, which is another drying agent. Note that salt will stick to the soil, so this mixture is best used on barren areas like driveways, walkways, or terraces. Vinegar also impacts other plants, so you always spray the mixture on a targeted area.

If these methods don’t do the trick or you don’t have the time required for DIY weed care, a professional lawn treatment can help. For expert lawn care services, including weed killers and irrigation, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out more about their services.

Follow These Tips for Choosing a Cincinnati Lawn Care Service

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 16:48:33 GMT

When you want a beautiful, lush yard without all of the work, turn to a trusted lawn care provider. To make sure you hire a reliable and professional source, you need to do a little research. If you’re not sure how to assess the lawn services experts in your area, these tips can help you find a trustworthy professional.

5 Ways to Choose Lawn Care Specialists

Check Credentials

Start with the basics and ensure that any potential lawn care provider you hire is insured. Some states require them to also be licensed—you can check the requirements for your state here . If you’re considering a chemical lawn treatment , it’s also important to ensure the professional is licensed to apply them.

Ask for References

In addition to basic credentials, you can also assess a lawn care provider on the basis of their references. Any reputable business will be happy to give you testimonials from previous customers to demonstrate their quality.

Beware of Quick Fixes

Effective lawn care takes time and effort. An overnight cure for distressed plants, for instance, is unrealistic. Use caution if a lawn services provider promises a quick solution.

Ask for an Estimate

It’s impossible to provide an accurate assessment for lawn care services over the phone. A dedicated professional will have to assess a potential job in person, checking your garden’s size, plants, and health—among other factors. Get an on-site estimate before making a commitment.

Steer Clear of Scams

Some research will go a long way when finding a trustworthy lawn services provider. Beware of those that knock on your door to solicit business—especially if they ask for payment before providing any services. You should only pay once the job is complete and you are satisfied.

If you need a reputable lawn care provider in Cincinnati, OH, or the surrounding area, look to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . These professionals provide reliable and effective lawn services, including aeration, fertilization, irrigation, and sprinkler system installation. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out how they can help you get your garden ready for spring.

5 DIY Lawn Care Tips for the New Year

Wed, 25 Jan 2017 16:50:01 GMT

If you enjoy getting your hands dirty in the garden, resolve to spend more time pursuing lawn care this year. Here, the experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provide some DIY lawn care tips you can implement yourself. From the best foliage for the region to season-appropriate watering tips, these professionals know exactly how to create lovely gardens in Cincinnati, OH.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and try out these pro lawn care tips:

Sharpen Your Blades: Before spring rolls in, have your mower blades sharpened. A dull blade can tear grass, leaving it damaged. This makes it look uneven and leaves it vulnerable to pests.
Invest in New Blooms: Don’t limit your springtime garden purchases to only grass seeds and weed killer. Indulge in your gardening interest by treating yourself to new bulbs, planters, or potted plants.
Mix Up Your Mowing: While you may have a lawn mowing routine, consider changing it up. Cutting the lawn in a new pattern prevents ruts from forming. Overlap every pass with the mower by about three inches to get a more even result.
Give Grass Time to Grow: You might think that keeping your grass short is best, but you should never cut it by more than one-third of its height at one time. Tall grass can grow deeper roots, making it more resilient and requiring less water.
Put Safety First: Don’t forget about safety in pursuit of the perfect lawn. Choose a mower with a safety handle and always clear the lawn before mowing; also make sure to cut hills across the slope, not up and down. Invest in gardening goggles and gloves to protect yourself when digging in the dirt.

Even the most hands-on homeowner can use some help when it comes to maintaining a picture-perfect lawn. Whether you need a new irrigation system or want to give your blooms an extra boost with fertilization, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation can help. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out how these lawn care pros can help improve your Cincinnati yard.

Cold Weather Lawn Care Tips

Mon, 19 Dec 2016 16:52:34 GMT

Appropriate lawn care during the cold winter months can help protect roots and seedlings, ensuring a vibrant garden come spring. Here, the lawn care professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation share their tips for cold weather lawn care. Serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas with an array of lawn services , including fertilization, irrigation, sprinkler system installation, and more, these pros know how to maintain healthy gardens throughout Ohio’s chilly winters.

