A lawn is an open area covered with grass that is kept mowed. Most landscapes include a lawn. An attractive lawn is expected in many communities. Lawns provide safe playing surfaces for children and sports activities. They also function as a contrast to gardens, trees, and shrubs.
Caring for a lawn is much like raising children — methods of care vary widely. The results of this care vary, too. Even if people use a lawn-care service, they still harbor ideas and opinions on levels of maintenance and products used. Master Gardeners must clarify lawn-care techniques and dispel many myths that have evolved.
This chapter examines turfgrasses and how they react to soil, fertilization, irrigation, mowing, and seasonal changes. Most turfgrass problems arise because of deficiencies or excesses in the plants’ environment.
It is critical to identify and remedy problems so they do not become chronic, threatening the appearance and health of the lawn.