This is a common problem that some people experience. Some of the reasons why grass seed does not grow include insufficient sunlight, very high or low soil pH, hard soil, cold air, inadequate water supply, using weed control products, or planting the seed incorrectly. Here is more!

Why grass seed is not growing

Lack of enough sunlight

The grass is a form of plant that needs specific requirements for it to grow and germinate. One of the crucial things that it needs is sunlight. If your lawn is not receiving enough sunlight, the grass can take a very long time to grow.

You should ensure that you plant grass seed in an area that receives a few hours of direct sunlight every day. Sunlight is essential in grass seed since it enables photosynthesis. If your lawn is in a shady place and you still want to plant grass seed on it, choose the type known to grow in such conditions. Most shaded areas often have low soil pH, which is not very conducive for growing grass seed.

Hard soil

Have you planted grass seed on hard soil? If yes, this can also prevent it from growing. Hard soil is often compacted due to heavy traffic. Since such soil may not get enough water, it can prevent grass seed from germinating. Compacted soil also lacks access to enough air.

You should avoid planting grass seed on soil that has a lot of clay content. Before planting grass seed, you should take some time to prepare it. Get rid of any dead grass or thatch on it. If you wish to grow grass seed on a huge piece of land, you should consider renting a motorized machine for this task.

You skipped testing the soil

Before you decide to plant grass seed on a lawn, you should test the soil. When the soil pH is less than 6.0, it can make it hard for grass seed to grow. Grass seed can also not grow in soil with a very low pH. You can get a test kit online and then send the soil sample to a lab for analysis.

Once you test the soil, the results can help you figure out what your soil has and what it may be lacking before you start planting grass seed on it. It can also help you figure out if you should amend the soil with sulfur or lime for proper grass balance.

Inadequate water supply

For grass seed to germinate, it needs enough water. Overwatering the grass seeds is also not advisable since this can hinder germination. This tends to drown grass seeds and make them float on the surface rather than taking root in the soil.

Soil temperatures and cold air

These two can also make it hard for grass seed to grow based on the grass seed type you choose to grow. Most types of grass seed need a soil temperature of above 55 degrees F. Most types of grass seeds do well in warmer soil temperatures. Too much cold can inhibit the germination of grass seeds.

Planting grass seed incorrectly

When you get plant seed, there is a certain procedure that you should follow during planting. Not following the guidelines can prevent the grass from growing as expected. Ensure that you check the label that comes with the grass seed before planting. There should be adequate surface area contact between the soil and the grass seed for grass to thrive.  You should spread the grass seed well on the ground during planting and cover it lightly with mulch. This can protect it and keep the grass seed moist.

Using weed control products

Though some products can prevent the lawn from developing weeds, they can also prevent grass growth on a property. Avoid using any pre-emergent weed treatment at least three months before planting grass seed. Before you buy a weed control product, go through the label.

A summary of the causes and solutions

Conclusion

Have you noticed grass growing in all the wrong places and not in your lawn? You should find out what could be causing this. Assess the causes above and make the necessary changes for it to start growing on the lawn.

FAQs

Can traffic affect how grass seed grows in a lawn?

Yes. You should avoid too much traffic in a newly seeded area. Keep people away from the lawn until the grass is established.

When should you apply lime?

You can do this when the soil requires higher pH.

The post What to do if grass seed doesn’t grow appeared first on A Good Garden.

The types of lawnmower oils differ from one model to the other. You can either choose single or multiple-grade oil, synthetic or fully synthetic oil for your lawnmower. Each oil type has a recommended temperature range. Here is more!

The types of oils that lawnmowers use

A lawnmower uses an engine for it to work. The engine of this machine is made of different moving parts that work at high temperatures and speeds. Oil is important since it cools and lubricates these parts. When you don’t put oil in a lawnmower, it can make its engine overheat and eventually get damaged.

A lawnmower uses oil that is often used in trucks and cars. Using the wrong type of oil can displace certain units due to higher viscosity. Lawnmower oil comes in various grades depending on viscosity as well as how it reacts at different temperatures. Every lawn mower oil should have a viscosity rating and service rating. This comes with different designations such as SG, SF, SJ, and SH. Check out the following designations.

