All plants need fertilizer just like they need sunlight and water. Think of fertilizers as healthy supplements for plants. Just like people take vitamins and supplements to achieve optimum health, soil often needs help via fertilizers to be able to give the plants everything they need nutritionally. This helps the plants achieve optimum growth and yield.

Whether you’re working in your garden or trying to get a fresh green lawn all year round, fertilizer can help you get the most out of your plants. Here is a breakdown of the five major types of fertilizer.

Fertilizer with Pesticide

This type of fertilizer is most commonly used when you need to protect your lawn or plants from pests that may damage them. When looking for fertilizer with pesticide, make sure the pesticide is not too strong, otherwise you risk killing your plants too.

Products to look for: Bayer, Jobes, Scotts

Time release fertilizer

If you’re looking for fertilizer that will work for several months, time-release fertilizer is the way to go. These will slowly release their nutrients over a period of 2-6 months typically. The benefit to time-release fertilizer is that the plants have less risk of getting burned because the plants do not receive a full blast of nutrients. However, it’s important to note that the release of nutrients is accelerated in the presence of water and moisture.

Products to look for: Milorganite

Liquid fertilizer

Liquid fertilizers are great when you need to quickly deliver nutrients to your plants, since the liquid seeps right into the roots. You need to reapply more frequently than other types of fertilizer since the liquid is quickly used up by the plant. Using liquid fertilizer on large yards may not be economically feasible, but they work great on indoor and outdoor gardens.

Products to look for: Nachurs, Scotts Miracle-Gro

Plant specific fertilizer

Some plants are down-right picky. For these types of plants, it’s easy to over-fertilize using traditional fertilizer products. This is why there are plant-specific fertilizers. These types of fertilizers are specially designed to give the plants the specific ratio of nutrients they need to thrive.

Products to look for: Cutting Edge Solutions

Inorganic fertilizer

Also known as synthetic fertilizer, this type of fertilizer is best for plants that are in dire need of immediate help. Inorganic fertlizers quickly infuse nutrients to plants and instantly produce ammonia as a by-product which malnourished and dying plants need to revive themselves. It’s usually best to keep a stash of inorganic fertilizer around for when you need it most.

Products to look for: Jobes

Each type of fertilizer has its own advantage. Get to know which types of fertilizers work best with your lawn and garden. Keep a healthy stock of fertilizer in your garden shed or garage so you can use them anytime you need. For more information, visit our Lawn Nutrition and Fertilization page.

Evergreen Turf is your source for the highest quality sod in Arizona. Our friendly, knowledgeable people are committed to answering all of your questions to ensure a stress-free experience with your new Arizona sod lawn. Whether you wish to sod a small play area for the family or an entire golf course, Evergreen Turf can help you make it happen.

Our team serves customers throughout Arizona, including Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe and Tucson. Browse our website for information and tips on how to create and maintain a beautiful lawn, or give us a call if you don’t find what you are looking for. Better yet, stop by and meet the team at our convenient Chandler location.

Do you feel like you’re doing everything right, but your lawn still looks discolored? In Arizona, it can be challenging for some folks to maintain a sod lawn due to the extreme heat of the summer and other factors. The solution to your sod woes might be lawn aeration. In Phoenix, aeration should be an integral part of lawn care. Here’s why.

Relieve Soil Compaction — Over time, foot traffic and dry periods can compact the soil. Aeration relieves this soil compaction. As a result, water quickly reaches the roots before it evaporates. Therefore, less water is needed. Likewise, fertilizer gets to the roots where it is needed.

Lawn Thatch Reduction — It’s good to allow your grass clippings to settle back into the lawn. The need for nitrogen fertilizer can be reduced 25-30 percent by doing so. The clippings decompose over time, thereby enriching and loosening the soil. However, if you have too many clippings left on your lawn, they can weave themselves into a water and air-resistant mat, known as thatch. Heavy thatch can leave your lawn starved for oxygen. Water sits on the thatch, and too much evaporates before it can soak in and nourish the soil and sod. When you aerate your lawn, soil plugs generated by aeration break down and release micro-organisms. These micro-organisms can speed the breakdown of the remaining thatch, which creates a healthier lawn.

Organic Fertilization — To maximize the benefits of organic-based fertilizers, twice-a-year aeration may be preferable. 60 percent slow-release fertilizers are often the best match for freshly aerated lawns.

By contrast, fertilizers too-high in nitrogen can bring about unhealthy growth patterns. Finally, “weed-and-feed” style fertilizers should be avoided, because they are too potent when delivered directly to the roots of younger seedlings. Weed and Feed can actually kill or disfigure such plants.

Healing the Damage — The heat tolerance of your Arizona grass is actually expanded through the aeration process. Lawns damaged by drought can recover more readily. Aeration allows the direct delivery of water and fertilizer to the roots of weakened turf. Grasses that are dormant in the winter can spring back to life more readily with aeration.

