Why Winter Time is the best time for certain lawn and landscape tasks

Many people look forward to that first Texas freeze as a sign that they can drain the gas tanks on their mowers and put them away for the winter. The cold temperatures might mean weekly lawn care is over for a few months, but some key winter lawn care tips can mean a great start for the lawn next Spring.

Aerate

For many people, aerating their lawns every few years is a rite of Spring, but lawns can benefit from aeration in the winter. At the very least, aerating in the winter opens up the soil to absorb more moisture, allowing water to penetrate to the roots. Even though the leaves are dormant, the roots will continue to soak up water, and aeration can make for a stronger root bed and thus a healthier lawn. Another benefit of aerating in the winter is the ability for better weed control during the growing months. Many compounds are now available that will create a protective barrier for lawns preventing weeds from taking root in the first place; however, that protection is destroyed if the soil is aerated after the chemical is applied. Aerating in the winter allows the lawn to maintain a protective barrier once it's applied.

Fertilize

The winter is the perfect time to apply a quality pre-emergent and fertilizer. Aerating before the first freeze will allow for better soil penetration, and the roots will continue to soak up the nutrients they lost during last summer.

Tidy Up

It can be tempting to let leaves, lawn furniture, and other implements stay on the lawn. Yellow lines won't show, and leaves can help hold moisture in. Unfortunately, both of these things can be bad for a lawn, and they're pretty easy to take care of. Clearing off furniture and implements means they won't get lost in the growth over the winter. This keeps them from leaving dead spots in the yard or damaging lawn mowers in the spring. Likewise, mulching and bagging leaves helps prevent lawn fungus, and can provide fill for flower beds where it will act as a natural compost. Following a few simple winter lawn care tips before closing up for the season can mean a lush, healthy lawn next season. Contact Picture Perfect Lawn & Landscape today to see how we can improve your lawn.

Top 3 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Care Service

Pick a reputable lawn care service to deliver quality work while maintaining maximum home security. Landscaping and lawn care crews often have three or more members - strangers who homeowners must trust for guaranteed results and hourly productivity. Before choosing a local contractor, interview at least three prospective companies to confirm fair pricing and other known qualifications of professional lawn care service. Remember, family safety and exterior curb appeal depend on high-quality work. Consider the following factors during the hiring process:
 

1.   Licensed Contracting Services

Ask for proof of professional licensing before discussing pricing, project timelines or any product specifications. Licensing ensures the necessary knowledge and experience for current business operations. On the other hand, hiring an unlicensed lawn care service may lead to wasted time and money.
 

2.   Professional Landscaping Experience / Project Portfolio

Look for professional experience related to all current and future projects. Lawn care maintenance and specialty landscaping companies offer an array of services, which may not overlap. Request a project portfolio, information on services provided/project familiarity and the years of business operation. Popular services include:

• Mowing, edging and weed eating
• Flowerbed maintenance
• Sod installation
• Sprinkler Systems/Watering/fertilizing

3.   Project Timeline

Set ideal project start and end dates before interviewing prospective lawn care companies. Professional contractors should supply an estimated project timeline based on their crew size, the weekly weather forecast and ability to acquire local materials.

Rely on these three factors to determine the best lawn care contractors and crews. In addition, consider requesting information on complementary guarantees, product warranties and continuing grounds maintenance. Every detail puts homeowners in control.