A lawnmower that features a two-stroke engine burns oil and gasoline at a go. Such an engine is often common in small push mowers. The oil for such a lawnmower should be mixed with gasoline before going into the tank. If you have a two-stroke engine, you should first put the correct oil amount in the empty can then proceed to a gas station to fill it up. Before you utilize the mixed gas, shake the can to mix the gas and oil properly.

Two-stroke engines are slowly becoming less popular due to emission regulations. If you have such an engine, you can get any two stroked motor oil used in a water pump or chain saw. If, for instance, your lawnmower features a four-stroke engine you should get a different kind of oil.

Such an engine needs the motor oil grade known as SAE 10-W30.  A four-stroke engine burns straight gasoline, and it powers heavy-duty equipment. This type of engine is often found in large lawnmowers. In this engine, gas and oil are kept separate.  If you don’t know the kind the grade that your lawnmower needs, check the manual.

How often can you change the oil in a lawnmower?

A four-stroke engine makes it easy to monitor the level of oil left in a mower. If you have such an engine, you must check the level before every mowing session.  Doing this can prevent you from any surprises as you mow, such as running out of oil in the middle of the session.

If the lawnmower is still new, you should change the oil in a four-stroke engine after the first four hours of use. This is because a new engine has parts that wear easily. If you don’t change the oil, the metal filings in the oil can lead to excess wear.

Do you have a walk behind mower? If yes, you should always change the oil at least every 50 hours of use. If you have a riding mower, you should change the oil in it every 100 hours of use. You can also use the manual to check the amount of oil that the mower requires. Some lawnmower users also use a dipstick to confirm the amount of oil left.

Conclusion

Maintaining a lawn mower properly can keep the machine working well for a long time. You should know the right kind of oil that your lawnmower needs. Always replace the oil in your lawnmower after some time based on the mower specifications. Look at the manual to determine the right oil for your mower’s engine.

FAQs

Can I utilize synthetic oil on a lawnmower?

Yes. You can use synthetic oil such as 5W30 oil in different temperature ranges.

What are the disadvantages of a two-stroke engine?

Such an engine produces more smoke and is louder than a four-stroke engine.

The post What kind of oil do I put in my lawnmower? appeared first on A Good Garden.

This is a good expanding foam that can easily fill the cavity and create a strong seal within the surrounding soil. It is also lightweight, consistent, and sets in a few minutes. It does not require water or any special tools. The Sika postfix also requires less labor and works well on 4x 4 poles. Despite such advantages, Sika postfix does not work well for 6 x 6 poles. It is also not the best for soft grounds and has less compression strength. Here is more!

What is Sika postfix?

Though setting a fence post can seem difficult, getting the right product can make the experience easier. The Sika postfix is made up of polyurethane and resin. When mixed, Sika postfix creates an expanding foam that provides insulation for posts such as a mailbox, a fence, a lamppost, or a signage post.

Sika postfix comes in a bag that has to be mixed before you start applying it. Once you mix and apply it, it will expand and harden. It can be used on PVC, steel, aluminum, and wooden supports. The manufacturer uses Sika foam technology in the creation of this expanding foam.

The merits of using Sika postfix

Even though the market has different types of expanding foams, the Sika postfix remains the most popular option due to its many benefits. It is a lightweight expanding foam that makes setting posts around a compound an easy task since it is simple to handle.

Since the application process is a breeze, you don’t need any experience to use this expanding foam. Once you purchase it, all you have to do is roll, mix, and then pour it into the desired hole. This foam sets in only three minutes and can therefore save you time. Since Sika postfix comes pre-proportioned, it can deliver an excellent performance.

Sika postfix is a versatile expanding foam that you can use to set posts made from different materials. It is designed to seal the hole and protect the base completely. Once you use this foam, you don’t have to worry about the post losing its stability quickly.

You can use it to set up a post even in the cold weather without requiring any additives. It is also a long-lasting product that can easily resist moisture infiltration. This foam is designed to expand; it goes an extra mile in terms of securing a post. Unlike using concrete, where you may require some water, you can use Sika postfix without water. You will not also need any special tools for you to apply this expanding foam as you set up a post.

Does this expanding foam have any disadvantages?