Here are some of their essential cold weather lawn care tips:

Fertilize In Advance: Before the snow sets in, give your lawn a last dose of fertilizer. Use a winter mix containing the extra nutrients your garden needs to maintain its health over the winter. Weed and aerate your lawn beforehand to ensure your grass gets the most from the fertilization .
Initiate Pre-Winter Mowing Strategies: Cutting your grass short before winter will deter field mice and other burrowing critters from making themselves at home in the long vegetation when it gets cold. Cutting it short at once can be a shock to the plant’s system, however. In the run-up to winter, start cutting your grass shorter with each mowing session. The turf that remains will help protect fragile new growth come spring.
Keep The Lawn Clear: From fallen branches to summer toys—many items can be left on the lawn and forgotten about under snow during the winter. Keep your lawn clear of any objects, as they can cause large dead spots of grass down the line. You should also avoid excess foot traffic, as it could wear a path in the grass that won’t be seen until spring. Keep sidewalks free of snow and ice to deter people from walking on the lawn.

If you need help getting your lawn prepped for the winter season, look to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Providing custom lawn care for clients in Cincinnati, OH, these skilled lawn technicians will have your garden looking its best—whatever the season. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out more about their lawn services.

Winterizing Lawn Care Tips to Ensure a Healthy Yard

Sun, 11 Dec 2016 16:54:26 GMT

If you want a lush lawn and budding flowers in your garden this coming spring, start putting your green thumb to work now. Winter lawn care not only protects your plants against frost and cold this season, but it also repairs damage and encourages rejuvenation below ground. Here, the experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, explain the importance of winterizing your lawn—and what you need to do to pave the path for a healthy garden come spring.

When you view your lawn during the winter months, it might look dormant. In fact, though, there is a lot of work going on underground during these cold months, as plants combat the cold and roots work to prepare for springtime sprouting. For the best winterization results, weed your garden thoroughly before you start your lawn care plan. This ensures that the protective measures you take will truly benefit your plants.

Next, assess the soil. Plants need healthy soil to grow and thrive. Check the soil’s pH levels in the winter as it tends to lose important nutrients. Before winter arrives, treat overly acidic patches with lime products and alkaline patches with sulfur. In addition, nourish your soil with a special winter fertilizer. Containing more potassium than warm-weather fertilizers, winter formulas are designed to strengthen plants facing stress from cold and frost.

To ensure your plants get the full benefit of fertilization , aerate your lawn first. Aeration allows nutrients from fertilizer, as well as air and water, to effectively reach plant roots. Once you’ve fed your garden for the winter, you can give it a “winter coat” to guard against the cold. Protect flower and vegetable beds by laying mulch on the topsoil, planting a cover crop, or covering them with burlap. Depending on the type of flower, most potted plants should be moved indoors.

If you want help winterizing your garden, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Serving Cincinnati and the surrounding areas, these landscaping experts offer an array of lawn services, from mowing and pruning to fertilization and irrigation. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule lawn care treatment.

Lawn Care Tips for Controlling Irritating Insects

Tue, 06 Dec 2016 16:58:16 GMT

Some insects can be beneficial to your garden, offering natural fertilizer and eating annoying critters like mosquitos. Other bugs that make themselves at home in your grass can be damaging, however—especially if present in large numbers. Striking the right balance of insects in your garden is about the right lawn care practices. If you use adequate measures to keep populations under control from the start, you can avoid using serious chemicals—which can cause further damage—later.

The best protection against insect infestation is to ensure a healthy lawn all year-round. Appropriate watering is one important building block. Critters like chinch bugs make their homes in dried out lawns. These bugs cause small yellow patches in your grass that, left unattended, can expand significantly, resulting in your entire lawn turning yellow or brown. Water your lawn regularly to keep chinch bugs at bay.

Excess thatch removal can also help control the pests in your grass. Thatch makes an ideal spot for all kinds of insects to build their nests and start breeding. If you don’t control excessive thatch in your yard, you will soon find a full infestation of pesky bugs.

