When you’re sick, you load up on the vitamin C, arm yourself with a box of tissues and a bowl of soup then get into bed for a binge session of TV. It’s clear to see you’ve got the self-care routine nailed, but what about the care routine for your lawn? What do you do when it’s sick, suffering, and feeling a little under the weather? While you can’t feed it soup, you can make sure it has plenty of the following goodies.

Grass 

Have you heard of grasscycling? It’s the process of reusing your lawn clippings by leaving them on your lawns. Not only do you save yourself the labour-intensive task of emptying the catcher, but your lawn benefits as well.

Grass clippings decompose quickly and also give your lawns much-needed nutrients. Grass clippings are also a natural type of mulch, helping your lawns to retain water that it might need at a later date. What’s more, it improves the texture of your soil and may mean you don’t need to rely on any fertilisers. Lawn mowing could be easier than ever before if you take up this new practice! 

Water

If your lawns are looking a little bit worse for wear, but you can’t put your finger on the problem, then evaluate your watering process. You may think you’re doing your grass a favour by turning on your sprinkler for a few minutes at a time, but that might not be helping. To encourage your grass roots to grow deeper, you should water for long periods, but infrequently.  

Apply around 2.5 centimetres of water to your lawn once per week and use an electronic tester to test the soil moisture. Add more water once 7-10 centimetres of topsoil is dry to touch. The long but infrequent method means your grass stays greener during times of drought – all thanks to the longer root structures. 

Compost

You might think that compost is only suitable for your gardens, but it’s exceptional for ailing lawns as well. It makes it far greener than it may have ever been before. It’s worthwhile to learn how to make compost out of your your grass clippings and kitchen waste so that you can use it while you’re gardening and lawn mowing. Compost also helps with water drainage in sandy soils, stimulates root growth, reduces soil-borne diseases, and balances the pH levels of your soil. 

Corn Gluten Meal

If you know your lawn is sick, but you’re not all that enthralled about the idea of herbicides and fertiliser, then go natural with corn gluten meal. This product, which you can even buy in your local supermarket, is a natural herbicide for organic crops and turf grass. It will also act as a soil fertiliser. 

Corn gluten meal is a natural byproduct of corn’s wet-milling process and will also take care of annual weeds (to a degree). 

Air

Nutrient absorption is a common problem that homeowners face with their lawns. How are you supposed to ensure it’s getting all the goodies when it’s so compacted and hard? Give your lawn some air. Use aerator shoes or a garden fork to prod holes into the surface. The holes can be around five centimetres deep and up to 20 centimetres apart. 

 Compacted soil is a significant issue. It can cause drainage problems and restricts grass growth as well. If you aerate it, your grass has a better chance of being healthier and more luscious than ever before. 

Seeds

If the kids have gone wild over summer with their games of swingball and rugby, then you’ll probably discover you’ve got a few bald patches. These can take some time to recover, and you may even need a lawn care expert’s help to revive it. 

Otherwise, you can sow new seeds during spring and autumn. Water the area well, sow the seeds, then water again once shoots appear (but not before!). Talk to a gardening or lawn care expert if you require a helping hand. 

 Conclusion

People take for granted that their lawns will always look and be healthier. However, many things can stop them in their tracks. Drought conditions, flooding, wear, weeds, pests, and some chemicals may all cause your grass to suffer. Rather than let it succumb to its illness, feed it and bring it back to full health. These options above may be all it takes to give your grass a new lease on life. 

No one will ever be able to achieve the perfect lawn. As soon as you get it looking like a bowling green, that pesky poa or blasted broadleaf makes its way in, ruining everything. 

Here in New Zealand, we have some of the best growing conditions for weeds. While it would be nice to call that an achievement, it means we’re fighting a losing battle against common lawn weeds. Fortunately, it won’t always be a battle you can’t win. There are plenty of lawn care services to help you win the war, with advice to triumph in the initial fight below too. 

Below, we run through some of the most common lawn weeds in New Zealand and what you can do about them. 

Poa 

Poa, annual meadow grass, or annual bluegrass, is a pesky weed that offers no end of trouble to homeowners. Those who take pride in their lawns will be seeing red once poa takes up residence among the perfectly mown grass. 

Poa is a winter grass that’s temperamental and susceptible to disease. Once it grows on your lawns, it can die and leave ugly brown marks that are a challenge to regrow. It’s also quite common with new lawns as it doesn’t have to fight other lawn weeds for its share of the area. 

What does it look like? 

Poa is light green with crinkly, soft leaves. It blends in with your lawns, but has white seed heads and can be a lighter shade of green than your lawns. 

How do I control it? 

Poa happily kills itself off but leaves your lawn looking terrible. If you maintain a healthy lawn programme, you will eventually eradicate it for good. 

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Image courtesy Rasbak

Broadleaf

Broadleaf is the name of several lawn weeds that fall under the description of having a broad leaf. Such examples could be thistles, dandelions, daisies, dock, pearlwort, and dichondra. To get quite specific, Onehunga and clover could also be a broadleaf weed. 

What does it look like? 

Any broadleaf weed that’s taking over your lawn has broad leaves. They are wide and flat and stand out from your lawn. 

How do I control it? 

Fortunately, several different herbicides will target broadleaf weeds in your garden without killing off your lawn. However, it’s in your best interests to talk to gardening and lawn experts about what they would recommend. Each broadleaf weed will react differently to herbicides, and you must know which broadleaf weed you have. 

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Onehunga Weed

Most Kiwi children have less than fond memories with Onehunga in their lawns. One minute you’re running along with bare feet, the next you’re in tears because prickles are sticking out of your toes. Onehunga is what most people call ‘prickles’. When it’s fresh, it’s soft and comfortable to walk on. When it’s dying, it’s hard, spiky, and ready to cause damage to skin.

What does it look like? 

Onehunga is small, spindly, and tricky to spot. It can be green, to begin with, but dries out to brown once it reaches the end of its lifespan.

How do I control it? 

You can spray Onehunga. Talk to your local gardening expert about what to use and when to do it. 

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Image John D. Byrd

Clover

If you’re a farmer, you’ll love clover. But if you’re a homeowner, you’ll be trying to get rid of it. Clover can take over quickly and is one of the most common lawn weeds in the country. It’s also a legume, which is why farmers love feeding it to their livestock. When it takes over your lawn, it’s slippery to walk on and attracts bees.

What does it look like? 

Clover has three leaves and white flowers. Sometimes, it has four leaves – which you can consider to be good luck! 

How do I control it? 

On a farm, let the cows in for dinner! For a household, take to it with herbicide. You can control clover with specific products from the garden store. 

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 Moss

Moss isn’t overly invasive, but it can still be a nuisance lawn weed. If there is shade and moisture on your lawn, you’ll find moss nearby. It will cover the ground and lawn and be quite slippery to walk on. It also allows other more aggressive weeds to take hold. Moss also spreads quickly.

What does it look like?

Moss covers the ground with a spongy base and no leaves, roots, or stems. It absorbs moisture and nutrients from the bottom. When it dies, it leaves bald patches on your lawn.

How do I control it?

You can spray moss. Alternatively, try and remove the source of it. Where possible, allow plenty of sunlight on your lawn and fix drainage problems. 

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Weeds are a problem for anyone in any country. Here in New Zealand, however, we are blessed with several hundred varieties that can cause all kinds of headaches. Listed above are a few of the more common lawn weeds that probably grace your lawns right now. Head outside and take a look. You’re now armed with the right information to take care of them for good. 

With the warmer weather well and truly here, many New Zealand families have been using the old cricket set and enjoying the lawns for another successful backyard sports season. For the best chance of beating old uncle George who claims he played for the Black Caps, you are going to need your lawns to be in the best shape of their life. This process takes time, and sometimes expert help.