Though Sika postfix may seem like the best-expanding foam for setting posts, you should understand its flaws. One of them is that it comes at a higher price compared to other types of expanding foams. You should, however, consider it since it can give you value for your cash. Some users also don’t like the lightweight of this expanding foam. They reveal that it is more like glue rather than an anchor.

Sika postfix also comes with a 33 fl. oz. bag. This quantity may not be sufficient to help you fill huge holes or even anchor 6×6 poles. You can only use it to fill gaps that are around 4×4 posts. Though the expanding foam works well on hard ground, it may not give you the best results on soft ground. It requires compacted ground for it to work as desired.

When you compare it with concrete, you will find out that Sika postfix has less compression strength. Unlike concrete which can be reused, Sika postfix is not reusable. If you still want to set a post using the Sika postfix, you should avoid exposing it to high heat conditions since this can accelerate the expanding reaction and make the bag burst before using it to fill the hole.

Here are the specifications of the Sika postfix

Conclusion

Sika postfix is a good type of expanding foam that can help you secure posts in different positions well. It is easy to work with and offers a solid foundation for different posts. Since the cons are less than the pros, this is an expanding foam that is worth considering.

FAQs

How long can the Sika postfix last after a signage post set up?

This is a durable expanding foam that can last for at least three years without breaking down.

Which is better, Sika postfix or concrete?

Sika postfix is better since it delivers better consistency up to the bottom layer of the soil. Though concrete can look solid on top, it may be brittle on the bottom part of a post.

The post Sika postfix pros and cons appeared first on A Good Garden.

These are popular attachments that are not only used at home but also at building sites. They can help you get rid of problems such as potholes in a particular area. Though a box blade and land plane may serve the same purpose, they have some differences that you should understand before choosing either of them. Find out more!

What are the differences between a land plane and a box blade?

Land plane vs. box blade- How do they compare

Versatility

To choose between these tools, you have to think about your needs. A land plane is ideal for smoothing out gravel roads. A box blade is a more versatile tool than a land plane. You can use for different purposes such as backfilling, grading, or leveling. Due to the versatility of a box blade, you can depend on it to manage your property from time to time.

Effectiveness

Though you can use either of these tools to move different materials like soil or gravel, a box blade can help you move more material than a land plane. The box blade is more effective at moving material than a land plane since it reduces the trips you have to make. A box blade is known to handle rough stuff better than a land plane.

Design

You can also tell them apart by focusing on the design of these tools. A box blade has the shape of a three-sided metal box. A land plane is not box-shaped. This consists of dual forward blades that come into contact with the ground. A box blade has a simpler design compared to a land plane.

Land plane vs. box blade- A comparison overview

Land plane

Whether you wish to level a garden or horse arena, you can achieve this with the help of a land plane. This is a user-friendly tool that features some forward-cutting blades. The blades come into direct contact with the ground at the same time. You can use a land plane to lift gravel and dirt from the ground and maintain a driveway or gravel road.

A land plane often comes with two cutting blades that are set horizontally. The cutting edges of these blades cut into the earth at a shallow depth. As you shop for a land plane, you can get models that come with 3 point hitch configurations that enhance land leveling.

If, for instance, you need a land plane that can help you repair an eroded surface, you should get one with scarifiers. Such a land plane is more aggressive at churning the soil. If you have never used one before, you should start working slowly to learn how to find an ideal speed for the tractor and the project you are working on.

Pros

• It leaves behind a smooth surface
• The blades touch the ground and work simultaneously

Cons

• The land plane does not move a lot of material at a go

Box blade

The box blade attaches at the back part of a tractor. It comes as a three-sided metallic box that can help you achieve various purposes.  For instance, you can use a box blade for leveling, backfilling, or grading. A box blade can spread different materials like gravel or soil on a surface.

It comes with scarifiers that can effortlessly dig into the ground and break up the surface to shape it for a specific purpose. If, for instance, you want to grade or reshape your driveway, you should get a box blade. The scarifiers are angled metallic teeth that are fitted in a row.

The box blade can easily carry the unwanted material on the surface with it as you use it. You can even utilize it when you want to move dirt from a certain area. The box blade can pull the dirt forward or push it backward. Many people like the simple design of a box blade. Practicing using a box blade can help you learn how to break uneven ground using the scarifiers.