Enhance Disease Resistance — A stronger, healthier lawn is also a more disease-resistant one. Plus, unhealthy organisms tend to thrive in heavily thatched lawns.

Germinating Chambers — Think of those holes created by aeration as little chambers where seedlings can get established in an ideal environment of loose, moist soil. The plugs break down and loose soil drops into the holes, creating an ideal environment for the growth of new grass.

The bottom line is, invest in aeration in the short-term and enjoy water and fertilizer savings in the long-term.

Steps to Aerate Your Lawn

Old lawns with extreme thatch, or lawns with heavy traffic are good candidates for aerification. Aerification is normally performed with a core aerator machine that pulls small “cores” out of the lawn, about a half-inch in diameter. This is a service that can be by a contractor, or you can rent an aerator from a local equipment rental company and do it yourself. For more lawn care tips, check out our lawn care frequently asked questions.

At Evergreen Turf, we grow, sell and install the healthiest sod in Arizona. With proper care, your investment in a sod lawn can pay off in a beautiful and functional lawn for years to come. Aeration can represent one helpful component in a complete lawn care regimen.

Select the perfect sod using our lawn selector. Once you’ve found the perfect type of grass, you can order online or by phone. Learn how to measure your lawn and how to install your new lawn with our helpful online guides.

Spring has sprung! The air is warm, the days are long, and people are once again breaking out their lawnmowers to get ready for summer. Homeowners everywhere are stocking up on fertilizer, aerators, garden supplies, and other equipment with a goal of creating a beautiful lush lawn this spring.

If you want a fresh lawn all summer long, it’s best to start with early spring lawn care. During the winter, the pH of your soil can change, creating an unfriendly environment for healthy lawns. Weeds and disease can also pop up during the cold months, so it’s important for you to take the time to properly care for your lawn in the early spring.

Spring Lawn Care Tip #1: Raking

Most Arizona homeowners do not have to wait for the ground to dry out, since most of the state does not see snow during the winter months. However, it’s still important to give your lawn a light raking in the early spring to get rid of any leaves and other debris from the winter months.

Spring Lawn Care Tip #2: Overseeding

Once you’ve raked your yard, you’ll have a better idea of problem areas that need to be addressed. High traffic, dog spots and neglect can all result in bare patches on your lawn. When this happens, you can apply grass seed to fill those bare patches; this is known as “overseeding.” It’s important to note however that overseeding is typically the most successful when done in the fall. So unless your situation is really bad, try to postpone overseeding your lawn until after summer.

Spring Lawn Care Tip #3: Fertilizing

If you’re concerned about using harsh chemical fertilizers on your lawn, you can always use organic compost or mulch instead. But for those who prefer the commercial chemical fertilizers, you can easily find fertilizing schedules to ensure you’re fertilizing your lawn properly. As a tip, it’s best to only use fertilizer lightly in the spring, with heavier doses applied in the fall.

Spring Lawn Care Tip #4: Pull Weeds

Again, for those of you who want to take care of your lawn in the most natural way possible, it’s time to get down and dirty and pull out all those weeds that have grown during the winter. If you like a more hands-off approach, you can apply herbicides to kill perennial weeds.

Spring Lawn Care Tip #5: Lawn Mower Tune-up

With just a little bit of TLC, you can ensure your lawn mower and other lawn equipment stays in good condition all year long. Here are some tips you can use to tune up your lawn mower:

• Remove gasoline
• Disconnect spark plug
• Remove the blade and sharpen it
• Drain the oil
• Clean all the equipment
• Refill the oil
• Replace the spark plug

This is all cheap and easy to do, and will ensure that your lawn equipment works as it should, especially during the spring and summer months when you need it most.

Evergreen Turf is your source for the highest quality sod in Arizona. Our friendly, knowledgeable people are committed to answering all of your questions to ensure a stress-free experience with your new Arizona sod lawn. Whether you wish to sod a small play area for the family or an entire golf course, Evergreen Turf can help you make it happen.

Our team serves customers throughout Arizona, including Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe and Tucson. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions and our Spring Transition page for more spring lawn care advice, or give us a call at 602.626.9959 if you don’t find what you are looking for. Have a specific question about your lawn? Email us at info@evergreenturf.com. Better yet, stop by and meet the team at our convenient Chandler location.

Lawn care isn’t as simple as it might seem. Many homeowners learn this fast.

Even if you attempt to stay on top of lawn maintenance, it’s possible your lawn doesn’t look the way you envisioned it. Perhaps this is happening because you’re making one of the following all-too-common (but equally understandable) lawn care errors:

Mowing Your Grass Too Low

Many homeowners assume it’s best to use the mower setting that will cut their grass the shortest. They may believe doing so will serve two purposes: ensuring their lawn looks neat and orderly while also increasing the length of time they can wait before mowing again.