As most people know from first-hand experience, lawn mowing takes up a significant part of our summer months. We will probably spend around 80 hours a year doing it, even if it’s also one of the least liked chores – as voted by the American public. It’s fair to say us Kiwis will think along the same lines. That’s why many people prefer to leave such tasks in the capable hands of experts – offering more time to prepare for that coveted Christmas cricket game, and less time covered in freshly mown grass.

Another reason why many people decide to hire a lawn care expert for lawn mowing in Auckland and further afield is that they know they are not knowledgeable on how to care for grass properly. If, however, you wouldn’t mind learning a trick or two, we’ve compiled our best advice below. It doesn’t matter whether you are lawn mowing in Kapiti, Otago, or anywhere else in the country, this advice will always apply.

Less is More

The adage of “less is more” applies to many things in life, and even applies to lawn mowing and tree trimming as well. If you want your lawns to make it through a potentially hot and dry summer, then don’t mow them to within an inch of their life.

If you are going on holiday over Christmas, then you will probably think that the shorter you mow them, the more manageable they will be when you get home. Unfortunately, you are actually doing more harm than good. Aim for one-third of the grass blade every time you mow to keep them in healthy condition.

If you cut them short for your convenience, you can stunt their growth while not allowing them to survive through the big pile of clippings. By leaving them a little longer, however, their roots are healthier, enabling them to seek deeper in the ground for more water to keep them alive. You may have to battle through lawn mowing more often (unlike winter), but your gardens will look better for it.

Sharpen Up

If you prefer to take care of the lawn mowing services yourself, instead of letting experts take care of the hard work, then there’s something you need to know before you haul the mower out of the shed. Keep the blades sharp. Think about what happens when you try to cut a tomato with a butter knife. The tomato flattens, squishes, and you end up with a mashed-up mess. The same can happen when you’re lawnmowing in Christchurch or anywhere with normally luscious lawns.

As soon as that blade hits the grass, it shreds and mashes it, leaving a poor quality cut every time. It also leaves room for diseases to take up residence, potentially ruining your lawn for good. If your mower has been sitting dormant for some months, it might be time to give it a service or call in a lawn mowing expert to take care of business.

The Science of Watering

If you’re lawn mowing in Nelson, Otago, Hawkes Bay, or anywhere else that’s prone to dry spells over summer, then you will be familiar with watering your lawn. If you’re not one to let it sit dry and half-dead, and you don’t live somewhere with water restrictions in place, then it will also be a regular part of your routine as lawn mowing is. However, do you know whether you’re doing it right?

The best summer lawn advice we can offer for your lawn mowing needs is the best time to water your lawns and why. If you want to give them a fighting chance of survival, aim to water them before 10am – before the intense sun kicks in and burns everything and everyone to a crisp. Watering at this time gives your lawn the opportunity to absorb that water into its roots, instead of having it rudely evaporated and taken away by the sun.

 If you’re more interested in playing backyard swing ball and cricket rather than mowing your lawns and maintaining them, then that’s okay too. You can disregard all the advice above and leave lawncare to an expert who can make your grounds looking stunning year-round. Did you know they can take care of your gardens and trees too? Get back to doing more of what you love!

Get in touch with Crewcut to see what kind of lawn care you need during the summer months.

Have you been looking over the neighbour’s fence with envy, wondering how they managed to have their lawns looking like a bowling green but yours looks like a rolling paddock? Not everyone has a backyard of which they can be proud, but that doesn’t mean you never will. You don’t have to put up with a dry lawn, or a weed-ridden lawn forever.

Regular lawn mowing, lawn care, and maintenance can be all it takes to see your grass patch in tip-top shape for summer. It can also be the difference between lawns that merely survive, or actually thrive. You can call in the experts who can take care of the arduous lawn mowing for you, or you can take note of these summer lawn care tips below! It’s time to take better care of your lawn!

Level it Out

Not everyone is blessed with a flat lawn that doesn’t threaten a rolled ankle or two every time you head out to hang up the washing. However, when you want to crank out the backyard cricket, it becomes necessary. Uneven lawns aren’t only a safety risk; they can also make lawn mowing more challenging than it needs to be. You can end up with grass cut too short in some areas but not short enough in others, and inset areas filled with water when the rain makes an unwelcome appearance.

Take care of your lawn by levelling it out. You may need expert help for this, as well as help with drainage and filling hollows with sand, compost, and topsoil.

Let it Breathe

Compacted soil can be a bit of a problem in your backyard. Worms can’t make their way through your dirt, and water and air have a bit of a battle as well. Compacted soil is caused by dirt that’s so compacted together that nothing can get through. When nothing can get through, your grass and soil are not getting the nutrients, air, and water it needs to thrive and survive.

You may think that there’s not a lot you can do about this, but you can! Fortunately, you can also do it just in time for summer fun. For a small lawn, all you need to do is buy slip-on aeration shoes and walk around your lawn. These shoes feature spikes which add space into the dirt for light, air, and water to penetrate. For larger lawns, you may like to hire a gas-powered aeration tool that can take care of it far quicker. If all else fails, chat to lawn care experts who know the ins and outs of all things grass-related!

Mower Maintenance

It doesn’t matter whether you have a dry lawn, regular lawn, or long lawns, you are going to need to maintain your mower for the task! And, considering wintry weather sees it locked up for months at a time, that time for maintenance couldn’t come soon enough! If you don’t want to waste your time fiddling around with small parts and fluids, then it’s a perfect opportunity to ask someone for lawn mowing services. Otherwise, consider these steps for mower maintenance below.

1. Overall Inspection

When you bring your mower out of hibernation, give it a quick once-over look. Clean it, tighten or replace bolts, and use rust-kill chemicals to stop rust in its tracks. If you notice any frayed connections or wires, repair these too.

2. Check the Spark Plugs

If you are about to undergo maintenance to your mower, remember to disconnect the spark plugs. If you are firing it up to use it and it doesn’t go, you may need to replace them.

3. Check the Blades

When was the last time you changed or sharpened the blades? If you can’t remember, it’s probably long overdue. Buy new blades or get an expert to sharpen the ones you have now.

4. Check or Replace the Air Filter

Air filters can get clogged up over time which can affect the mower’s performance. If you are doing your own lawn care, stay on top of these smaller details.

5.  Complete an Oil Change

If you have a four-stroke mower, you will need to change the oil at least once per year.

6. Check the Fuel

If you don’t want to run into problems with your mower not starting because of stale fuel, then start it up once a month. If you think you think you will forget, an ethanol-free gas or a fuel stabilizer may help to make starting it up after winter less of a problem.

Careful Cutting

Many people cut their lawns short over summer to avoid coming back to a meter-high paddock on their return from a holiday. However, cutting them short is doing more harm than good! Much of what your grass needs to survive is in the tip, so the less of the tip you have, the harder it is for it to survive. Instead, you end up with a dying or dry lawn that takes months to recover.

Water It

During summer, your lawns are bound to not get enough moisture. When they don’t, they can lie dormant, and you have a dry lawn of which you’re not very proud! Get that vibrant, green lawn you’ve always wanted by keeping on top of watering. Use a timed sprinkler or water your patch of lawn daily (before 10 am for the best chance of absorption). Your lawns will need around one or two inches of water per week to thrive.

If you’re time poor, with not enough hours in the day for proper lawn care and lawn mowing, then leave it to the experts! You can then come home to a freshly mown lawn that always looks at its best. Get in touch with your local Crewcut operator to make sure your lawn looks great this summer.

If you love your lawn, you either need to roll up your sleeves and start that mower yourself, or you'll need to find someone awesome to do it for you. You might really love taking care of your lawn, but there's no doubt there's lots to do.  It will need mowing, fertilising, fixing, pruning and trimming - and if you don't love it or you just don't have the time, it's a serious chore.

If you'd prefer someone else got dirty instead, you'll need to pick a business that can be trusted with the important task of loving your lawn and garden even more than you do.  You'll need to pick the best lawn mowing business you can find. But who?