Pros

• It is versatile
• The box blade has a simple design
• It moves a lot of material at the same time

Cons

• High price

Verdict: So, which is better? Land plane or box blade

After comparing these two attachment tools, we discovered that a box blade is better than a land plane. This is because it can help you carry more material in one trip than a land plane, it comes in a simple design, and is more versatile.

FAQs

How does a box blade work?

This rectangular metallic device attaches to a tractor. Its scarifiers can break up the soil and shape the ground.

What material is used in making scarifiers of a land plane?

These are mostly made from steel which is strong enough to break both soft and hard ground.

The post Land plane vs. box blade – Which attachment tool should you get for your property? appeared first on A Good Garden.

Mow the grass, plan the path using a rope or tape, get the suitable edger, and put on some safety gear. You can now start edging. Ensure that the edger is level and maintain straight arms. Go over any jagged areas and prune bushes and shrubs. You should then remove any debris on the edger for future use. Here is more!

These steps can help you trim the lawn edges

You should not cut grass in your yard and forget the edges. Trimming the law edges is important since it makes the lawn look fresh and crisp. This is the procedure that homeowners that have the best-looking lawns follow. Trimming the lawn edges can make your yard stand out since it beautifies it more. You can achieve this through the following.

Start by first mowing the grass

If you have stayed for some time before working on the grass on your lawn, you should first mow it.  Mowing the grass first can help you figure out how short you should trim along the edges. Cutting the grass too low can weaken the grassroots or even leave some bare patches on the surface.

Plan the path

Once you mow the grass and are ready to trim the edges of your lawn, you need to plan the path. You can do this with tape or rope. Such items can help you figure out where you should make the edging cuts on the lawn. Some people use spray paint to plan the path. This is not advisable since you may miss the path, especially when you trim the edges during windy conditions. If you wish to edge the lawn along the sidewalk, you don’t have to plan the path.

Get an edger

For you to trim the edges of your lawn, you need to use the right tools. You can either do this with a manual or power edger. Here is a summary of the edgers that you can pick from.

If you don’t have a lot of time for this task, a power edger such as a string trimmer can help you work in less time. It features a stringing head and a monofilament string which creates the necessary force to cut weeds and grass through the lawn edges. Though a manual edger is more time-consuming, it gives you more control than a power edger. A manual edger can also help you trim grass along the lawn edges easily.

Use safety gear

Before you start trimming the law edges using such a tool, you should put on the right gear to boost safety. You need some sunglasses that can protect your eyes from debris, grass, and pollen. You can also get a face mask if you have specific allergies since this can cover your mouth and nose. A pair of gloves is also essential since it keeps your hands from dirt.

Start edging

If you are trimming lawn edges for the first time, you need to familiarize yourself with the movements. Start working on a less visible part of the lawn. Do not forget to check where plumbing pipes and electrical wires are located to avoid cutting into them.

If you are using a string trimmer, you should flip the head to a certain angle before you start walking on your driveway as you trim the edges. Keep this edger level and always maintain straight arms so that you can get straight edges.

Look for jagged areas

You should also take the time to shove up any mulch, loose soil, or turf from the lawn. Doing this can help you see the edging better. Once you do this, you can assess jagged areas that you need to trim down.

Prune shrubs

Take care of any curved pathways, then prune the shrubs and bushes around the compound. Do this in small regular sections so that you can get even shapes.

Clean up

Once you have completed edging, you should clean all the residue from the edger. Doing this can make it easy for you to use the tool the next time you would like to use it.

Conclusion

Trimming the lawn edges after cutting grass on your lawn should not be a complicated process. As long as you have a good edger and some time to trim the edges, you can achieve this in less than an hour.

FAQs

Which tool should I get for trimming on the lawn edges?

This depends on your budget and the time you have for this activity. You can choose from a manual and power edger.

Can I edge the lawn without an edger?

Yes. This is possible. You can use the cutting blade of the lawnmower to trim the edges.

The post How to trim lawn edges appeared first on A Good Garden.

When this part breaks, it can prevent the lawnmower from functioning. You can, however, replace it with ease. Disconnect the power cord, then remove the screws on the rewind housing. You should then remove the broken rope and settle the new one. After this, rotate the pulley, then insert the new rope in the rewind housing. Once you cut off the extra rope, you should reinstall the rewind housing then reconnect the power cord.