Lastly, regular fertilization and irrigation can manage lawn insects all year. These processes ensure your plants are getting the nutrients they need. By keeping your garden strong and healthy, it can persevere, even in the face of insect invasions.

With these simple lawn care tips, you can keep unwanted creepy crawlers at bay, making for a healthy and balanced ecosystem. If you don’t have the time or tools needed to maintain your lawn in the battle against bugs, trust a lawn care professional to get the job done. For residents of Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation has the expertise needed to handle an array of lawn services. To find out more, call (513) 755-9434 or visit the website .

Lawn Services: What You Need to Know About Thatch Control

Wed, 12 Oct 2016 17:00:54 GMT

Excess thatch—a layer of dead or decomposing plant material that weaves itself into your grass in a mat-like fashion—is both unsightly and unhealthy for the grass. Fortunately, a lawn services expert can help you control thatch. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation serves Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas with a variety of lawn care services, including thatch control. These lawn care professionals have all the tools and expertise needed to get rid of this problem.

Thatch generally consists of plant materials that are more resistant to decay, such as stems, leaf sheaths, and roots. They can clump together in a tightly interwoven layer between your healthy green lawn and the soil surface below. While a small layer of thatch isn’t necessarily harmful, if it gets out of control, it can harbor organisms and insects that will make your lawn vulnerable to disease and drought.

If you notice thatch more than a half-inch thick developing on your lawn, it’s time to call a lawn services professional. Their thatch removal methods will depend on the severity of the case. Mechanical removal—aeration followed by vertical mowing—is one effective option. Biological removal using liquid or dry de-thatching agents is another possibility. Your lawn services expert will determine the best way to address your thatch problem and give your yard the ongoing care needed to prevent thatch from developing further.

If you’re in need of professional lawn services in Cincinnati, OH, or the surrounding areas, trust Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. These experts can advise you on all kinds of lawn care matters, from how often you should be mowing your lawn to which flowers will do best in the local climate. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out more.

Fall Fertilization for a Healthy Lawn in Cincinnati

Mon, 26 Sep 2016 17:02:58 GMT

Using fertilizer in the fall can help your lawn sustain its health throughout the cold winter months. Providing top-quality lawn care services from aeration to fertilization, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation helps Cincinnati, OH, area homeowners maintain a healthy lawn, keeping grass green and lush, whatever the weather.

When Cincinnati’s chilly winters hit, your garden may appear to go dormant. However, there’s still plenty of activity going on beneath the ground that you can’t see, as plant roots continue to grow. Fall fertilization can promote the growth of strong and healthy roots throughout the winter, so your lawn looks beautiful and lush come spring. Fertilizers usually contain a mix of ingredients, such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, to promote growth and health.

The ideal makeup of your fall fertilizer depends on the type of grass growing on your lawn, as well as the quality of your soil. The lawn care experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation will help you determine the appropriate fertilizer for your yard by conducting a soil test. These local pros know all of the differences between types of soil makeups and can tailor fall fertilization to suit your lawn’s specific needs.

Don’t let the cold months ruin your lawn—schedule your fall fertilization before winter arrives. In addition to fertilizer services, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation also provides weed control, disease treatments, irrigation, core aeration, and more. Find out more about the diverse lawn care services they offer in the Cincinnati area on their website . When you are ready to get your lawn looking greener than ever, call (513) 755-9434 to make an appointment.

Using a Lawn Aerator: Tips From Cincinnati’s Lawn Care Pro

Sun, 18 Sep 2016 17:04:10 GMT

Lawn aeration opens up compacted soil and lets in air, water, and fertilizer to help your yard grow green and healthy. To get the best results from this lawn care task, you need to know how a lawn aerator works and when the best time is to hire the expert services of a professional lawn company. Serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation provides exceptional lawn care services, including irrigation installation, mosquito control, and core aeration .

