Natural Lawn Care Quiz

Check all the boxes that apply to your home lawn practices.

Soil Health

I have my soil tested to determine nutrient needs.

I do not apply fertilizer if my grass does not need it.

I leave grass clippings, which adds nutrients and improves soil health.

I carefully read and follow the fertilizer label. (Tip: Contact your local University Extension Service for fertilizer recommendations based on turfgrass species and climate.)

Water Management

I only water my lawn when necessary—no more than one inch per week, including rainfall. (Tip: Measure using a rain gauge or tuna can.)

When my lawn needs water, I water deeply and infrequently in the mornings between 5:00 am and 9:00 am to lower the risk of evaporation and the chance for disease.

I reduce watering and let my lawn go dormant (turn brown) during periods of drought lasting less than 4-6 weeks.

I have done one or more of the following: installed rain gardens, rain barrels, permeable pavers; redirected downspouts to lawn and landscape beds; included native plants into my landscape design.

Landscape Design

I have reduced any unnecessary lawn area based on my needs.

I replaced turfgrass with native plants.

I have chosen turfgrass species adapted to the growing conditions of my lawn.

Maintenance Practices

I cut grass to a height of 3-4”.

I only cut 1/3 of the total grass height at a time.

I maintain my mower blades by sharpening them at least twice a year to reduce damage to grass blades.

I sweep excess fertilizer and grass clippings into the lawn and off of sidewalks and driveways.

If weed or pest problems arise, I hand pick weeds if possible or correctly identify the problem and spot-treat with recommended products.

I core aerate my lawn to reduce compaction, control thatch and increase water absorption.

I overseed to fill in bare spots and increase turf density in thinned areas.

Natural Lawn Care Quiz

Check all the boxes that apply to your home lawn practices.

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