Don't cut the lawn too short, because it will respond by growing faster. Also, lower mowed lawns require more water and herbicides - i.e., more work and money - to keep them going. So aim to cut no more than a third of the lawn's height at one time. Make sure to mow the lawn when … [Read more...] about Avoid mowing a wet lawn or cutting a lawn too short

Water both the lawn and plants deeply, but infrequently, to encourage deep root growth and save on the water bill. Watering plants and the lawn every day not only wastes water, but it also encourages roots to stay shallow, because they are expecting water tomorrow. Water deeply … [Read more...] about Water deeply, but infrequently

Fancy irrigation systems and sprinklers are expensive and unnecessary in most cases. The most efficient way to irrigate is to take a walk around the garden with the hose to water the plants. Water early in the morning or after the sun goes down, to avoid evaporation that occurs … [Read more...] about Water the garden by hand for big savings

A standard soil test - which can be done by a local cooperative extension service or with a home test kit you send off to a lab - will reveal the soil's pH, salts, nutrient and organic matter content and texture. It will also identify what nutrients that are needed, and in what … [Read more...] about Test the soil before feeding and planting