Mow High and Water Deep

"Lawn care is made out to be more difficult than it really is," says Tom Tiddens, plant health care supervisor at the Chicago Botanic Garden. "We teach an integrative approach to taking care of grass and try to get people away from chemicals."

His suggestions: Plant ground covers such as periwinkle (Vinca major), wintercreeper (Euonymus fortunei) and Japanese spurge (Pachysandra terminalis) in areas where grass serves little purpose. Put down a flagstone path if there's light foot traffic.

Mow high. Cutting grass too short makes for shallow roots and weaker, more weed-prone plants.
Leaving it longer cools the soil and helps it hold moisture. It also creates more surface for photosynthesis, resulting in sturdier grass.

Use a mulching mower with a sharp blade and leave the grass clippings where they fall. This cuts down significantly on fertilization needs.

Aerate at least once a year. Removing thin cores of dirt helps oxygen reach the plants' roots, makes for better drainage, and invigorates growth.

If you need to supplement rainfall, water deeply and infrequently.

"Really soak the yard, then don't do it again for a while. Let the grass dry out and the roots will deepen, reaching down for water. You'll be creating a more tolerant, hardy lawn."

Copyright 2002 Chicago Tribune Company Chicago Tribune
June 18, 2002 Tuesday, NORTH SPORTS FINAL EDITION, Tempo; Pg. 6; ZONE: C