Franchise or independent - How to decide?

When it comes to picking a lawn mowing business, you'll discover that there are two main options.  There are independent operators, and those who are part of a bigger franchise model. It's perhaps no surprise that, here at Crewcut, we believe passionately that a franchise business is a much wiser pick by the discerning customer.

So let's explore why we think, as a customer, you should pick a franchise lawn mowing business over an independent operator:

1. Business practices

When you call a lawn mowing franchise, you know you're dealing with a trusted brand. To start operating a franchise model in the first place, a company needs to have a solid business and a reputable brand.  It means that from the minute they rock up at your place, you know they know what they're doing - charging prices that are sustainable and operating with practices that are tried and tested.

2. Training

A major point of difference between a franchise and an independent operator is the training they've received. In short, the independent guy might not have received any training at all!  But a franchise business can rely on a structure that gives not only training but round the clock practical advice, so you know the person mowing your lawns knows what they're doing.

3. Safety

When you choose an independent lawn mowing business, are you really sure your property and your family are safe?

Because the franchise operator is running under a bigger umbrella, you can be sure they are fully up to speed with those health and safety codes.  It keeps not just the operator but also your property and family safe and sound at all times.

4. Public liability

When that independent lawn mowing guy arrives at your place, are you positive they have all of the right insurance policies in place to protect you?

With a franchise option, you can rest easy.  Franchises recognise that public liability is the most vital type of insurance for a business, and it means customers and their premises are completely covered.

5. Services

While an independent operator will most certainly offer mowing, you might have a little more on your mind.  And it's the franchise that will offer a range of lawn mowing services across the spectrum.

We're talking hedges, garden tidy ups, tree trimming, and even water blasting and services in commercial settings.  Whatever you need, there's a franchise guy who can offer it!

6. Peace of mind

As we discussed earlier, a franchise lawn mowing business is just the safer option from every point of view.  But how do you know that? Because you've done your homework!

Because a franchise business is based on a tried and tested model, you can research all about the company and its reputation before you make the selection, knowing that the quality service promised and the price offered will be delivered.  And if something goes wrong, you've got an option to step up your query to the next level.

7. Equipment

There are plenty of independent operators around the place who are simply scraping by.  A big reason for this is that they're all alone in the world in terms of building a reputation and getting customers.

That's not the case for your franchise guy!  They are keeping overheads low, business methods slick and always have a steady stream of customers.  It means they can afford to keep their gear perfectly up to date and maintained properly, rather than an independent operator who is struggling simply to fill the diary.

8. Service

Ok, so you may find an independent lawn mower that you really love.  But don't forget that he's basically a sole trader - meaning that when he's sick, your lawns don't get mowed!

As a franchise is part of a big network of similar businesses, when problems strike, there will always be someone else who could pick up the slack.

9. Quality

Finally, there's that all-important issue when it comes to your lawns: How good a job will be done? While it's true that there are plenty of good independent operators around, if you want a guarantee of quality, you should be looking closely at the franchises.  Why?  Because they're delivering for a brand which relies on quality and satisfaction to thrive.

The final word: Back a franchise!

Yes, you might have found a lawn mowing guy who has the oldest equipment and drives an old truck - but you love him!  The moral of the story is that businesses come in all shapes and sizes, so it's up to you to do your homework and make as wise a decision as possible. And if you're lacking time for that process of due diligence, reach for the franchise option.  You won't regret your choice - and neither will your lawn!

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If you’re looking at your neighbour’s bowling green-like lawn with envy while yours is worse for wear, then it’s time to point the finger at your pampered pooch. While there are many reasons why you’d find a lawn bald spot, your dog’s peeing habits are the most common one. Rather than give up altogether and let your lawn look like its suffering through a drought, we’ve listed some helpful lawn care advice below. It’s about time you gave your neighbour’s lawn a run for its money.

Step One: Down and Dirty

The first step to achieving that coveted bowling green is to rip up the lawn bald spot or spots. Dogs often urinate in the same place more than once, so you may find there are a few select areas around your yard that are worse than others. Because they urinate in those locations, you may wish to wear gloves for this task and use a rake.

Fortunately, clearing the area of grass is not as labour-intensive as you might think. Because the grass and its roots are all dead, it can be a matter of dragging it out of the way to allow for new growth. However, during this lawn care process, it’s crucial to clear the spot entirely – don’t leave any roots behind. Roots may still hold urine from your pets which make the following steps all for nothing if you’re releasing the harmful pee back into the ground.

Step Two: Apply Garden Lime

The reason why your lawn dies after your pet has urinated on it is that the ammonia in the urine is exceptionally acidic. Your grass doesn’t like this and dies as a result. Even by removing the grass, you are not able to achieve growth while the soil is still acidic. Therefore, you need to go to a garden store and purchase a bag of garden lime.

Take note of how much damage there is so you know what bag to buy. However, there’s no harm in having some left over for lawn care and maintenance later on down the track. Once you’ve purchased the lime, put your gardening gloves back on, grab a handful, then spread it over the lawn bald spot. Ensure that you cover the entire area evenly to balance your soil and promote growth.

Step Three: The Top Coat

While you’re helping your lawn recover by applying lime, the job isn’t done. You then need to think about how best to let the lime do its job, and that means you need topsoil. Topsoil is what sits on top of your ground – covering at least 50-60mm. Typically, it’s rich in nutrients, dark in colour, and is crucial for revitalising the earth for new growth. You can buy this alongside your lime at a garden shop and then spread it on top of the lime. Allow for at least 25mm of coverage over the lime. You shouldn’t be able to see any lime through the soil.

Step Four: Seeding

Now that you’ve put the steps in place for optimal growth, you can then buy the grass seeds and get the ball rolling. One of the first things you need to consider is what lawn type you currently have. Not every kind of grass is suitable in every region, nor will it tie in with the lawn you already have. If you aren’t sure what grass will work or what you have, take a few “samples” to your local garden centre, talk to a lawn care expert, and compare them to the varieties on offer.

Once you’re ready to sow, there are few ways in which to achieve the perfect result. Firstly, be sure not to cluster the seeds together. Spread them out evenly on your topsoil then add more soil on top. Make sure no seeds are showing as birds will make quick work of removing and eating them.

Step Five: Watering

Just as you would with young plants, your new grass needs daily watering. If you live in a sunny region, it may be in your favour to water the lawn in the morning or later at night to stop new growth from burning. You may also like to avoid planting new grass during times of heavy rainfall to prevent seeds from being washed away.

Step Six: Fertiliser (optional)

If you’re adamant that you’re going to have better lawns than your neighbour, then you may like to apply fertiliser. Fertiliser is a standard part of lawn care, and you can use it not only on your lawn but on the lawn bald spot to which you’ve just added seeds. Be sure to use an even application and opt for an eco-friendly brand.

Talk to the Experts

If you don’t possess green fingers and don’t have the time or inclination to remove that lawn bald spot, then call in the experts. Many different gardening businesses around the country will answer your call for luscious green grass. They can carry out the many steps to removing those lawn bald spots for good, while also keeping up with the maintenance of them as well.

Go Away and Stay Away

While it’s helpful to learn new lawn care techniques for getting rid of lawn bald spots, it doesn’t solve the problem in its entirety. If you want those dead spots to go away and stay away, you need to get back to the root of the problem: the dog. While we’re not saying you should give away your furry friend, we are saying that there are ways in which to correct the problem before it begins.

Pee Posts

There are now pee posts on the market which encourage your dog to pee in a “designated zone”. Rather than pee on your lawn, you can install this post somewhere else in your yard, then walk your dog to it until it learns that’s where it should pee. The post contained pheromones, as well as a bright and attractive colour, which encourage your pup to pee in this area rather than on your brand new lawn.

