If stately trees, lush shrubs and brilliant flowers create a beautiful picture, then a lush, green lawn is the frame. However, there are two schools of thought concerning the best way to achieve that gorgeous lawn. One way is to constantly treat the lawn with insecticides and herbicides, while an organic Landscape Architect in Weston CT would use an organic approach, harnessing the natural abilities of nature.
The Problems Associated with Pesticides and Herbicides
The primary purpose behind the creation of pesticides and herbicides is the growth of food crops, not lawns. The use of toxic chemicals carries a high price tag. It’s been estimated that when these chemicals are sprayed, over 95% of the chemicals will land somewhere else. Runoff contaminates the water, while the wind spreads them to other locations, affecting people and animals.
When it has become a regular practice to treat a lawn with these chemicals, it can be difficult to stop. The beneficial organisms that are necessary for the growth of healthy grass are killed along with the pests. Weeds quickly move in, while repeated applications cause pests to become resistant. While modern pesticides are much more species-specific than older formulations, many people prefer not to have these chemicals sprayed on the lawn where their children and pets play.
Growing an Organic Lawn
? The first step in growing an organic lawn is a soil analysis. Healthy soil will supply the nutrients needed by the grass.
? The next step is to grow grass, a lot of grass, not allowing room for weeds to take root.
? Keep the soil cool, also inhibiting weed production, by cutting the lawn to 3.5″ or longer. Don’t try to cut a lawn extremely short, like a putting green. That’s not natural to the grass and requires extreme, expert maintenance.
? Apply a topdressing of compost to add to the organics in the soil.
? Finish off with an application of compost tea to kick-start the biological breakdown.
? Insects can be controlled naturally with the use of beneficial insects and fungus.
Northeast Horticultural Services knows how to perfect your natural landscape with a lush, organic lawn. This Landscape Architect in Weston CT offers a range of organic services to customers, including professional advice on plant selection and health. A beautifully designed landscape will substantially increase the value of the property. Visit the website to learn more and to contact an experienced, organic Landscape Architect in Weston CT.
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