However, mowing your grass too short can prevent it from absorbing nutrients in sunlight and air. The grass will simply have too little surface area. In addition, mowing too low can damage the roots, leaving them more vulnerable to harm.

For most home lawns, at best mowing height is between 1 to 3 inches.  The shorter you maintain your lawn, the more frequently you will need to mow it.  If you want it less than an inch, you will need to mow it twice per week, which can be a lot of work.  Mowing between 1 to 3 inches will be the optimum for sunlight, water, and nutrient use.

Not Sharpening Your Mower Blades

Don’t assume your mower’s blades are sharp enough to cut your grass effectively! Every season, inspect your mower’s blades to determine whether they’ve grown dull after repeated use.

A common sign of dull blades is grass that appears frayed or shredded. If your grass doesn’t look cleanly cut after a mowing session, visit your local hardware store to ask if they can sharpen your mower blades. If you’d prefer to save money, they may also provide the tools for you to sharpen the blades yourself.

Not Adjusting Lawn Care With the Seasons

The right approach to lawn care during one season may not be ideal during another. Naturally, you may know the grass needs more water during certain times of year than others. In addition, it can grow more rapidly during some seasons, which may impact your mowing schedule.

Depending on what type of grass you grow and if you overseed, as winter turns to spring, you might find your current grass can no longer thrive in the warmer weather. You might thus need to transition your lawn to a different type of grass as the seasons change. A lawn care professional can explain the nuances of this process in greater detail.

Making Common Watering Mistakes

More water isn’t always better for your grass. Overwatering can carry nutrients away from the grass, resulting in the same essential consequences as underwatering.

The average lawn needs about 1.5 inches of water per week during the summer, but only a half inch per week during the winter. A lawn care expert can explain how much water your specific lawn may need based on the type of grass you have.

However, providing your lawn with the right amount of water doesn’t always mean you’re watering it correctly. The water needs time to reach the roots. Water long enough to penetrate the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Choosing the Wrong Type of Grass

An earlier point highlighted the importance of transitioning to a new type of grass as the seasons change. Some homeowners don’t realize they may be using the wrong type of grass for the time of year they’re in.

For example, a sod variety like Midiron may be best for the warmer  months of the year in a climate like Arizona’s. During the winter , you may want to consider overseeding with perennial ryegrass for a dark green color.  One of the new trends for saving water in the winter is to paint your lawn with one of the newly developed pigments that will give your lawn a “real grass” color, without having to mow or water as much.

Speak With a Professional for More Lawn Care Information

The right sod for your lawn, the right schedule for watering, and various other lawn care details can depend on such factors as where you live, what type of visual effect you wish to achieve, and more.

Don’t worry if you make any of these lawn care errors. Homeowners often don’t realize that lawn care is both an art and a science. Fortunately, by coordinating with professionals, you can learn to keep your lawn looking its best for years to come.

If you’re a homeowner, staying on top of lawn care lets you feel proud of your home. If you own a business, an attractive lawn can help you make the right impression on potential customers. According to TK Business Magazine, research shows 95% of customers account for a business’s curb appeal when deciding whether to shop there.

Lawn care is important. However, you may not know whether it’s a task you need to handle yourself. Should you outsource your lawn care to professionals instead?

There’s no one answer to this question. You’ll be better able to determine the right option for you when you consider the pros and cons of outsourcing lawn maintenance.

Advantages of Outsourcing Your Lawn Care

The reasons you might consider hiring professionals to maintain your lawn are numerous. Potential benefits of outsourcing lawn care include:

• Saving time: You might simply be too busy to care for your own lawn. Maintaining a commercial property’s lawn may be particularly time-consuming. Hiring professionals to handle lawn care gives you more freedom to focus on other tasks.

• Avoiding unnecessary expenses: In some instances, spending money is one of the drawbacks of outsourcing your lawn care. However, it’s also important to consider that proper lawn care may require the use of various tools and equipment. Purchasing, storing, and maintaining that equipment yourself isn’t necessary when you hire professionals.

• Achieving ideal results: Lawn care professionals may be more likely to achieve ideal results than you are. Someone who maintains lawns for a living knows techniques to ensure your lawn looks its best.

Also consider that you might have minimal experience with lawn care. Hiring professionals may be easier than learning everything you need to know about lawn maintenance.

Disadvantages of Outsourcing Your Lawn Care

Hiring professionals to maintain your lawn is beneficial in many ways. That said, you might have reasons not to outsource your lawn care. They could include:

• Saving money: As mentioned earlier, outsourcing lawn care may be more cost-effective in the long run. You’ll have to purchase equipment to maintain a lawn on your own. Lawn care can also involve various hidden costs, like costs for specialty products you didn’t know you would need. However, in the short term at least, handling your own lawn care may be more affordable than hiring someone else to.