Natural Rock Remedy

The reason why a dog’s urine burns your lawn is that it’s highly acidic. If you purchase natural remedies which change the makeup of your dog’s urine (safely), then it’s no longer a problem. There are many dissolvable products you can add to your dog’s water bowl that can purify the water and provide less acidic urine at the other end.

Having a lawn bald spot is not the end of the world, but it does call for ongoing lawn care and maintenance. If you follow these steps, you can repair the spots as and when they occur. However, if you’d rather someone else took care of the problem, get in touch with an expert team in your local area.

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If you take pride in having your lawn look eerily similar to that of the bowling green down the road, then you’ll no doubt have your finger on the pulse of the best lawn care tips in Auckland. However, if you’re envious of those with perfectly manicured lawns while yours looks like a paddock, then it’s not too late. Even if your yard looks like it should be grazing stock, these seasonal lawn care tips for Aucklanders can have your greenery looking flash in no time.

Spring Lawn Care in Auckland

Spring is often the first taste of summer, and it’s a time when the grass wakes from its slumber, leaps back into life, and grows a mile a minute. Rather than let it get out of control quickly, you can use spring weather as an opportunity to prime your lawn for the warmer months ahead.

After such an extended state of hibernation, your lawn will be hungry for growth. To support its new-found appetite and to help it grow thick and luscious, it might be time to invest in lawn fertiliser. Fertiliser that features all the essential nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus is going to be the best option for your spring lawn care. However, if you find one with iron sulphate and potassium, you can also help your lawn to fight off disease and moss. If you’re not sure how to give your yard the best start for spring, there are always lawn care Auckland experts who are on-hand to help.

You may also find during lawn mowing in Auckland that weeds are getting a little out of control. You can take care of the odd weed here and there with a daisy grubber or invest in a weed spray specifically for grass to take care of broadleaf weeds. Spring is even a good time to repair those patches that formed over the colder months. Merely sprinkle grass seed in the affected areas after you’ve cut your lawn short, then keep the seedbed wet while they grow.

Spring is the prime time to prepare your lawn for the scorching summer ahead, so there’s no time like the present to get your gardening hat on and get going!

Summer Lawn Care in Auckland

Hopefully, in spring, you would have taken the time to either hire lawn care Auckland experts or prepare your lawn yourself for the harsh summer conditions. Summer is a time where lawn areas can suffer, especially given the often-dry conditions and the endless entertainment that takes place over the festive season. Many a game of backyard cricket is played during the summer months, and while your family is sure to have a lot of fun, your grass isn’t.

During summer, it’s a well-known fact that when there isn’t a lot of rain, there isn’t a lot of growth. Therefore, when you do need to do some lawn mowing in Auckland, be sure to set the mower on high. You don’t want to cut your lawn to the point of killing it.

However, it’s not uncommon to see endless brown front lawns in Auckland during summer – and choosing not to water them isn’t typically going to be to your detriment. If you set your sprinkler for short bursts, you may find yourself doing more harm than good. What’s more, most well-established lawns will bounce back in Autumn once that rain sets in. In essence, your lawn may seem brown on the surface, and dead, but the root system may be alive and kicking.

 

 

Autumn Lawn Care in Auckland

Autumn is your final chance to get all lawn mowing in Auckland, as well as lawn care, completed before the colder weather sets in. It’s the time where pest control, patching, weeding and feeding, all take priority in your spare time – all so that your lawn won’t suffer too dramatically in the winter months.

If you don’t feel like you’re up to the task, you can either worry about clean-up in the winter months or hire lawn care Auckland experts to take care of all the hard work for you. Whatever you choose to do, remember that you’ve got mere weeks until the early morning frosts and long rainy days set in.

To prepare for winter in autumn, it pays to invest in a slow-release fertiliser you can use in the warmer months and well into winter as well. It’s helpful to get maximum growth in the shortest space of time possible. What’s more, autumn is also the prime time to take care of daisies, dandelions, and other broadleaf weeds that take over your lawn in a matter of days.

However, the biggest problem with cooler weather is moss and fungus becoming slippery underfoot. Take action now by investing in fungus fighting products. With a bit of growing time still left, you may also like to take care of any patching jobs. Rather than have muddy holes all over your lawn, there is still time to get that critical growth to cover up the gaps.

Winter Lawn Care in Auckland

Lawn mowing in Auckland slows down during the winter months, and it’s a time when you can sit back, relax, and huddle up while you wait for spring to roll around once more. With all this time up your sleeves, however, it’s also well worth taking a sneak peek at your lawn to see how it’s faring after all your preventative measures.

If you find your lawn is battling, feeding it with high-quality lawn feed may be a good idea. A lot of the products on the market feature chicken manure which helps to promote positive bacteria in the soil. What’s more, it gives your lawn a healthy colour to carry it through the warmer months.

If you thought you saw the last of broadleaf weeds, think again. They can flourish as quickly in winter as they can in summer, but there are many control methods on the market. If you don’t have the time, you can do a simple online search for “lawn care services near me” and expect that there are many Auckland experts available to weed your lawns and gardens for you.

Be it summer, spring, winter, or autumn, there is always something to take care of outdoors. By taking note of these Auckland-specific lawn care tips, you may find your lawn is off to a cracking start at the beginning of each new season.

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It’s quite chilly these days in the Land of the Long White Cloud. Lucky for us, we can turn up the heating. But just think how it must be for your grass out there. Our grass puts up with a lot, but sometimes the colder weather can be a bit too ‘nippy’.

Many plants go into dormancy over the colder periods and can lose their green colour. Freezing temperatures can turn your lawn brown, but don’t fret, this is perfectly normal. Don’t fertilise your lawn during winter, instead wait for the natural cycle to occur during the spring season. 

Hydration

Remember to water your plants and grass as they still need to keep hydrated during the colder months. Drought can occur even in winter which can cause roots to dry up and die. 

‘So, when should I water my plants and grass’, you may be asking?

The simple answer is: do it in the morning. This way the moisture has plenty of time to soak into the soil. If it’s done at night, sometimes it doesn’t evaporate well. This means it stays on the blades of grass and this encourages fungal growth. You don’t need to water as much as you would in summer, about half of what you would normally have done. It’s also a good idea to give your plants a water if you know a frost is coming. Plants that have cells full of water will be stronger against damaging cold breezes. Be careful not to over water though, try to reduce watering during cold spells. 

Cover plants

Move any indoor plants that are still outside under cover, or inside. If you have any outdoor plants you are worried about frosting over, try placing a frost cloth over them during nights to insulate a little bit. It’s best to purchase a commercially made frost cloth from a garden store. The fabric is light and woven to allow airflow and light in. It’s also thick enough to retain warmth in the soil. Just remember to tuck in your plants in the windy weather and weigh down the frost cloths with rocks or potted plants to keep them from flying away!

A frosted lawn

There’s something about a frosty morning and icy lawn that is magical. But don’t be fooled as the icy shards are dangerous little daggers to a blade of grass. A frosted lawn will bruise and break grass blades easily with a little pressure on the ice. This means yellowing grass and brown or black damaged spots when the grass dries. So if your lawn does have a frost over it, try to avoid walking or driving over it until the sun has warmed things up a little. 

Keep mowing your lawn in winter too,  most people mow their lawn a little less frequently in winter. Try to avoid mowing in heavy rain. It won’t kill you, but will make it a lot harder.  Another tip is to cut your lawn a bit longer than you normally would. A longer lawn reduces the risk of ‘scalping’ which is cutting the lawn too short - making it susceptible to weeds and further damage. The longer blades will help protect the root of the blades from getting damaged by the frost. 

Frosted plants

If your plants have suffered in the cold, don’t fear the worst, and don’t run straight for the snips.

• Despite how badly you want to give them some love, clipping any dead looking branches immediately after frost will shock the plant. Wait until the sun has warmed them up for a few days.
  

• Keep watering plants after frost strikes as it will stimulate growth.
  