What is the pull cord in a lawnmower?

The pull cord is a crucial element of a lawnmower that serves as a starter. A lawnmower cannot start functioning without this part.  For you to replace a broken cord, you must first understand its housing. A lawnmower cord is made up of different parts, including the recoil spring, pulley, and handle.

How you can replace it

You can replace the cord on your own in about half an hour. If you have never done this before, you should check the user manual for some guidance. Start by getting the right equipment for this task. You will need a new cord that has the same thickness and length as the old one. You can get a new one from an engine repair shop or an online store.

Apart from the cord, you will also need to get other useful things such as a wrench, screwdriver, gloves, lighter, and pliers. Once you have all these, put on the gloves and position the lawnmower on a flat surface. You should then follow the steps below.

Disconnect the power cord

You should first disconnect the machine’s power cord. Once you find the mower’s power cord, you can now disconnect it from the battery.

Remove the screws

You will either need a wrench or screwdriver. Either of these can help you remove the three screws attached to the machine’s rewind housing. Ensure you get an excellent place to hold the screws since they can easily get misplaced. Once you get the housing off, you should clean out twigs or grass that may be inside.

Remove the old cord

After removing the screws, you can now proceed with removing the broken pull cord. Start by hitting the rewind housing lightly so that it can open. Find the edge of the pull cord, which is probably knotted. Use pliers to hold the edge and pull out the broken cord. You will need the edge from this old rope to insert the new cord in the lawnmower.

Settle the new cord

Tie a knot on the rope, then enter it where the old rope was. You should do this carefully as you take note of the rewind’s innerspring. Rotate the rope around the pulley in the right direction, then fasten it.

Rotate the pulley

You should continue rotating the pulley until you notice the pores of the rewind housing in the same position as the pulley’s pellets. Use the screwdriver to ensure that the pulley is not rotating in the other direction.

Insert the cord in the rewind housing

The rewind housing has a hole in which you should insert the rope. Once you do this, give the rope a knot in the end. You should then use a lighter to heat the rope.

Cut the extra rope off

At this point, you should remove the screwdriver. The rope will be fastened to the wheel. Take your time to return all the parts to their previous position. You can then cut off any extra cord.

Reinstall the rewind housing

Once you have cut the extra rope, you can now reinstall the rewind housing to the previous position. Do not forget to reinstall the screws you removed. You will need a screwdriver or a wrench to tighten them.

Reconnect the power cord

Reconnect the power cord to the battery. You should turn on the mower and confirm if it is working. If you replaced the cord correctly, the lawnmower should now be ready to cut grass.

Here are some of the pull cords that you can get for a lawnmower

Conclusion

A lawnmower cannot cut the grass when the cord is broken. If you are in this situation, you should follow the steps we have highlighted to replace it. Happy mowing!

FAQs

Why do I have to disconnect the mower’s power cord from the battery before this task?

This can prevent you from getting electrified as you replace the cord.

When should I replace the lawnmower cord?

You need to replace the pull cord when it is damaged or broken. If the pull cord fails to return to the housing as expected or gets stuck, you should also consider replacing it.

The post How to replace lawnmower cord appeared first on A Good Garden.

If you have this machine, you should learn how to install the bag correctly. Start by inserting the frame that the bag comes with. You should insert both the rear and front parts of the frame. After this, attach the hardtop, then install the mounting bracket. For you to put the bag on the lawnmower, you should lift the flap to expose the blade then let the flap rest on the bag. You can now start cutting grass with the bag attached to the lawnmower. Here is more!

Follow these steps

The troy bilt is a good lawn mower that can help you maintain a good-looking lawn. You should use it with a bag so that you don’t leave any grass behind after cutting. Putting the bag incorrectly can lead to a clogged blade which can hamper the machine’s ability to cut grass. Since proper installation is essential, you should follow the steps below.

Insert the frame into the bag

To put the bag in this lawnmower, you should first pack the machine on a flat surface. Ensure that the bag you are putting on the lawnmower is right side out. Once you do that, you can now insert the rear part of the frame into the bag. Every bag for the troy bilt lawn mower comes with a rod frame.  Ensure that you slide the length of the looped cloth channel to the tube. You can now work the cloth bag around the frame. Make sure that the tube and cloth channel point in a similar direction.