• Lack of direct involvement: Some property owners feel the need to directly involve themselves in as many property maintenance tasks as they can. They may feel they can take greater pride in a property when they know they’ve helped to maintain it. If you’re such a person, outsourcing your lawn care might feel unfulfilling.

The extent to which you do or don’t benefit from outsourcing lawn care may also depend on what type of property you own. The larger the property, the more you may consider hiring lawn care professionals.

Understand What Lawn Care Involves

When deciding whether to outsource your lawn care or handle it yourself, it’s important to know what thorough lawn upkeep consists of. Tasks and duties lawn care may involve include:

• Irrigation
• Mowing
• Nutrition and fertilization
• Weed and insect control
• Various tasks to transition between seasons

Consider this when making a decision. Most importantly, don’t stress too much! Lawn care is an ongoing process. If you make the “wrong” decision one time, you can always correct your mistake by making the other decision the next time your lawn requires maintenance.

Contact Arizona Sod Producers and Suppliers

Proper lawn maintenance doesn’t always guarantee an attractive lawn. You also need the right sod for your lawn to look its best.

That’s exactly what we at Evergreen Turf offer. Our Arizona sod producers can offer the perfect option for your property. Contact us online today or call us at (480) 456-1199 to learn more.

Did you know that it is possible to provide your lawn with what it needs to thrive and be healthy without the use of pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals?

Organic lawn care is sustainable and green. Literally. It involves the use of alternative solutions for your lawn that are natural and environmentally friendly, yielding luscious green grass. What’s more, it creates a safe space for your entire family (including your pets) to get full enjoyment of your home’s outdoor areas.

Let’s talk about what it takes to make the switch to a healthy, pesticide-free lawn.

Nutrients: The Key to a Green Lawn

A good first step in implementing organic lawn care is to leave the grass clippings behind when you mow. Although it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing lawn care tip, your grass will thank you. These clippings contain nutrients that can be reabsorbed by your lawn if given the opportunity, helping it to blossom.

Without some extra protection from a natural fertilizer, rough periods of heat and stress can lead to its demise, regardless of how many nutritious clippings are left behind.

Take the proactive step to add fertilizer to your lawn that contains ingredients such as:

• Composted turkey and chicken litter
• Seaweed
• Kelp
• Fish emulsion
• Rock phosphate
• Blood meal
• Cottonseed meal
• Azomite
• Ironite

Each has its own contribution and complements one another on the way to creating a lawn that is healthy with a rich green color. For example, the composted litter will increase microbial activity within the soil and help it break down the thatch that’s been left behind. This will allow the nutrients to be absorbed faster.

Azomite and ironite provide micronutrients that give the lawn a burst of color.

Fish emulsion and kelp enhance nitrogen uptake and reduce the impacts of stress. And, blood meal adds slow-release nitrogen whereas cottonseed meal and rock phosphate add phosphorus without harming the environment.

You can seek out a store-bought organic fertilizer option that contains some or all of these things, or create your own so that you know exactly what you are putting on your lawn. Either way, using the right natural fertilizer as part of your organic lawn care can give you fantastic results.

Controlling Weeds Naturally

Unfortunately, as your grass grows, so do weeds. It is best to address these right away before they get out of control and invade the entire yard or threaten any plants. After all, they may be stealing the nutrients from your lawn!

To stick with a natural, organic lawn care routine, you can dismiss weeds by spraying them with vinegar or a combination of vinegar and dish soap. Of course, pulling them is also an effective option, as long as you are careful to pull the root along with it so that they don’t continue to grow.

Getting Rid Bugs and Other Pests Without Insecticide

Bugs and insects love to nestle in your lawn and call it home. And, if allowed, they will continue to grow and expand in population until they are taking up large areas (if not all) of your grass. While you may not want to harm them, you don’t have to give them a free place to stay — especially since they can cause damage to your lawn.

There are natural, eco-friendly steps you can take to deter bugs and other pests from sticking around. For instance, spraying your yard with a batch of water and essential oils can cause the bugs to move out. A few oils to consider for organic lawn care include:

• Rosemary
• Cedarwood oil
• Lemongrass oil
• Lavender
• Peppermint
• Spearmint
• Orange oils

Remember, caring for your lawn naturally is going to require patience. You may have to try a few different oils or a combination to find the right fit for your lawn.

Watering Regularly

Routine lawn care requires water. Yet, organic lawn care means seeking ways to maintain the lawn with as little waste as possible. And this means not using water when you don’t have to.

Monitoring the weather is a great way to know when you don’t have to water your lawn. However, if you reside in certain areas of Arizona, for example, precipitation is low, and rainy days are rare.