• Prune after several days of a frosty spell, this will give the plant a good chance to repair itself. Scratch back the bark to see if any branches are dead - revealing a tan or brown colour underneath or a healthy looking green.
  

• Delay wood plant pruning until the end of spring to give them more time to grow and show what parts of the tree are still alive.

Hopefully you feel a bit more prepared for the upcoming cold spells and remember: Keep watering, keep cutting the lawn, and look after your plants. But most importantly - don’t step on the grass!

Frosts in New Zealand can often be unexpected so we recommend you go out and grab yourself a frost cloth as we enter the cooler period. Your lawn will thank you for using these tips in spring, and hopefully your garden will fare better in times of frost too. 

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Grass is grass, right? Wrong. Contrary to popular belief, the type of grass your backyard has might be different to that of your neighbours, and the process of caring for it might differ significantly as well. In New Zealand alone, the average yard has a chance of being home to at least one of six types of common grasses, if not more.

If you’re looking to get to grips with lawn care, you might like to
know a little bit about that greenery in your own backyard.

Tall Fescue

Out of all grass types in Auckland and surrounding regions, you are more likely to come across Tall Fescue, a hard-wearing, dark green grass, than any other. Tall Fescue is coarse in texture, bunches together, and stands erect even when trampled. If you’re interested in lawn care, this type of grass is most likely going to be the most recommended option for your backyard.

It fairs well in low-water situations, adapts to various soil types, and is more tolerant to everyday wear and tear than some of the more delicate grasses available. What’s more, the seeds are affordable when you’re looking to sow grass yourself, and lawn mowing is a breeze.

Tip: Plant at least 50 grams of seeds per square metre and mow down to a minimum height of 50mm.

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Fine Fescue

Fine Fescue is not necessarily one type of grass; instead, it’s a collective of many different Fescue grass kinds found throughout the country. Fine Fescue incorporates red, hard, sheep and chewings fescue – variations of each other but with defining factors. When you’re beginning to take a real interest in lawn care, ask for advice on the best type of Fine Fescue for your exact needs.

Rather than be quite broad in the leaf like many other kinds of grass on the market, Fine Fescue is more narrow in its appearance. In fact, its leaves are typically quite easy to spot because they are more likely to be needle-shaped opposed to broad. This type of grass tends to mat together quite well and is suitable for areas that don’t get a lot of sunshine, but it does tend to suffer when faced with impact. Therefore, if you have pets or children who love to play outdoors, Fine Fescue might not be the best option for you.

This type of grass, when faced with drought conditions, can also suffer more than most. It is known to go dormant for periods of time, before coming back to life almost wholeheartedly when autumn showers roll in. It’s typically quite clever at defending itself against black beetles and is also easy to protect from foreign grasses.

Tip: Mow down to a height of 30mm and be aware that the seeds are slow to germinate in the beginning.

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Couch Grass

While Couch Grass is becoming a more common type of grass, it’s also quite an invasive one. Therefore, if you find yourself growing this rugged, robust grass, it’s helpful to read up on correct lawn care techniques. You want to be able to control it, rather than let it control you.

As it grows sideways, it’s a popular option for backyards that have a lot of foot traffic – such as those with children and pets. Even daily trampling is not enough to see it die away. However, if you live in an area with shade or frost, it doesn’t tend to flourish all that well. Instead, it waits for soil temperatures to increase before it takes off – often in the direction of your prized perennials.

If you live near the beach or your soil traditionally has high salt content, Couch Grass tends to be the best grass for these situations.

Tip: It has a highly intricate root system and has been known to overtake gardens and pathways. Get trigger-happy with herbicides to keep it on a short leash.

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Kikuyu Grass

Similar to Couch Grass, Kikuyu is another type of hardwearing grass that’s perfect for the family of pets and children to play on outdoors. It’s typically found around coastal areas of New Zealand and tends to be robust while handling all kinds of extreme weather. However, it does pay to have a bottle of herbicide at the ready, and a bit of lawn care knowledge as well. Kikuyu Grass, while hardy, can be a weed. Once it finds its way into your gardens, the roots embed themselves making it difficult to reclaim the area.

Tip: If you live in an area that’s typically quite sunny, Kikuyu Grass thrives.

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Rye grass

This is popular as a sports field grass especially during winter as it has a positive recovery. Doesn’t like the shade too much and it needs ongoing watering. This is good for full sun exposure. 

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Mixed Blend

Mixed blend is not usually a highly sought-after grass type. If you have your finger on the pulse of lawn care, you would certainly opt for a more low maintenance variety such as Tall Fescue. However, if you do happen to have mixed blend grass, you’ll know about it.

Mixed blend, as the name suggests, is a mixture of various types of grass seed combined. When you sow it, it can germinate at different rates – with some areas thriving a lot better than others. Once it’s fully grown, however, it does take a little bit more maintenance than other varieties, such as with lawn mowing. It can be a bit more tricky to keep under control, can wander when given the opportunity, and can prove to be a breeding ground for various weed kinds.

Then, as it’s not always noticeable what blend it is, you can have trouble trying to find suitable herbicides to kill weeds but not the grass. It’s not an unattractive lawn type – being ideal for all kinds of backyards and scenarios – but if you have a choice, you’re better to go with Tall Fescue or another variety.

Tip: Make sure you edge this variety well, providing no freedom to roam to nearby garden beds.

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The New Zealand climate can vary greatly depending on where you live, which makes certain types of grass seed suitable for some areas and not others. However, no matter where you live, you can rest assured that Crewcut can keep your lawn looking in tip-top shape. Just give us a call for all of your lawn mowing and lawn care requirements.

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A bare lawn can be a challenge unless you know what to do with it. It’s also the less expensive route to take if you are planning to transform the appearance of your home or garden. However, there are some tips to keep in mind before you plant that first seed in all that waiting dirt.

 

What climate are you in?

There’s more to planting grass seed than just raking up the ground and tossing down some seed. One of the first things you need to figure out is what type of grass will grow in your climate. Warm-season grasses won’t grow in areas where it gets cold, and cool season grasses won’t grow where it gets hot.

If you live in a cool season climate, the best time to plant your grass is late summer to early fall. This is because this type of grass grows best in the fall, spring and some areas, even winter. When grass seed is planted in late summer or early fall, the ground has still retained enough warmth for the grass seed to germinate quickly. Then the young seedlings have enough time with the upcoming cool season to become firmly established before the first lawn mowing.

But, you can also plant grass seed in the early spring in a cool-season lawn. It’s the second-best time to plant because of the hot weather, and the young shoots of grass will have less time to become established. But you can still get good results if you begin seeding early enough in the season. With warm season grasses, they are planted in late spring to get the best results. The weather is mild enough, so your grass seed will become established. But, with the heat of summer, the most vigorous growth of your grass will be starting soon before a much-needed lawn mowing.

You will also need to think about what the lawn is being used for. Is it going to be used for pets or heavy foot traffic? Is it just to look at or a place for the kids to play? Once you've decided which it's going to be used for, then choose the grass for your area and your needs.

Preparing the area

Planting a new lawn can be a big job, and it may be better to start with smaller sections to keep the job manageable. Plus, if you don’t have an inground sprinkler system, it makes it easier to water the new seeds. The first thing to do when preparing the area is to remove any old turf which is of poor quality and remove any weeds. You can do this by digging it out with a flat-bladed shovel and making sure to remove all the roots when you do. Or, you could apply an herbicide and use a sod-cutter from a rental place to remove the plant and the roots. Plus, if your soil is compacted, then you will need to use a rototiller to break up the clumps.

Another critical consideration for lawn care is to keep in mind is when preparing the area, be sure to gently slope it away from areas or building which could be damaged by standing water. The general rule is with every 100 feet of distance, allow a one-foot slope. You may find that some areas will be lower or higher than other areas, so you'll need to grade it to have a smooth appearance. You might have to buy some extra soil to accomplish this so try to match the earth which is already in your yard and mix it with what you have.

