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Organic Lawns and Lawn Care
For the organic gardener the lawn is as much a part of the ecosystem as is a pond. Nature abhors a monoculture and weeds will try to move into a new lawn quickly. Whether you are looking for a formal weed free lawn or relaxed green space made up of a diverse plant species; either is possible through organic methods. Organic lawns are rich habits in their own right, full of variety and are of great value to insects, birds and other wildlife. These ecosystems can easily be created by accepting the principal that a wide variety of plants can grow together in a organic lawn. Once created organic lawns are easier to maintain than traditional lawns.
Here are some basic tips of organic lawn care:
- Chose grass seed to create the type of lawn you desire and suits the location. - Maintain good soil structure to promote grass growth. See managing soil organically. - Increase frequency of mowing as growth increases but never mow too grass too short. - Leave clippings on lawn as mulch during summer to feed the lawn. - Rake out moss before it accumulates and smothers the lawn. - Improve drainage with a hollow-tined aerator to prevent water logged conditions, which harms grass and encourages moisture loving weeds and moss. Remove large weeds by hand using a special tool such as an asparagus fork. - De-thatching (removing a layer of fibrous material and organic debris) that can accumulate on the soil surface in the depths of a lawn. Thatch can prevent water from reaching the soil, encourage diseases and stop grass from thickening. When this occurs remove the thatch by racking downward with a vigorous motion. For larger areas power dethatchers are also available to buy or rent.
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