Make the most of your efforts by choosing to water your lawn at night. This will reduce the chance of evaporation and allow the ground to soak up most of the water. If you use an irrigation system, set your sprinklers on a timer so that you always water the lawn at the right time and the right duration.

Want to Learn More About Organic Lawn Care?

At Evergreen Turf, we know that good, organic lawn care starts with investing in the right sod.

Contact us online or call us today to learn more.

When it comes to maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn, proper care and attention are key. As a beginner in lawn care, it’s important to understand the essential practices that will help you achieve a lush and vibrant lawn in Phoenix, Arizona. In this article, we will share 10 DIY lawn care tips that are perfect for beginners like you. So, let’s dive in and get started on your journey to a stunning lawn!

1. Maintain a Regular and Frequent Mowing Schedule

Regular mowing is crucial for maintaining a well-groomed lawn. Instead of cutting the grass too short, opt for a little and often approach. This helps to promote healthy growth and prevents scalping, which can damage your lawn.

2. Adjust the Lawnmower’s Cutting Height

Adjust the cutting height on your lawnmower to a higher setting. Taller grass blades provide shade to the soil, reducing weed growth and conserving moisture. Additionally, longer grass blades are better able to withstand the intense heat of Phoenix, Arizona.

3. Keep the Lawn Free of Debris and Clutter

Regularly remove fallen leaves, toys, furniture, and other everyday items from your lawn. These objects can block sunlight and hinder proper air circulation, leading to patchy areas and potential lawn diseases.

Related: How to Repair Dead Spots in Lawn

4. Provide Regular Nutrient Boosts for Your Lawn

Proper nutrition is vital for a healthy lawn. Invest in a high-quality lawn fertilizer suitable for Phoenix’s climate and apply it according to the recommended schedule. This will provide your grass with essential nutrients and help it thrive.

Related: Why and When to Fertilize Your Lawn

5. Train Pets to Avoid Using the Lawn as a Restroom

Pet waste can damage your lawn and leave unsightly brown patches. Train your pets to use a designated area and promptly clean up any waste. Regularly rinsing the area with water can also help dilute and minimize the impact of urine.

Related: Tips for Landscaping with Dogs

6. Enhance Soil Health Through Annual Lawn Aeration

Aerating your lawn involves creating small holes in the soil to improve water, air, and nutrient penetration. This process helps alleviate soil compaction and promotes healthier root growth. Aim to aerate your lawn at least once a year, preferably during the cooler months.

Related: How to Aerate Your Lawn & Why You Should

7. Remove Thatch and Moss with Seasonal Scarification

Scarifying is the process of raking or using a scarifying machine to remove dead grass, thatch, and moss from your lawn’s surface. This allows better airflow and prevents disease. Perform scarification once or twice a year to maintain a healthy lawn.

Related: The Best Time to Dethatch Your Lawn

8. Enhance Your Lawn’s Density with Strategic Overseeding

Overseeding involves spreading new grass seed over existing turf to fill in bare patches and improve the overall density of your lawn. Choose a seed mix suitable for Phoenix’s climate and overseed in the fall  for the best results.

9. Optimize Sunlight Exposure for a Thriving Lawn

Ensure that your lawn receives the maximum amount of sunlight possible. Trim back overhanging branches and prune nearby shrubs to allow ample sunlight to reach your grass. Sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis and helps your lawn grow strong and healthy.

10. Persevere Through Unexpected Challenges from Mother Nature

In Phoenix, Arizona, weather conditions can be challenging for lawn care. From scorching heat to occasional droughts, it’s important to adapt and persevere. If your lawn faces setbacks due to weather or other factors, seek advice, make adjustments, and stay committed to your lawn care routine.

Achieving a beautiful lawn in Phoenix, Arizona is within your reach! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, Evergreen Turf is here to support your lawn care journey. Browse our website to explore our high-quality sod options and take the first step toward a lush and vibrant lawn. Invest in your lawn’s future with Evergreen Turf today.

Remember, with the right knowledge and care, your lawn can become the envy of the neighborhood. Implement these 10 DIY lawn care tips, stay consistent, and watch your lawn flourish under the Arizona sun.

Springtime in Phoenix, Arizona, is an excellent time to give your lawn the care it needs to thrive throughout the year. With proper lawn care, you can ensure that your lawn is healthy, lush, and vibrant. Here are some tips for spring lawn care in Phoenix to help you achieve a beautiful lawn.

Begin with a soil test

Before you start any lawn care activities, getting a soil test is essential. A soil test will tell you your soil’s pH level and the nutrients it lacks. In Phoenix, Arizona, the soil is typically alkaline, with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the soil’s pH is between 6.0 and 7.5. You can purchase a soil test kit at your local garden center or have your soil tested professionally. A soil test will help you determine what fertilizers to use and how much water your lawn needs.

