Mar 8, 2016, 10:52 AM by Fred Speer

Nothing beats a lush, green lawn to run on, play on or simply lie on and gaze at the stars. And having healthy turf and a nicely landscaped yard is more than just aesthetics and neighborhood bragging rights.

According to Project EverGreen, not only does your lawn release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, it lowers temperatures caused by soil and hard surfaces. Lawns can be 31 degrees cooler than asphalt and 20 degrees cooler than bare soil.

The Clark Man not only protects your home from unwanted pests such as ants, termites, cockroaches and mice on the inside but we also care for and protect your lawn, shrubs
and trees from destructive pests, weeds and disease.

While it is too soon to predict the long-term impact this winter’s El Nino weather pattern will have on the state’s drought conditions – the Sierra Mountain snowpack was running ahead of normal conditions through early February – and watering restrictions, homeowners can take the following steps to prepare their yard for spring.

1. Rake up leaves, matted grass and sticks that have accumulated over the winter. Raking your yard can also help keep the thatch level in your lawn at a desirable half inch or less.
2. Homeowners can start training their lawns in the spring by only watering two days a week (The Clark Man reminds homeowners to always follow their municipalities watering guidelines). Infrequent watering promotes the growth of a deep, healthy root system that is better able to survive drought and heat stress.
3. Raise the cutting height of your mower to 2 ½ to 3 inches. Raising the cutting height allows turf to grow longer and thicker thus preventing invasive weeds and insects from taking root and ruining your lawn.
4. Make sure sprinkler heads on your irrigation system are working properly, that there are no leaks or broken pipes/sprinkler heads, and that timers are set accordingly. A leaky sprinkler head can waste water and too much moisture in the turf can lead to disease.
5. When you do water do so early in the morning. Water will evaporate if you water midday or afternoon and evening watering can promote disease.
6. For trees and shrubs the Clark Man recommends homeowners do a deep watering once or twice a week a week for 15 minutes.
7. Apply mulch – two to four inches - around the base of trees and shrubs to retain water.

Remember, if you have question on how to get your lawn, shrubs and trees in shape this spring, call 800/WE-NEED-YOU or drop me an e-mail at clarkcares@clarkpest.com

Until next time, I’m the Clark Man and thanks for helping me keep unwanted pests out of your home and yard.