The next step is to check the pH level of your soil. Most grasses like a pH level of between 6.0 to 7.5. So, if the pH doesn’t match these numbers, then you’ll need to adjust the soil pH. You can amend your soil with fertiliser, lime, sulfur or organic matter depending on what the pH levels are. Using a power tiller to work in what amendments are needed is easier than working it in by hand. At this point in your lawn care program, you can spread a starter fertiliser which is high in phosphorus and soil conditioner or compost. You will need to also till this, so it’s worked into the soil.

After amendments are added, then use a landscaping rake to level the ground out. Remove any rocks, stones or debris which you find, water the earth and make a thorough check for puddles. If you see a puddle, allow it to dry thoroughly and then add soil from a higher spot. You will need to roll the soil to prepare a firmer base and foster adequate structure in the ground. Fill a lawn roller about one-third of the way with water, and for optimal planting, roll until your footprints are not thicker than ½ inch. This is because if the soil is too loose, then the seed will get too deep and will die before it ever reaches the surface. Finish up by watering the area to a 5-6-inch depth two days before you plant your grass seed.

Planting your grass seed

When getting ready to plant your grass seed, you need to pick a windless day. Using a rotary or drop spreader, sow seed evenly. You can cover the seeds by using a lightweight rake and dragging the back of it over the area. Or, you can apply a one-inch layer of mulch if the weather is going to be hot and dry or there’s going to be drying winds.

Water thoroughly but not enough to wash away the seeds. The next step in the lawn care process is to keep the area which is seeded most for about three weeks or when the grass has sprouted. Water briefly, maybe even 3 or more times a day, during periods of warm weather. Lawn mowing can be done when the grass is one-third more than it’s optimum height. Be sure to mow slowly, so you don't disturb the tender roots. Water often after the first lawn mowing, making sure the top inch of soil does not dry out until your lawn has established itself in about six weeks and four lawn mowings.

When you start a lawn from scratch, it isn’t difficult if you know what you’re doing.

For more helpful advice on lawn care, be sure to check out our other lawn articles or contact a helpful Crewcut operator. 

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Feeling a bit less eager to jump out from the warmth of your bed these mornings? 

After some wild weather in most parts of the country, winter has snuck up on us and is almost here. The drop of a few degrees making us part with our beloved shorts and tees and reluctantly bring out the woolies. Flannelette sheets, electric blankets and bottled water is flying off the shelves. Panic is setting in to be prepared for upcoming weather systems - but how do we approach lawn mowing in between these winter wet weather spells?

 

Just because a cold frost has hit, doesn’t mean your lawn has to look any less inviting. 

In the summer months your lawn thrives with heat and sunlight promoting photosynthesis. You have probably been struggling to keep up with cuts in this summer’s humid, tropical weather so a crisp cool breeze is a bit of relief right now. Your lawn has been a champion during summer coping with scorching heat, being flattened by kids and hopefully the brown patches from backyard tents have disappeared.

It’s time for a bit of TLC, so here are our answers to any questions you may have about mowing in the winter months, because your grass doesn’t stop growing completely, just at a slower rate. 

Should I continue to mow the lawns in the winter months?

During the winter we suggest getting your lawns cut every 3-4 weeks (depending on where you are in the country, it's best to check with your regular Crewcut operator). Keep a cut that will stay upright. Once it gets too tall the grass begins to bend over and shade itself which can encourage disease. Lawns are plants too, they need airflow! Due to the larger amount of rain, it can be difficult to find a good time between showers, but just keep an eye on the weather or keep in contact with your local mower. 

How do I mow the lawns when they're wet?

Your parents have told you, your friends, and your neighbours all have their own thoughts on mowing when wet. A light shower is manageable, a quick clean of the mower afterwards and you’ll be fine. After longer periods of wet weather, it can be more dangerous; and for someone who takes pride in their lawns, the cut won’t be as good. 

Our advice - avoid it if you can after heavy rainfall. Putting a mower over wet grass and muddy grounds can do more harm than good. The mower blades can dig deeper into a soft lawn; killing new grass sprouts. If the grass is too long or heavy with moisture it can bend over, giving an uneven cut. 

A good test - if the lawn sinks when you walk on it, it’s too wet. So for those lawn perfectionists, sorry you may want to leave it a bit wild for the time being until it has a chance to get dry with some rays. 

How do I keep debris under control?

Raking and keeping any fallen branches or leaves under control is a must in winter! A pile of leaves, grass clippings and anything else that comes over from your neighbours lawn will become a sopping pile of dirt come spring. If you only have a light layer of leaves you could mow and mulch them over your lawn instead. The small, cut up leaves can be a good form of compost for your lawn in winter - as long as the grass isn’t weighed down.

Can I walk on the wet lawns? 

The best cure is prevention, so if you’ve had recent flooding or heavy rain try not to walk on the lawn when wet. This will compact the soil, if you leave wet footprints behind you - it’s too wet! Come Spring you will find the soil is patchy and not quite what you would like. If you’ve been having trouble with flooded lawns and looking to do something about it like installing a rain garden or using mulch to absorb the excess water. 

 

Don’t forget your compost 

• Your compost heap might not be so quick to break things down, so do consider cutting things up a bit smaller to help the process along.

• Make sure you keep your compost a bit warmer, every time you top it up with scraps, throw a layer of leaves, sawdust or other carbon material on top for insulation. You could also think about insulating the outside with hay, a tarp or black plastic to keep it toasty.

• If your compost is covered from any weather storms, make sure you give it a water every now and then as cold winds will leave it dry.

Or if you haven’t started any sort of compost - read our article 'The Secret Magic of Composting' to find out more.

Time to cut back the unruly hedges and trees

If you have any hedges or shrubs, late winter is a great time to trim or shape them. This gives your hedge a good start when it has it’s growth spurt come Spring. Wait for a dry day to remove any broken branches and trim so the light can reach the lowest part of the plant. If you’re tackling a large piece of hedge and keeping it straight sounds a bit daunting - try using a string as a guide. Or if your hedge might need some heavy equipment we recommend consulting with a hedge trimming specialist, such as your local Crewcut operator.

Treat your gardens

Add organics such as compost, worm farm liquids and small chopped leaves to your gardens at the end of autumn so they have time to break it down to rich soil. Making more successful germination when it comes to spring. Now is the time your lawns could use fertilisation if you want as they will lose nutrients through winter - or simply fertilise organically by mulching some leaves over. 

Lawn mowing and garden maintenance might not seem so important in winter - but you can take some precautions to ensure they are in top condition for spring. Mowing as recommended in the winter will help prevent disease, promote healthy growth and is easier to maintain if strong weather does bring some heavy rain. Winter is definitely a time to stay indoors and keep near the fire - but don’t forget about those gardens either! Now is the perfect time to prepare, so there’s no excuses to complain when your Spring vegetables don’t grow. But, we don’t blame you if you aren’t too keen to get outside when it gets chilly. So keep an eye on the weather or have a chat to your local Crewcut operator to see what services they offer in the colder months. 

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(and how to solve them)

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Our lawns can look every bit the picture of perfection in the summer months. They’re a vibrant shade of green, the sun’s shining, and the kids are enjoying making daisy chains in the luscious green grass. Then winter hits, and it’s almost like a switch has been flicked.

Rain can turn your previously perfect lawn into a temporary swamp, moss and its distant relations make an unwelcome appearance, and the grass to mud ratio is a little overwhelming. Lawn mowing also becomes a distant memory too as you swap the sunhat and mower for a pair of gumboots and a jacket.

There’s no denying that winter can test our lawns to their absolute limit, but there are ways in which to reduce the impact it has. Keep on top of lawn care and don’t let winter win the battle. Here are four common winter lawn problems and how to solve them.

