Winter Lawn Care Tips

Fall is upon us and with winter just around the corner, now is the time to start preparing your lawn for the harsh and cold months.  Some homeowners don't realize the importance of prepping the grass for the following year, so take a look at these tips to get the most out of each blade!

-       Clean The Lawn

It is a disservice to your lawn when you end up leaving debris on it such as leaves, branches, toys and other items that can smother the grass.  Not only can debris create various diseases, but it can also invite other pests such as insects and rodents to the area, creating even more destruction.  Clear you lawn as much as possible!

-       Lower Your Lawnmower Blade

The last several times you mow your lawn for the year, lower the blade by a half inch to an inch.  Grass that is too long can be more at risk for freezing and thawing conditions. However, do not cut it so short that the crown of each blade is exposed; this can be just as damaging.

-       Create Spike Holes

Utilize a specific aerator tool or a garden fork, and spike holes throughout the lawn to allow for the surface to be aerated.   This is an excellent way to also improve drainage during thaws!

-       Fill the Holes

Once you create the holes, fill them with horticultural grain sand to prevent them from closing, and to allow both air and water to move freely throughout. 

-       Spread Dressing

Use a dry top-dressing and spread it over the remainder of the grass to help with drainage and to fill in any low spots throughout the lawn.  A rake works well to spread it evenly over the grass.

These steps will help your lawn to survive throughout the winter, and will ultimately make it ready for irrigation.  If you are in New Jersey, contact a professional lawn care and irrigation company to get the most out of each blade of grass!

Preparing Your Home for Summer

Spring is officially here, meaning it's time to start preparing your yard for the approaching warm weather. From activating your sprinkler system to planting spring flowers, many people are beginning to prepare their home for the new season. Steeplechase Irrigation began performing spring openings in mid-March – the ideal time to re-activate or install your sprinkler system. 

At your spring opening, our trained NJ irrigation technicians will: 

•                    Activate your sprinkler system

•                    Pressurize the Back Flow Preventer and check for any leaks

•                    Test all zone lines

•                    Test Rain Sensor

•                    Inspect and adjust all sprinkler heads

•                    Check that all heads have the proper positioning

Aside from activating your sprinkler system, there are few more things you can do to prepare your home for summer. In order to get the most use out of your backyard, you should begin to break out the outdoor furniture such as chairs and picnic tables, as well as a grill – perfect for your next barbeque. You may also opt to plant some spring flowers to make your home look bright and charming both in the front and back yard. 

This is also the perfect time to fix any repairs that have been sitting this winter, such as issues relating to roofing, insulation, caulking, and your air conditioning system. You'll also want to switch any heavy flannel sheets to lighter, cotton sheets and replace dark heavy drapes with something to let the light in. From the interiors of your home to the exterior, getting your home ready for spring will ensure you’ll be ready to enjoy the warmer weather once it hits.