Organic-Based Fertilization Program

The YardApes Lawn Care Program is based on nurturing healthy soil and using pest control only if necessary. We take an integrated pest management approach to our lawn care program. We start with a complete analysis of your soil, which will help us to identify any nutrient deficiencies or soil PH problems that may exist. We next recommend any corrective measures that may need to be taken and adjust your fertilization program if needed. If no adjustments are needed for your soil, our standard fertilization program can be broken down into the following steps:

  1. EARLY-MID SPRING- Broadleaf Weed Control and Crabgrass Pre-emergent Application.
    This combination of broadleaf weed control and crabgrass control is generally applied in early May. The timing of this application is very important to ensure the best results in suppressing crabgrass seed germination. This is also an important time to eradicate any weeds that may have invaded the lawn during the previous growing season. Although we do not like to use pesticides in a preventative role, past experience has shown us that this combination application is very important to the quality of your lawn.
  2. LATE SPRING- Organic Based Lawn Fertilizer Application. (Please see the benefits of organics in our ape advice section.)
    We use a well-balanced 60 percent organic slow release fertilizer applied in early June when grass plants will best utilize the applied nutrients. For those of you who want 100% organic we can apply a fully organic product although it does cost about 2-3 times as much. (Otherwise we would use the product on all our properties).
  3. SUMMER – We will not treat your lawn during this time of the year, but we will inspect the lawn for any insect and/or disease problems during the month of July. If we do find any problems we will notify as soon as possible and after your approval we will perform the necessary corrective action.
  4. LATE SUMMER - Organic Based Lawn Fertilizer & Broadleaf Weed Control Application. A second 60 percent organic slow release fertilizer application is performed around late August to early September. This is the most important fertilizer application of the season for your lawn, helping it to recover from the stresses of the long hot summer. We will also treat the lawn for any broadleaf weeds that may have developed during the summer.  At this time of the season we highly recommend aeration of your lawn as well (Please see our Aeration Service).
  5. PEST CONTROL
    We will monitor your property throughout the growing season and scout for any insect and/or disease problems that may arise. We will use pesticides only when insect and/or disease levels reach intolerable levels (Please see Insect & Disease Control Service for more information).

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