Moss

No matter how many times you give moss its marching orders, it seems to keep coming back. Not only can moss be an eyesore – crowding your grass and making lawn mowing all the more difficult – but it can also be dangerous. Moss works its way into your lawns, pathways and any crack it can find, creating a slippery layer that heightens the risk of slips and falls. Therefore, getting rid of moss sooner rather than later is crucial not only for your lawn’s appearance and health but your own safety as well.

It’s helpful, first, to understand why moss grows. It doesn’t appear without reason, and you’ll notice a lack of it during summer and in well-lit areas. Moss thrives on shade and dampness, so the more of that you have, the higher the instance of moss. You’ll most likely notice it around the base of trees, around edges of your lawn where fencing creates pockets of shade, and around shaded pathways as well. Anywhere that doesn’t have sun or light is a breeding ground for this unwanted guest.

The problem is, you can tackle the problem with sprays and chemicals, but if you don’t address the cause, you’ll never get rid of the moss. What’s more, spraying your lawn without knowledge of correct lawn care can be a recipe for disaster.

There are many things you can do to give moss on your lawn its marching orders, but it takes time. Firstly, take a look at your lawn area as a whole. Can you rectify the problem by removing the items creating the shade? Where possible, prune trees to allow more sunlight through, and this can dramatically reduce the instance of moss.

If fencing or neighbouring properties are the problem, you might have to take a more proactive approach. Instead of keeping those moss-laden areas as lawn, why not turn them into a garden area with plants that love shade? Alternatively, rake up the moss, add lime to it if previous soil tests show the area is acidic, then fertilise the grass to encourage prosperous growth. 

Liverwort

If winter casts a dreary shadow over your lawn, or your soil has poor drainage, you may begin to notice that Liverwort, a dreadful cousin of moss, starts to take over your yard. You may only see it during lawn mowing, but when you do, you’re sure to let out an audible groan. Liverwort is a terrible flat green and stemless plant that causes no end of grief for homeowners. It grows on pathways, lawns, and anywhere with shade or moisture. However, with adequate lawn care, you can remove the problem.

Try to reduce the shade by cutting back plants, aerate the soil to improve drainage, and try to avoid walking on the grass when it’s wet. It may also be beneficial to undertake a soil test as Liverwort tends to grow where nutrient levels are low, and acidity levels are high.

You can then hit Liverwort where it hurts and buy a moss killer. For best effect, apply this before winter or in autumn, and avoid cutting your lawns for at least a week. Once the Liverwort has died, rake it out and use fertiliser or a similar product to promote grass growth.

Further reading for lawn articles
- How to prevent lawn frostbite
- What grass is between your toes
- Signs you need to hire a lawn mowing professional

Poor drainage

Many sections in Auckland and surrounding areas are sloped. While this can allow us to flex our creative muscles regarding landscaping options, it does create some problems with poor drainage. It can cause your lawn to become patchy, create pooling that doesn’t drain away, and of course, creates a boggy mess you’d rather be without.

Poor drainage is not something you should leave to get worse. With torrential or relentless rain – particularly in winter months – it can create problems for both you and your neighbours. Therefore, it’s crucial to get on top of the problem sooner rather than later. The most common way to fix poor drainage is through aerating your soil.

When your lawns become compacted, or you have trees dotted throughout your property, the soil tends to clump together and loses its ability to drain water. Trees are by far the biggest problem. If removing the trees is not an option, use a garden fork to create drainage holes. Doing so can encourage rain to go into the ground rather than pool above it.

Pet urine stains

When you’re lawn mowing, you tend to take notice of all the imperfections in every part of your lawn. If you have a dog, you may notice them even more. Aside from little holes dug with little paws, you may also see brown spots burned into the lawns. These burn patches are caused by nitrogen in your dog’s urine. While it might only be a small amount, it’s enough to scorch your lawn to look as if it hasn’t seen water in years.

In summer, these burn marks are easily fixed by rapid grass growth, but in winter when the grass sits dormant, the repairing process can’t begin straight away. Before you know it, your lawn looks like a desert wasteland. However, you don’t have to put up with these burns forever as there are many different ways in which to solve the problem. After your dog urinates, you can spray the area with water to dilute it, or you could encourage your dog to either pee in one spot or drink more water to dilute the nitrogen levels. Then, once summer hits, rapid grass growth will solve the problem entirely.

There’s no denying that winter can cause no end of trouble in our backyards, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be the ones in control.
Stay on top of lawn care and reap the rewards of a lawn area that stands up to the elements all year round.

If you need a bit more help around the garden this winter - be sure to get in contact with Crewcut for some helpful advice. 

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It’s a rite of passage for some children to learn how to do the lawn mowing. Some entrepreneurial kids want to mow your lawn as well as everyone else’s in your neighbourhood to make money mowing lawns.

And yet, before your son or daughter turns on that mower for the first time, there are some safety precautions you need to teach them.

In this article, you’ll learn seven safety tips that you need to show your children before they start mowing your lawn.

 

1: Make Sure Your Child Is the Right Age

You may have a son or daughter who wants to help out with chores at home. Some parents even set up a chore chart and give an allowance.

But you need to consider your child’s age before you allow them to start the mower.

Just like you won’t let your child drive your car until they’re 16 and has their learner licence, you shouldn’t allow your child to operate a push lawn mower until they’re 12.

The American Pediatric Society recommends that the minimum age to start using a push lawn mower is 12, and the riding mower is 16 years of age.

 

2: Teach Your Child to Wear Eye and Hearing Protection

As a homeowner, you know how loud lawn mowers can be, so it’s reasonable to expect your child to wear hearing protection.

Since stones and twigs found in the garden can become projectile missiles, it’s imperative that your child wears eye protection too.

Additionally, it’s vital that your son or daughter wear closed-toe shoes. The mower blades are going about 257 kmph and will easily injure them if they’re barefoot or only wearing jandals while cutting the grass.

 

3: Teach Your Child to Pick Up All Garden Debris before Mowing

A garden tidy is important to think about before the lawns are mowed. Rocks, twigs, children’s toys and lawn furniture should be picked up or moved before your young mower starts working in the garden.  Little children or pets should either be moved indoors or to another area of your lawn before your pre-teen starts mowing.

 

4: Only Use Mowers That Automatically Turn Off

Whether it’s your 12-year old using the push mower or your 16-year old driving the riding mower, your mower should stop as soon as your son or daughter lifts their hand off the handle or gets off of the riding mower.

 

5: Make Sure You’re Home When Your Son or Daughter Is Using the Lawn Mower

Don’t tempt fate by leaving your home while your child is using the mower. Even if your child is trustworthy, anything can happen. And you want to be there in case of an accident or injury.

 

6: Read the Mower’s Instructions and Teach Your Child to Follow Them

To prevent a disaster, always read your lawn mower’s instruction book. Then teach your child how to use the mower based on the instructions. Your child will need to learn how to fill the gas tank too. So, you’ll need to teach them to turn off the mower and let it cool down before adding more gas.

 

7: Safety Trumps Perfection Every Time

Finally, you may need to make an exception to the rule for the perfect mowed lawn. Your child is learning a new skill and it takes time to make sure all rows are even.

Your grass will continue to grow, and you’ll still need to get the lawn mowing done every week. So give your kids a break if they missed a row or two on your lawn.

Whether your daughter or son wants to cut only your lawn or they want to earn some extra money by starting a grass cutting business for all the neighbours, make sure they’re at the right age and maturity before they turn on the ignition.

On the other hand, if you’re a busy family and your kids don’t have time to cut the grass, you may want to consider a professional lawn mowing service, such as Crewcut. We only use the best mowers, and you don’t have to worry about our operators getting hurt either.

At Crewcut, we provide hedge and tree trimming services as well as gardening services. We’re located throughout New Zealand. Check out our “Your Backyard” tab on our homepage to find your local Crewcut service provider.