Aerate your lawn

Phoenix, Arizona, has a desert climate, which means the soil is often compacted. A compacted soil makes it difficult for water and nutrients to reach the roots of your grass. To fix this problem, you should aerate your lawn. Aerating involves removing small plugs of soil from your lawn, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots more easily. You can rent an aerator or hire a professional to do it for you.

Dethatch your lawn

Thatch is a layer of dead grass and debris that accumulates on the surface of your lawn. Too much thatch can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots of your grass. You can remove thatch from your lawn by using a dethatching rake or a power dethatcher. A power dethatcher will do the job much faster than a rake, but it can be expensive to rent or buy.

Fertilize your lawn

Fertilizing your lawn is crucial to its health and growth. In Phoenix, Arizona, it’s best to use a slow-release fertilizer that will provide your grass with a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season. Choose a fertilizer with low nitrogen and high potassium content, as this will help your grass tolerate Phoenix’s hot, dry climate. You should apply fertilizer to your lawn in early spring when your grass begins to green up. Be sure to follow the fertilizer package instructions and not over-fertilize your lawn.

Water your lawn deeply

Phoenix is known for its hot and dry climate, so watering your lawn is crucial. You should water your lawn deeply and infrequently, allowing the water to penetrate the soil deeply. Watering your lawn too frequently can lead to shallow root growth, making your grass more susceptible to drought and disease. It’s best to water your lawn in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler, and there’s less evaporation.

Mow your lawn regularly

Mowing your lawn regularly is essential to keep it healthy and looking good. When you mow your lawn, you should never cut off more than one-third of the grass blade. Cutting too much grass at once can weaken your grass and make it more susceptible to disease. You should also keep your mower blades sharp to ensure a clean cut.

Control weeds

Weeds are a common problem in Phoenix, Arizona, but you can control them by using a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring. A pre-emergent herbicide will prevent weeds from germinating and taking root in your lawn. If you already have weeds in your lawn, you can use a post-emergent herbicide to kill them. Be sure to follow the instructions on the herbicide package, and avoid using too much, as it can harm your grass.

Consider overseeding

Overseeding is the process of planting grass seed over your existing lawn. It’s a great way to fill in your lawn’s thin or patchy areas and promote healthy growth. In Phoenix, Arizona, it’s best to overseed your lawn in the fall, but you can also do it in the spring. Be sure to choose a grass seed that’s well-suited for Phoenix’s hot and dry climate.

Hire a professional

If you don’t have the time or expertise to care for your lawn, consider hiring a professional. A lawn care professional can help you with everything from fertilizing and watering to mowing and aerating your lawn. They can also advise you on the best lawn care practices for your specific needs.

Take care of your equipment

Finally, it’s essential to take care of your lawn care equipment. Sharpen your mower blades regularly to ensure a clean cut, and clean your equipment after each use to prevent rust and corrosion. Also, be sure to store your equipment in a cool, dry place during the off-season.

In conclusion, you can have a beautiful and healthy lawn in Phoenix, Arizona with proper care and attention. Following these tips lets you keep your lawn looking its best throughout the year. Remember to start with a soil test, aerate and dethatch your lawn, fertilize and water it properly, mow it regularly, control weeds, consider overseeding, hire a professional if needed, and take care of your equipment. With these steps, you’ll have a lawn that’s the envy of your neighborhood.

Evergreen Turf offers a wide selection of sod grass varieties perfectly suited for Arizona’s climate. Whether you wish to sod a small play area for the family or an entire golf course, Evergreen Turf can help you make it happen. Contact us today.

A well-maintained lawn can level up your home’s exterior. Unfortunately, lawns don’t stay vibrant and lush all on their own. Without consistent TLC, your lawn may start to look patchy, yellow, or dry.

If your lawn is lacking its luster, you may be wondering what you can do about it. Depending on the degree of your lawn’s deterioration, a full-blown lawn renovation may be in order.

So, how can you tell if it’s time to renovate your lawn? Below, we’ll break down the major causes of turf deterioration and explain when you should consider a lawn renovation.

7 Major Causes of Turf Deterioration

Before you renovate your lawn, it’s a good idea to find out why it looks unhealthy in the first place. This way, you can solve the problem and keep it from happening again, preventing the need for repeated renovations.

Lawns may start to deteriorate for the following reasons:

1. Poor lawn management – Lawns need to be mowed, fertilized and irrigated regularly to stay green and healthy. If your lawn care has fallen to the wayside, that may be the cause of its decline.

   On the flip side, over-watering or excess fertilization can also cause issues. Too much water can cause your turf’s roots to rot, while excess fertilizer can lead to unsightly “fertilizer burn” and root damage.

2. Excessive thatch – Thatch is a tightly-packed layer of decomposed stems, leaves, and roots that can build up between your grass and its soil. Some amount of thatch is unavoidable.