Once you have inserted the rear frame, you can now proceed with installing the front frame. Use the extended tube from the rear and front tubular frames to slide them together. The end of the bag contains some plastic clips, which you should use to hook onto the frame. Begin from the bottom part and then work your way towards the sides.

Attach the hardtop

You can now position the bag such that it hangs freely from its frame. Once you do this, insert the handle into the slot found at the front of the hardtop. You should be able to slide the hardtop down this tubular handle to fit it over the bag.

Install the mounting bracket

Some people experience difficulties with this step. To install the mounting bracket, you should first place it under the front part of the handle. Ensure that the tabs point upwards. You should then insert the screw through the hole then enter this hole in the mounting bracket. You have to put in some force and get the right tools to penetrate the bracket.

Lift the plastic flap

At the back part of the lawnmower is a flap that you can lift to place the bag. Lifting this flap exposes the mowers blade. You should slide the metallic catch on the bag onto the rod that is found under the plastic flap. Once you do this, let go of this plastic flap so that it can rest on the bag.

Apart from following these steps, you should always ensure that you are using the right bag based on your lawnmower model. The market offers different bags that are compatible with various troy bilt lawnmowers. If you need a new bag that you can use with your lawnmower, you can consider the following options.

Also, avoid cutting wet grass since this can easily wear down the blades and negatively affect the mower’s engine.

Conclusion

A grass bag is a useful component that can help you keep the lawn clean after cutting grass using the troy bilt lawnmower. A good bag can also save the lawnmower from dirt, wind, pollen, the sun, and dust. If you use the troy bilt lawn mower frequently, you should get the right bag for it. Knowing how to put the bag on the lawnmower and remove it is important. Follow the steps we have highlighted above before you start using the lawnmower.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a bag in the troy-bilt lawn mower?

This is the collection system that attaches to the back part of the lawnmower. It is designed to collect grass clippings after working on the lawn rather than leaving them on the lawn.

How can you empty this bag?

Once you have collected all the cut grass, you can empty the bag. Approach this mower from the back part, then place your hands under the flap. Place your hands firmly on the frame, then remove the bag.

The post How to put the bag on a troy-bilt lawn mower appeared first on A Good Garden.

This lawnmower has a pulley system and belt that are meant to transfer power to the blades and wheels. If the belt is worn out, you should consider replacing it with a new one. Start by placing the mower on a flat surface, using the parking brake, and then lowering the cutting deck to a low setting. Remove components such as the washers and spring pins before removing the cutting deck. You can now put the new belt on the mower. Once you do this, slide the cutting deck back, then check the connections before starting the engine.

Follow the steps below to put a belt on this lawnmower

If you have been using a John Deere lawnmower for a while, the belt is bound to wear out. This can make the lawnmower slow down unexpectedly. Replacing the belt of this mower is a bit technical since you need to remove some components. Start with the following.

Get the right equipment

You need to gather the right tools to make the process comfortable. Some of them include pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, gloves, and the replacement belt. Choose a belt that matches the old one in terms of shape and length to avoid problems with the belt getting lose from the pulleys.

Pack the mower

Before you start replacing the belt on the lawnmower, you should place it on a level surface. Ensure you disconnect the cables to prevent the engine from starting accidentally. Use the parking brake to prevent the mower from rolling. Once you do this, you can set the cutting deck to a low setting. This is the part that holds the blades.

Remove any attached components

Once you set the cutting deck to a low position, you should see the different pats that hold the belt, such as the spring pins and connecting rods. Use the pliers to remove the spring clip from the engagement drive cable. Remove the cable spring from the pulley bracket. Once you eliminate the washers and spring lock pins, you can now remove the existing belt.

Removing the current belt

For you to achieve this on some lawn mower models, you must remove the cutting deck. Remove the washer and spring pin from the deck bracket. This should enable you to remove the belt. You can now roll the old belt around the pulley and then slide the deck from beneath the lawnmower. Loosen the screws that attach the belt shields. Use a wrench to remove the bolts on the pulleys.