Here are several basics behind the process of aeration:

Type Of Turf: The grass you have will determine the proper aeration techniques and timing. Lawn grasses come in two main varieties: warm-season grasses, which start their active growth period in summer, and cool-season, which emerge in early fall. The former includes breeds such as Buffalo, Centipede, and Bermuda. Cool-season varieties include Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Ryegrass.
Soil: Soil variations also determine a successful aeration approach. More compact clay soils require the use of a lawn aerator at least once per year, while some sandy lawns only need aeration every two years. The local weather will further contribute to how often your soil needs aeration.
Timing: Timing is very important for successful aeration. Warm-season turf is best aerated in late spring or early summer, while cool-season turf should undergo aeration in early fall—at least four weeks before the first frost.
Preparation: Some prep work is required before using a lawn aerator. Eliminate any weeds to prevent them from spreading. Also, since aeration creates the perfect opening for nutrients and seeds to enter the earth, you should wait to fertilize or reseed your lawn until aeration is complete.

Done correctly, aeration helps ensure rapid growth of a healthy and lush lawn. For the best results, entrust the lawn care professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Aeration is a tough job, and these experts have the right insight, tools, and techniques necessary to perform this lawn care task correctly and effectively. Call (513) 755-9434 for a consultation or visit the website to schedule a lawn aerator appointment.

Watch for Common Lawn Diseases From Cincinnati’s Lawn Care Experts

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 17:05:07 GMT

From brown spots to mold, a variety of symptoms indicate lawn diseases. The lawn care experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation will help you pinpoint problem areas and provide a variety of lawn treatments to cure them. Serving Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, these lawn services and irrigation specialists offer an array of lawn cures, from fertilization to aeration.

Here, they describe the symptoms of three lawn diseases and their respective lawn care treatments :

Dollar Spot: So-called dollar spots are identifiable by brown spots, usually two to six inches in diameter. Affecting bluegrass and ryegrass, this disease results from wet foliage or drought soils. Regular fertilizer and appropriate disposal of grass clippings will help prevent this disease.
Fairy Ring: A fairy ring stands out as a large arc or ring of either unnaturally green or dead grass. It may also grow mushrooms. You can usually prevent fairy rings from forming by removing old organic matter, like rotting lumber and tree stumps, from the soil before planting your garden. Proper fertilization and aeration will also help.
Brown Patch: Hot and wet weather can lead to infections that cause grass to die and become discolored. The result is tan circles on your lawn, which can grow to three feet in diameter. To stave off this nasty lawn disease, avoid overusing fertilizers high in nitrogen. Additionally, watering early in the day allows grass to dry off, keeping grass from sitting in the moist state that breeds this disease.

If you suspect your lawn is suffering from a disease, contact Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation as soon as possible. The quicker you catch a problem, the easier it will be to restore your grass to its healthy green hue. If you’re in Cincinnati, OH, or the surrounding areas, trust these lawn care and irrigation pros to help. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to make an appointment.

Does Your Lawn Need Aeration?

Wed, 24 Aug 2016 17:07:13 GMT

Air and water support life, and access to these elements is essential for a thriving lawn. This is why aeration is important, say the experts at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation . Serving Cincinnati and the surrounding areas, this leading Ohio lawn care company provides a host of services designed to boost the health and beauty of your lawn, including aeration, professional irrigation , and more.

If your lawn's soil becomes overly compacted, this will prevent air and water from circulating, causing your grass to become starved of these vital elements. Aeration reverses compaction by creating tiny holes in the soil that allow air, water, and other nutrients to easily reach the roots of

your lawn's grass. Below are three questions to ask to determine if your lawn is in need of aeration:

Does Your Lawn Face Frequent Vehicle Traffic? If vehicles—including lawn mowers—frequently drive across your lawn, their weight will put pressure on the soil, and this will create compaction. Over time, this compaction will rob your lawn of key nutrients and cause it to lose its lushness. Aeration is advisable in this situation.

Does Your Lawn Take A Long Time To Drain After It Rains? Aerated soil will easily absorb rain water, but the opposite is true for compacted soil. With compacted soil, water tends to gather in puddles after a downpour. These puddles often linger for a while, taking a long time to drain. This symptom indicates a need for aeration.
Has Your Lawn Even Been Aerated? If your lawn has never been aerated, it will benefit from having this service performed. If you want proof that aeration is necessary, test for compaction by pushing a pencil into the soil. If the soil is compacted, it will be hard and resistant, and you'll have a difficult time getting the pencil to penetrate the earth.