   However, excessive thatch can create a claustrophobic environment for your turf’s roots. In turn, they may not get enough water, air, or fertilizer, even if you’re diligently providing them during your lawn maintenance routine.

3. Weeds, insects, and diseases – Over time, your turf may get attacked by pesky weeds, insects, and diseases. Weeds harm turf by sucking up its nutrients. Meanwhile, pests attack turf by nibbling at its blades and roots.
4. Poor soil quality – The quality of your soil can make or break your lawn’s appearance. Poor soil may be acidic, infertile, compacted, or lacking in essential microorganisms. You can have your soil tested at a local soil testing lab to evaluate its health.
5. Inadequate sunlight – Not all types of turfs thrive in shaded locations. If your lawn lacks direct sunlight, you may need to remove or prune the surrounding trees and shrubs to let more rays shine through.
6. Improper species selection – Not all turfgrass species are adapted to every climate. If your turf still looks rough after adhering to meticulous maintenance practices, it may simply be ill-suited for your location.
7. Dog urine – If your furry friend frequently pees on your lawn, it can cause unsightly spots. Some species of turf are more resistant to dog urine than others.

Getting to the root of your lawn’s issue can be tricky. Fortunately, a lawn care specialist can diagnose the issue and suggest the best path forward.

When to Renovate Your Lawn

Sometimes, you can repair small portions of your lawn by re-seeding it or optimizing your lawn care regime. Most high quality warm season lawns are hybrids and cannot be grown from seed.  These will need to be plugged or sodded. However, if more than 25% of your lawn is deteriorating, it’s probably time to renovate.

Lawn Renovation Considerations

One of the most important things to consider before you renovate your lawn is the time of year. Lawn renovations should be done when the lawn can recover the quickest. If you live in Arizona, it’s best to do your work in late spring or early summer.  This gives your lawn the rest of the summer to recover and get fully healthy before winter.

Sprinkler System Check-up:  The number one cause of lawn problems in Arizona is poor irrigation coverage.  Check your system for proper head coverage, good pressure, and leaks.  A good sprinkler system will also save water!

Aeration:  Aeration is a mechanical practice that pull small cores from your soil.  This helps alleviate compaction, and will also help mitigate thatch build up.  Compaction tends to be a problem in high traffic areas wear dogs and kids play, or where people walk or stand frequently in the lawn.

De-thatching:  Thatch is an accumulation of old leaves and stems from your lawn.  Too much thatch will cause the lawn to repel water, or slow your water from penetrating the soil.  Excess thatch can also be a host to many insects.  Excess thatch will also make your lawn too soft and cause your lawnmower to “scalp” your lawn when you mow. You can rent a machine to dethach, or even vigorously rake an area to remove the thatch.

Next, you should determine if any nearby vegetation will compete with your fresh turf for space and soil nutrients. If you suspect it may, you might want to pull some weeds or apply herbicides.

Lastly, you should make sure that you plant a type of turf that’s properly adapted to your climate, especially if your old turf wasn’t. Not sure which type of turf is right for you? Try Evergreen Turf’s lawn selector guide to help you.

Evergreen Turf: Renovate Your Lawn With Premier Arizona Sod

If you’re longing for greener grass, Evergreen Turf can make it happen. We’re a premier producer of Arizona sod. Our sod grass has been used to refresh residential yards, elite golf courses, and all kinds of green spaces in between.

All of our sod grass varieties grow beautifully in Arizona, so you can rest assured you’re getting a grass type that’s right for your climate.

Are you ready to refresh your lawn? Reach out to Evergreen Turf today.

If you’re searching online for “sod installation near me,” it’s obvious you’re considering upgrading your lawn. This is the best choice for you if you want to have a quick, easy and affordable lawn without the hassle of learning everything from scratch. We all know how busy a person’s life can be and you might not always have the time and energy to take care of your own lawn. If you’re still not sold on hiring professionals for the job, here’s why you should leave your sod installation to the professionals.

Why You Should Let the Pros Install Your Sod:

• Weekends are meant for play and fun, not worrying about what to do about your lawn. Evergreen Turf will do the worrying for you and will be there to install the same day your sod is delivered
• Evergreen Turf is the best professional sod company in Arizona. We have a team of highly skilled craftsmen with years of experience in sod installations. You can rest easy knowing that your lawn will be taken care of by people who know what they are doing and produce the best lawn you and your family deserve.
• An added difficulty of installing a lawn yourself is when there are other elements on your property such as sprinkler heads, decorations, and walkways. Doing it yourself can be tiring without getting the result you want. Those other elements in your yard need expert precision and skill to cut around to avoid damage to the sod as well as minimize the scrap
• Installing sod is not as simple as just putting on the layer of sod and waiting. It takes skilled craftsmen to make sure that the sod is properly installed with no patches or spots that are less attractive. Evergreen Turf crews will roll the sod and ensure that there is good soil contact for the sod to take hold as well as apply the starter fertilizer to increase the chances of your sod successfully rooting quickly.
• With professionals, you get what you pay for. You won’t have to worry about Evergreen Turf’s crew, they do this every day. You can sit back and enjoy. Please note, we do not perform work outside the terms of the contract which includes prep work, sprinkler work or rototilling.