Put the new belt

Before you proceed with this, it is important to clean some of the components, such as the pulleys. You should then use the old belt pattern for you to install the new belt on the John Deere lawnmower. Use the wrench to tighten the bolts on the pulleys. You can then tighten the belt shields over the pulleys using screws. Once you have put the new belt in, you should grease it to extend the life of the drive pulleys.

Slide the cutting deck

At this point, you should now reattach the cutting deck. Take your time to fasten the drive rods correctly before sliding the cutting deck beneath this lawnmower. Confirm if the new belt is working properly and that there is no movement restriction. You should also ensure that the new belt is not touching any other components of the lawnmower.

Check all connections

Before you start the lawn mower’s engine, you should first check all the connections. Reattaching the last components should only take you a few more minutes. You should put the lift links and rear draft arm on the deck. You can then slide the drive cable below the brake rod and belt. You can then pull the drive cable forward then use a spring clip to secure it to the frame. Once you reattach the spark plug cable, you should then start the engine.

Here are some of the belts that you can get for a John Deere lawnmower

Conclusion

The drive belt of the John Deere lawnmower connects this machine’s engine with the blades and wheels. When the belt gets damaged or wears out, it needs replacements. Follow the steps we have highlighted above for you to replace it.

FAQs

What makes the belt in my lawnmower keep on coming off?

The tension on the belt could be weak. Wear and tear can also make the belt stretch.

What signs can tell that the lawnmower belt is not working correctly?

Check out for signs like uneven cutting, vibrations, or noisy blades.

The post How to put a belt on a John Deere lawnmower appeared first on A Good Garden.

To maintain this type of grass, you need to water it, apply mulch, weed, and trim it from time to time. You should also treat root rot if there are signs of this condition on monkey grass. Read on!

Introduction to Monkey grass

Monkey grass, also known as liriope, comes in different varieties. You can find certain varieties that tend to produce purple or white blooms in certain seasons. When the leaves of monkey grass are exposed to sunlight, they become greener. This type of grass grows up to 18 inches, but the clumping type can spread to about 12 inches.

You can either grow spreading or clumping monkey grass. Spreading monkey grass is ideal for large areas in a yard. If you need a good border plant that can distinguish a walkway and garden, you should choose the clumping monkey grass. As the name suggests, this is the type of monkey grass that clumps.

Monkey grass has a lot of good characteristics that make people plant it. For instance, it tolerates extreme heat conditions and drought. Apart from this, the type of grass is versatile since it can survive on different soil types.  Unlike other types of grass, monkey grass does not suffer from a lot of conditions and diseases. It can survive foot traffic and damage from animals and insects.

Taking care of Monkey grass

Monkey grass is a low-maintenance type of grass that you can enjoy planting in your yard. Pay attention to the following.

Watering

Once you have planted this type of grass, you should water it weeks after this. It does not need so much water. During extremely dry conditions, consider watering monkey grass more often.

Weed

You can hand pull any weeds that grow around monkey grass. Avoid spraying this perennial grass. You should weed this type of grass throughout the growing season.

Trim

Closely monitor the monkey grass as it grows around your yard and trim it from time to time. Though cutting back this grass is not a must, it is advisable. This is because the leaves start aging with time and developing some brown spots. These spots can reduce the appeal in your yard. Once you trim the monkey grass, you should expect new leaves to grow, especially in spring.

You should trim monkey grass in late winter before the appearance of new shoots. Doing this late can lead to the development of dull tips. The process of trimming monkey grass is simple since you can do this through a weed eater or mower. When using a mower, you should use the highest setting. Alternatively, you can also hand trim monkey grass when you want a delicate approach. Make use of clippers for you to trim the leaves down to three inches.

Mulch

Once you trim monkey grass, you should then apply at least 2 inches of mulch. This can ward off any weeds around this type of grass. You should place some mulch around the base of monkey grass to minimize sunlight getting to the soil.

Treat root rot

When the roots of this type of grass stay in moist soil for a long time, they start rotting. You can tell this from the discoloration of the plant. The tips of the leaves tend to turn yellow. If monkey grass in your lawn is showing such signs, you should treat root rot. An organic fungicide can help you kill pathogens in monkey grass. Ensure you dilute this fungicide with the right amount of water before using it on the grass. Adding more mulch to the plant’s base can also minimize the risk of root rot in monkey grass.

