Organic-Based Fertilization Program

The YardApes Lawn Care Program is based on nurturing healthy soil and using pest control only if necessary. We take an integrated pest management approach to our lawn care program. We start with a complete analysis of your soil, which will help us to identify any nutrient deficiencies or soil PH problems that may exist. We next recommend any corrective measures that may need to be taken and adjust your fertilization program if needed. If no adjustments are needed for your soil, our standard fertilization program can be broken down into the following steps:

  1. MAY - Broadleaf Weed Control and Crabgrass Pre-emergent Application. Timing of this application is critical in suppressing crabgrass seed germination. Equally important is the eradication of weeds that may have invaded the lawn during the previous growing season. While we use pesticides in a curative role, experience has shown that this combination application is important to lawn quality.
  2. JUNE - Organic Based Lawn Fertilizer Application. A controlled release organic based fertilizer applied in June will continue to feed your lawn for three months. A fully organic product (100%) can be substituted but at a higher price point. (Please see the benefits of organics in our ape advice section.)
  3. JULY & OCTOBER – Lawn Inspection. Inspection for insects and/or disease. After notification and following your approval, necessary corrective action is taken.
  4. AUGUST - Aeration. One of the most important maintenance practices we can employ to help maintain the health of your lawn. Aeration will prevent a number of problems, including compaction and thatch build-up. It opens passageways in the soil, allowing better air, water, and nutrient movement. During drought conditions, aeration helps water reach thirsty roots. (Please see our Aeration Service)
  5. SEPTEMBER - Organic Based Lawn Fertilizer & Broadleaf Weed Control Application. The second- and most important-- controlled release organic based fertilizer application is performed helping your lawn to recover from the stresses of the long hot summer. Treatment for broadleaf weeds that may have developed during the summer occurs at this time.
  6. PEST CONTROL - Integrated Pest Management. IPM is defined as “a process consisting of the balanced use of cultural, biological, and chemical procedures that are environmentally feasible, and socially acceptable to reduce pest populations to tolerable levels.” Knowledge of both pests and plants--and the monitoring of each-- is critical to landscape health. Proper management practices (ie. fertilizing, mowing, watering, and aeration) greatly reduces pest problems. In accordance with our IPM approach, pesticides are used only when insect and/or disease levels reach intolerable levels. Early intervention allows for fewer pesticides and reduces our impact on the environment. (Please see Insect & Disease Control Service for more information).

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