Help your lawn grow and flourish with the expert care provided by Cincinnati's Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Call (513) 755-9434 to schedule an appointment, or explore their aeration services and more by visiting them online .

Lawn Care During Droughts: 3 Tips for Managing Moisture

Wed, 17 Aug 2016 17:11:50 GMT

When dry weather hits during the summer months, managing moisture becomes an essential part of good lawn care. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation serves Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas with top-quality lawn services, including irrigation, aeration, fertilization, and sprinkler system installation. For 25 years, this locally owned and operated company has been helping customers maintain green, lush, healthy lawns—whatever the weather.

Here are their top three tips on managing moisture during droughts:

Maintain Your Sprinkler System: A comprehensive sprinkler system will keep every corner of your lawn moist. This is especially important in seasons with hot, dry weather or insufficient rainfall. A lawn care professional will install, extend, and fix your sprinkler system throughout your yard.

Invest In Core Aeration : Aerating—the process of puncturing the soil of your lawn with small holes—prevents soil compaction and is essential for a healthy lawn at any time of year. When dry weather hits, it’s especially useful, because these little holes allow water, as well as nutrients, to reach grass roots more effectively. When your lawn is struggling to keep its healthy green tint under a scorching summer sun, aerating will help it get everything it needs to stay green and lush.
Water At The Right Times: Avoid watering your lawn when the sun is at its strongest during droughts. The sun will quickly dry out your lawn anyway, taking away much-needed moisture from the grass—and wasting water in the process. Watering in the early morning or at night is the best way for your grass to retain moisture. Also, keep in mind that some states may enact regulations regarding watering lawns during droughts.

If you need lawn services in Cincinnati or the surrounding areas, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. These pros have the expertise and tools to address a range of irrigation and lawn care needs. Visit their website or call (513) 755-9434 to find out more information about their full array of services.

3 Summer Lawn Care Questions to Ask Cincinnati’s Lawn Treatment Specialists

Thu, 04 Aug 2016 17:09:50 GMT

The heat and sun that comes with the summer months can wreak havoc on your lawn. Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation in Cincinnati, OH, offers custom irrigation and lawn care for both commercial and residential customers. From mosquito control and lawn aeration to fertilization and irrigation, their lawn services cover a wide range of needs.

3 Summer Lawn Care Questions

1. What Types Of Plants Should You Grow?

Depending on their environment, various types of grasses, flowers, and plants fare differently. Some require warmer weather and lots of water, while others do best in arid climates. Talk to a local lawn care specialist about which plants are best suited for your yard. Planting a climate-appropriate garden will simplify your lawn care needs.

2. How Much Water Is Needed?

When the sun is shining during the summer, water evaporates more quickly, so your garden will likely require greater attention. It’s also possible to overwater, however. Ask an irrigation and lawn services specialist for insights as to how much water the different plants in your garden need. They will tell you how to avoid brown spots on your lawn and keep your plants green without drenching them.

3. Is A Specialist Needed?

Instead of tasking yourself with endless hours in your garden, consider hiring a lawn services specialist to take care of all of your lawn care needs. A lawn care professional knows the best ways to maintain your yard to ensure it stays green all summer long. This will also allow you to spend more time with your family outdoors or enjoying summer vacations without worrying about your lawn.

If you live in Cincinnati, OH, or the surrounding area, Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation will help keep your lawn fresh and lush with expert summer lawn care. Visit their website to find out more about their services or call (513) 755-9434 to schedule lawn treatment.

About the Business

3 Sprinkler System Maintenance Tips From Cincinnati's Lawn Care Experts

Thu, 21 Jul 2016 17:13:04 GMT

To make sure your sprinkler system continues to operate properly, it’s important to practice basic maintenance. Following a few simple tips will help it run all summer long. For expert lawn care and irrigation services in Cincinnati and the surround area, contact the professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation ; these specialists have the experience and expertise to ensure your lawn stays beautiful.