Here is a summary of caring for monkey grass

Conclusion

The robust nature of monkey grass allows it to survive in different weather conditions. This type of grass can bring life into flowerbeds and cover any sparse areas of the garden. If you have just planted this type of grass, you should follow the steps above to maintain it properly.

FAQs

How can I control pests on monkey grass?

The most common pests that attach to this type of grass are snails and snugs. You can control them using bait.

Can monkey grass thrive in a dry climate?

Yes. Since this type of grass does not need so much water, it can still look evergreen in such climatic conditions.

The post How to care for monkey grass appeared first on A Good Garden.

Fertilizing the lawn provides it with the necessary nutrients it needs to grow well. You should, however, know when to fertilize it to get the best results.  In a year, you can fertilize the lawn between 4 and 6 times. Here is more!

The factors to consider as focus on fertilization frequency

To understand the frequency of fertilizing a lawn, you have to consider all the relevant factors. Some of them include the type of grass you have, the type of fertilizer you use, application times, how you apply this fertilizer, and how often you water the lawn. All these determine how the lawn will turn out after some time.

Frequency of fertilizing the lawn

According to experts, every homeowner needs to fertilize their lawns at least four times a year. You should not exceed fertilizing the lawn more than six times annually. Make the first fertilizer application early in the season as the grass begins to grow. This is important since it gives the grass the nutrients that it needs to develop green coloration easily.

You should also apply the fertilizer with a good organic herbicide. Apply the first batch of fertilizer when the soil temperature is about 55 degrees.  This is when grasses sprout and lilacs bloom. If you don’t know the soil temperature, you can measure it using a lawn thermometer. After the first fertilizer application, you should wait for 6-8 weeks to apply the second round of fertilizer on your lawn. You can then repeat the process twice with six weeks in between.

If you tend to forget to fertilize the lawn at the right time, feel free to schedule the applications. Ensure that you fertilize the lawn before summer to give the lawn a boost. If your lawn is established, you can fertilize it up to 4 times every season.

Apart from the frequency of fertilizing, you should remember to fertilize it when the grass is growing rapidly. When you do this, you support the growth cycle of the grass. Avoid over-fertilizing the lawn since this wastes money and increases the risk of burning the grass. Doing this can sap the nutrients in the grass and make it change color. Too much fertilizer is also not friendly to the environment since the pollutant can easily get to local streams.

Apply fertilizer based on the grass type

As you determine how often you should fertilize your lawn, you should also consider the type of climate in your area and the type of grass growing around your property. If, for instance, your lawn has cool-season grasses, you should fertilize it in late spring and early summer. You can fertilize warm-season grasses such as St. Augustine or buffalo grass in spring and then in late summer. Pay close attention to the grass. If, for instance, it looks green and thick, consider skipping feeding. 

The type of fertilizer you should use on the lawn

The market offers different types of fertilizers, including synthetic and organic ones. Organic fertilizers are better since these are natural and they come from animal or plant sources. Synthetic fertilizers are made in a lab. Though synthetic fertilizers can help the grass grow faster, they do not benefit the soil.

Even though organic fertilizers are slow releasing, they help the soil grow strong grass. You should avoid using synthetic fertilizers since they can weaken the soil and prevent the grass from sustaining itself in the absence of these fertilizers.

Check the ingredients in fertilizer before buying one for your lawn. You need to find one with healthy components such as potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen in the right amounts. These primary nutrients are good for the grass. For instance, nitrogen can make a lawn look green fast, while phosphorus promotes root development. Apart from focusing on the type of fertilizer, you should also choose one that does not need the frequent application in a year.

Here are some of the recommended fertilizers that you can get for your lawn

Conclusion

Fertilizing a lawn can keep the grass green for longer. For you to maintain a healthy-looking lawn, you have to know when to fertilize it. You should do this between 6 and 8 times a year. Do not forget other crucial factors such as the type of grass and the type of fertilizer to maintain the lawn properly.

FAQs

Should you water the lawn after fertilizing it?

Yes.  You should do this frequently since the lawn needs a certain amount of water-based on the form of fertilizer you have used.

What macronutrients does a good fertilizer have?

You should get one that has macronutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and protein.

The post How often should I fertilize my lawn? appeared first on A Good Garden.