How can I fertilize my lawn without chemicals?
A healthy lawn can be grown without the use of pesticides or synthetic chemicals. Chemical-free fertilizers encourage healthy growth of roots, and blades, and improve drainage, aeration, and water-holding ability of the soil.
A healthy lawn is built on soil that is healthy. A thin layer can be added to the soil to replenish its natural organic content. Organic lawn fertilizers are good for the soil and plants. You can choose from high-protein organic fertilizers like corn meal, alfalfa meals, coffee grounds, and soy meal (or whatever you can find locally and cheaply); home-brewed compost tea; or commercial liquid organic fertilizers.
Simple Steps to Organic Lawn Care
When you start an organic lawn care program, there are five things to keep in mind. To create a healthy lawn, you can take care of everything from the roots to the grass type to the watering techniques. Also, learn about Lawn Care Tools.
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Your grassroots should be strengthened
The health of your lawn begins at the roots. This is why it is so important to care for and nourish the soil. You can determine the pH level of the soil, which is the measure of acidity and alkalinity, to assess the health of your roots. Different plants prefer different pH levels. It is important to know where your grass stands.
Dandelions, for example, prefer pH levels of 7.5 to 7.0, which is mostly neutral. The pH level of most grasses is between 6.5 and 7.0. This is in the neutral to slightly acidic range.
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Organic Lawn Fertilizers for Healthy Grass
Mulch, also known as the grass itself, is the best natural fertilizer you can use for your grass. You can get rich nutrients from the grass clippings that you make every time you mow, such as nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus.
Microorganisms living in the soil bed will break down mulch into small pieces and then release nutrients back into the soil. This feeds your lawn. A lawn's ability to resist lawn disease and mold is enhanced by creating an environment that supports these beneficial microorganisms.
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Conserve Water and Keep Your Lawn Healthy
According to the EPA, lawn watering accounts for between 30 and 60 percent of the U.S.'s summer water consumption. Overwatering can lead to the drowning of grassroots, invite weeds, and promote lawn fungus growth.
The general rule of thumb is that you should water deeply, less frequently and at a cool time. To be effective, moisture must reach the roots when watering. You should get rid of any thatch (dead grass buildup at the top of the soil) before you water. Too much thatch can block water from reaching roots.
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Naturally, kill all weeds on your lawn
- Vinegar
Acetic acid (or vinegar) has been shown to be an eco-friendly and effective weed killer.
- Essential oils
Essential oils can be used in place of soap and vinegar. Small weddings can be made with oils such as orange, clove, peppermint, and pine.
- Corn gluten
Corn gluten can be purchased as a powder that can be applied twice a year to lawns.
- Hand weeding
Hand weeding can be an effective way of getting rid of perennial weeds. It can also help to control perennial weeds before their root systems grow.