During the hot summer months, you should water your lawn regularly for the best-looking grass and garden. To maintain your sprinkler system this season, follow these tips:

Clean Nozzles: Clean all of the nozzles and sprinkler heads regularly. This will ensure they don’t get clogged, which would result in less efficient sprinkler performance.
Replace Damaged Items: A sprinkler head that’s broken will often spread water unevenly throughout a lawn, oftentimes creating puddles in certain areas. This problem has a fairly simple fix, though. Just turn off the sprinkler system, remove the broken head, and replace any damaged parts with identical items from the same manufacturer.
Adjust Settings: If you have a particularly large property, not all areas of your yard will need as much water as others. Rather than letting your sprinklers send the same amount of water to each spot, adjust the individual settings, so certain areas don’t get flooded. This will preserve water, saving you money in the long run.

A well-maintained sprinkler system will ensure your yard remains green and lush. For major lawn care projects, contact the professionals at Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Offering a wide array of lawn and irrigation services, this Cincinnati business works hard to beautify lawns all across the Cincinnati area. To learn more about how they can help you create the lawn of your dreams, visit them online . Call (513) 755-9434 to schedule a lawn care or irrigation appointment today.

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Create a Beautiful Lawn With These Fertilization Techniques

What Is Lawn Aeration?

How Does Lawn Aeration Work?

When Is the Best Time to Aerate?

How to Choose the Best Fertilizer for Your Lawn

What All Fertilizers Should Include

How to Find the Right Type for Your Lawn

Why You Should Have an Irrigation System Installed in Your Lawn

What Are the Benefits of an Irrigation System?

1. Save You Precious Time

2. Help the Environment

3. Give You Greater Freedom & Flexibility

A Guide to Weeds In Your Garden's Mulch

Why Do Weeds Grow in Your Mulch?

How Can You Prevent Weeds From Growing in Mulch?

Why It's Important to Fertilize Your Lawn In Early Spring

Snow Mold

When Should You Fertilize Your Lawn?

A Guide to Crabgrass Prevention

Know When & Where to Take Action

Apply Preventive Products

What Are the Most Damaging Winter Lawn Care Mistakes?

Common Winter Lawn Care Mistakes to Avoid

FAQ About Core Aeration

A Guide to Watering the Lawn During Spring and Summer

3 Tips for a Low-Maintenance Yard

3 Types of Sprinkler Systems for Lawns & Gardens

How to Combat Weeds in the Fall

What to Know About Fall Fertilization

Lawn Care Tips for Late Fall

What to Know About Deep Root Feeding

Maintaining Your Irrigation System to Prevent Leaks and Wastage

FAQs About Core Aeration

What Are the Benefits of Late Fall Fertilization?

Why Should You Fertilize in the Late Fall?

1. Fortifies the Root Systems Against Winter Weather

2. Keeps Cool-Season Grasses Green

3. Helps Prevent Springtime Weeds

Common Lawn Fungi and How to Identify Them

4 Common Lawn Fungi

﻿

1. Brown Patch

2. Summer Patch

3. Slime Mold

4. Powdery Mildew

Benefits of Fertilizing Your Lawn in the Fall

3 Ways Your Lawn Benefits From Fall Fertilization

﻿

1. Boosted Energy

2. Minimized Disease Risk

3. Greener Lawn in the Spring

How to Revitalize a Dying Lawn

4 Lawn Care Methods That Will Bring Dead Grass Back to Life

1. Figure Out the Root Cause

2. Water Often

3. Get Rid of Weeds

4. Fertilize Regularly

How Does Core Aeration Benefit a Lawn?

3 Reasons to Schedule Aeration for Your Lawn

1. Better Access to Air and Other Essentials

2. Minimize Thatch

3. Reduce Water Accumulation and Runoff

How to Identify Lawn Fungus

3 Key Signs of Lawn Fungus

1. Brown Patches

2. Pink Web-Like Patches

3. Yellow-Brown Patches Surrounded by Dark Green

4 of Ohio's Toughest Weeds

What Aggressive Weeds Must Ohioans Tend With?

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1. Crabgrass

2. Chickweed

3. Wild Violets

4. Henbit

How to Make the Most of Spring Lawn Care

How Spring Lawn Care Helps New Growth

What to Do at Different Stages

Early Spring

Late Spring