Types of Sod You Can Buy at Evergreen Turf:

Midiron

This is the grass of choice in Arizona. It is an attractive and low-maintenance lawn that is perfect for busy people who still want to have a beautiful lawn they can enjoy without too much hassle. The grass itself has a medium-coarse leaf texture with a refreshing blue-green color. It is an excellent plant that transitions well from winter over-seeding and recovers quickly from people stepping on it. It can be maintained with a reel mower or a sharp rotary mower. It has a mowing height of 3/4″ to 1 1/2″.

Keep in mind that Midiron has low shade tolerance, which means it is perfect for a lawn that is under the sun. Also, it is a much sturdier grass than others with moderate salinity tolerance and will always be suitable for Arizona weather with its good drought tolerance.

Tifway 419

• Tifway 419 is the lawn of choice for professional sports fields and golf courses. It is preferred to other Bermuda grass because of its ability to recover from damage from constant and heavy use. This variety has extraordinary durability and a beautiful dark green color and medium-fine texture. This grass is an excellent choice for lawns that will be seeing constant use. This variety can be cut using a sharp rotary motor or a reel motor for a manicured look.

It is the perfect lawn if it is constantly exposed to sunlight but will have difficulty if placed in a mostly shaded area. It is also moderately tolerant to salinity and will be able to grow even if the area it is placed in has salt and is an excellent variant for hot regions. It has a mowing height of 1/2” to 1 1/2″.

Tifgreen328

• This variety of grass has a bright green color and a very fine texture. Initially developed for use in golf courses, it is the perfect choice if you want a manicured appearance for your lawn. Its beauty is the primary reason why it is used in expensive golf courses and it is the perfect choice if you want the same quality lawn for your home. It can be mowed with a sharp rotary mower but you can find the best results when you use a reel mower.

This variety also has a fair damage recovery rating that is still hardy compared to other grasses with poor shade tolerance, which is perfect for a lawn that gets lots of sunlight. It has a moderate salinity tolerance which means it’s not as susceptible to moderate concentrations of salt in the soil. It has a fair drought tolerance which means that it needs a little bit more water than the varieties we have discussed so far.

TifGrand

• TifGrand Bermuda is a product of scientific development and boasts a 60% resistance to shade and requires only about 4-5 hours of direct sunlight. Although it requires a more difficult maintenance routine in full sun conditions, TifGrand is an excellent variety for a lawn, especially because it has a fine texture and a beautiful dark green color. It can be mowed using a reel or a shaft rotary mower at the height of 1/2” to 1 ½” height.

This variety has a fair damage recovery rating and a moderate salinity tolerance. It is also rated fair for drought tolerance. It is a less sturdy variety overall but it is tolerant to shade which means you don’t have to worry too much about this variety dying if they don’t get the right amount of sunlight which is important if you plan to have a lot of shade in your lawn.

Palmetto St. Augustine

• This variety is the best performer in shady conditions and is highly recommended by the Evergreen Turf crew. This variety is a semi-dwarf variety of St. Augustine grass and thrives in both sunlight, shade, and heat. It has a coarse texture with soft leaves that makes it comfortable to lie on if you just want to relax and on the grass.

It also has a bright green color, perfect for that pleasantly eye-catching shade of green people look for on a lawn. However, it requires a little bit more care since it should not be overseeded during the winter. If you want to mow this grass, it is recommended that you use a Reel or sharp rotary mower at a height of 1 1/2″ to 3” for best results.

TifTuf

• TifTuf is the best hybrid bermudagrass you will ever encounter regarding drought tolerance. This means that it can go longer without being watered. It is developed by the University of Georgia Research Program and is among the best strains they were able to produce. It has fine texture with a dark green color and can survive with 30% less water than the best hybrid Bermuda grass currently in the market today. It has a similar look to Tifway but is a sturdier variety and improved color during the winter. It also has the added benefit of being able to green up quicker when spring comes than other strains of grass.

For best results, you should mow this grass with a reel mower or a sharp rotary mower at a height of 1/2″ to 1 1/2″. It has a good salinity tolerance and fair shade tolerance with high damage recovery.

No need to search any further for sod installation near you. Contact Evergreen Turf today and get back to enjoying your weekend while we take care of all the hard work. The lawn of your dreams is just one call away!