Do you need professional lawn mowing services? If you live in New Zealand, call us free at 0800-800-286, or you can fill out our contact form.

At Crewcut, we serve the following New Zealand regions: Auckland, Bay of Islands, Christchurch, Dargaville, Franklin, Hawkes Bay, Hokianga, Hutt Valley, Kapiti, Manawatu, Nelson, New Plymouth, Otago, Rodney, Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga, Timaru, Waikato, Wanganui and Wellington.

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The end of summer is nearing and scorching hot days are now replaced with muggy, humid, tropical weather. Not so good for you, but great for your lawns and gardens which are thriving. However, it’s hard to keep up the lawn maintenance when any free time you have; it’s either raining, or you’ve succumbed to the humidity and fallen asleep.

It may be time for you to hire a professional to look after your lawns – and to keep you sane.

If you’re the one mowing lawns in the house, you know the struggle and preparation required to keep your lawns looking good. You’ve convinced yourself it’s the way to go for affordable lawn care, and it may very well be all you’ve ever known. But, when you look at it this way, DIY lawns firstly involves investigating for hours the best type of mower to purchase. Then figuring out and purchasing what else you need - weed eaters, clippers, regular blade sharpening and a whole lot more you come across on ventures in the garden. Grandad may frown upon getting a lawn care professional rather than doing it yourself – but nowadays who has the time for it? Especially you Aucklanders who spend more time in traffic than you do at home.

Imagine, no more fearing of what that clanging noise is coming from the mower, or wondering whether you’ve gotten too close to the rock wall and ruined the blades. You can now look at your lawn and enjoy it rather than counting down the days until it’s next trim. No more nagging, or rushing to get home and tend to the garden before guests arrive.

If you have experienced the feelings above, you should know a professional lawn mowing operator will relieve all of this. A professional will have top notch equipment, experience and is only a call away. If you still don’t believe it’s time for you to step away from the mower, you’re most likely in denial with these common excuses:
 

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1. It’s ‘exercise’

Sweating it out doing the lawns may seem like a good idea at the time, but heading to the gym can be just as effective and will leave you without the t-shirt tan lines. A quick mow can often take longer than expected in the heat, leaving you red-faced and regretting spending so much time in the sun.
 

2. It’s the ‘man’ thing to do

Your time is precious – if you’d rather be elsewhere on a nice day do it! Rest easy, You shouldn’t need the excuse of having mowed the lawns to have a cold one! Put your feet up to some cricket while you watch someone else do the hard work, or better yet - get out and about on a nice day.
 

3. ‘It teaches my kids character’

You’ll be lucky if you can get your kids mowing lawns, and if you do it’s for a price. As always, it will be left half-done, or not quite to your standard- much as it is when they wash your car. Soon enough they’ll learn about inflation and you’ll be wondering why you ever let them have control in the first place!

4. Too pricey

As said before, the equipment alone is expensive, the upkeep and especially if you think paying your kids is the way to go, then there's always money involved. By paying a professional you’re spending that little bit extra for top quality cuts every time and peace of mind – which is well worth it.

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So, have you been convinced that getting a professional may be worth it’s while? Some people simply enjoy mowing their own lawns. If that’s you, keep up the good work by all means. There is a great pride in a bit of physical labour, especially when rewarded with a beautifully manicured lawn. But if you want to save some money, time, and stress, you know what to do. Let the lawns be someone else's responsibility.

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Crewcut today to organise your free lawn mowing quote. Our operators are servicing backyards all around the country!

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Ahh, the famed Kiwi summer. There could be nothing better than endless sunny summer days out playing backyard cricket, wearing jandals, and gathering around the BBQ. In fact, most summer days are spent outside with friends and family in the backyard taking part in a range of fun activities on the lawn.

Here are some tips to help prevent your lawn from drying out even further. 

While having fun in the sun is the most important thing about summer and the festive season, it’s important to remember not to forget about your lawn maintenance and lawn care. The last thing you want is to walk onto your previously luscious grass only to realise you now have a dry lawn – and not a very nice one.  

With a lack of rain and a lot of use, it doesn’t take long before you say goodbye to your vibrant and soft green lawn and reluctantly welcome hard, dry, and dying grass to take its place. However, not all is lost. There is so much you can do to prevent a dry lawn, and all it takes is a little lawn maintenance.

Keep Cutting It, But Not Too Short…

It seems counterproductive, but the best way in which to keep your hair growing longer is by cutting it shorter. The same unusual concept applies to your lawns. Rather than have the mindset of “the lower you cut it, the longer it is before you need to mow it again” keep the height a little longer.

When you cut your lawns too short, the grass isn’t able to produce energy to grow. Then, it will die off, which not only means your backyard looks terrible, but it means you now have a dry lawn that will take so much longer to grow back – if at all.

When you go to cut your lawn, keep it at a medium length. When you do, the roots are stronger, thicker, and can withstand even harsh summer conditions better than grass you’ve cut down to the dirt. If you’re unsure how to maintain your lush lawns, contact your local lawn care experts.

Be Smart with Watering

If you’re enjoying the intense summer sun, but your lawn isn’t, then it’s time to take action. Your yard needs some TLC, and you need to keep on top of lawn maintenance to ensure it remains vibrant and green throughout those warmer months.

If your council hasn’t imposed water restrictions, the following information can help. However, if there are water bans in place, be responsible and let your lawns succumb. It might be tough, but drinking and washing water are more important than water for lawn care.

However, if you can keep up with lawn care, or have wastewater you can spare for your lawn, then you don’t have to welcome that dry lawn with open arms just yet. Rather than drench it sporadically and hope it’s going to grow, however, it’s a good idea to water it a few times a week when it starts to cool down at night. If you water your lawns during the heat of the day, you run the risk of burning new growth and evaporating the water before it works its way to the roots.

Don’t Be Too Heavy-Handed with Fertiliser

It might seem like the more fertiliser you add, the thicker and more luscious the lawn, but that’s not quite how lawn care works. Instead, if you apply too much fertiliser, you can burn the grass and have the opposite problem. Dry lawns are an issue you can combat, but only if you make sure you read the instructions when using any product. The last thing you want to do is re-sow your lawns because you misread the fine print.

If in doubt, get in touch with lawn maintenance experts or talk to someone when you’re buying fertiliser. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of your lawn.

Don’t Use It

In summer, there’s nothing quite like a game of swingball in the backyard, a few rounds of cricket, or even a game of tackle. However, as that lawn begins to dry out, it might be a good idea to keep those games for your local park instead. The more time you spend on that dry lawn, the more compact the soil. Then, when rain does finally arrive – or you water it – the grass may struggle to absorb all that much-needed moisture.

Stick to the concrete and playing fields for all your outdoor activities – just until your lawn has time to recover.

Don’t Clean Up the Clippings

Lawns with grass clippings all over them aren’t the prettiest sight, but during summer it’s a necessary sight. When you mow your lawns to encourage growth, cut the grass with the catcher off. The lawn clippings will help to keep moisture in the grass that may be struggling with a lack of rain. If you see any grass clumped together, spread it out a little more evenly so your lawn can still breathe.

Consider Your Grass Type

After two to three weeks without rain, grass can go dormant to protect itself. However, after about six weeks with no rain or moisture, there’s a high risk of your lawn dying – with no chance of revival. If you’re facing this genuine possibility, it might be time to consider a new lawn type. Depending on where you are in the country, you may find that drought-resistant lawn could be in your favour.

Some regions tend to have more extreme weather than others, and making sure your lawn, for the most part, can handle the extremities is crucial. If you have to start from scratch, talk to a lawn care expert about the best type of grass for your region.

With all these things in mind - we know how difficult it can be to keep the lawn looking its best. Trust us; we have over 25 years’ experience. If you're thinking you need a little bit extra help, be sure to contact the friendly Crewcut team. We can offer advice or additional garden services. 

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