Starting a lawn care routine can feel overwhelming if you’ve never maintained a yard before. But you don’t need to be a landscaping expert to achieve a healthy, green lawn. With just a few easy steps, we’re breaking down lawn care for beginners so you can transform your yard into a space you’re proud of. Whether you’re tackling your lawn solo or looking for expert help, Musselman can be your trusted guide. 

Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to getting your lawn care on track: 

Step 1: Test and Prepare Your Soil 

Healthy grass starts from the ground up. Testing your soil helps you understand its pH and nutrient levels so you can give your grass exactly what it needs. 

A Few Tips: 

• Purchase an affordable soil testing kit from your local garden center (have you checked out ours?) 

• Look for key indicators like pH balance (ideally between 6.0 and 7.0) and nutrient deficiencies. 

• Add soil amendments as needed. Lime can raise pH, while sulfur lowers it. Integrating organic compost into your soil is great for boosting nutrients. 

Step 2: Choose the Right Grass for Your Region 

Not all grass types thrive in every climate. Picking the right grass will save you time and frustration down the line. 

A Few Tips: 

• Determine whether your region is best suited for cool-season or warm-season grasses. 

• Cool-season grasses (like Kentucky bluegrass) are great for northern climates like Indiana. 

• Consider a mix of grass types for a resilient, year-round lawn. 

Step 3: Mow Regularly and Correctly 

Mowing isn’t just about keeping your lawn tidy—it’s essential for healthy growth. But there are some right ways (and wrong ways) to mow.  

A Few Tips: 

• Set your mower blade to the right height. Most grass types do best when kept at 2.5 to 3 inches tall. 

• Mow frequently enough that you never remove more than one-third of the grass height at a time. 

• Keep mower blades sharp to avoid tearing the grass, which can lead to disease. Regular mower maintenance and cleaning can help ensure the best results. 

Step 4: Water Wisely 

Overwatering and underwatering are common mistakes for beginners. Proper watering keeps your lawn lush and strong. 

A Few Tips: 

• Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases. 

• Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. 

• Deep, infrequent watering encourages deeper root growth compared to shallow, frequent watering. 

Step 5: Fertilize and Control Weeds 

Feeding your lawn gives it the nutrients it needs to grow thick and green while weed control keeps unwanted invaders at bay. 

A Few Tips: 

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and fall. 

• Spot-treat weeds rather than blanket spraying to protect your grass. 

• Consider organic options if you’re concerned about chemicals. 

Bonus Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help 

If you’re ever unsure about your lawn care routine or need a professional touch, Greendell is here to help. Our experts can guide you through the process or take care of the heavy lifting so you can enjoy a beautiful yard without the stress. Contact us today for a consultation or to learn more about our network of landscaping experts. With Musselman by your side, you’ll be on your way to a lush, healthy lawn in no time.