Our lawns have to deal with a lot, from the scorching sun and clay-heavy soil to pet messes and the running feet of our little ones. Over time, all of these factors take a toll. But when exactly should you schedule professional lawn care services? While we always recommend signing up for a routine lawn maintenance program, there are a few tell-tale signs you can watch out for that indicate it’s definitely time for professional lawn treatment.
1. Brown or Yellow Patches
A bright green lawn is what every homeowner strives for, but sometimes, you’ll notice areas that remain brown or yellow no matter how much you water or fertilize. These brown patches are often a sign of underlying problems like fungal infections, pest infestations, or soil nutrient imbalances. Applying more water or fertilizer may temporarily mask the issue but often doesn’t address the root cause.
This is where hiring a lawn care specialist can be beneficial. These experts have the tools and expertise to test your soil, diagnose diseases, and recommend a custom plan to revive the affected areas and make sure the problem doesn’t spread to other areas.
2. Weed Invasions You Can’t Control
Dandelions, crabgrass, clover, and other invasive species can overrun your yard quickly, choking out healthy grass and stealing vital nutrients. Pulling them by hand or applying store-bought solutions often leads to mixed results. If weeds seem to grow back faster and stronger each time you tackle them, it’s a surefire sign you need professional lawn treatment.
Lawn care experts use proven weed control strategies that include pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. These treatments give your grass the upper hand without harming the surrounding soil or plant life.
3. Thin or Bare Areas
A full, thick lawn enhances curb appeal and provides a soft surface for activities, so when you begin to notice thinning or bare spots, you know something’s off. Poor soil structure, lack of essential nutrients, pest damage, or heavy foot traffic can all contribute to patchy grass coverage.
Thankfully, professional lawn care services can address the reasons behind the thinning and prevent further damage. Solutions may include overseeding, aeration, hydroseeding, or specialized fertilizer applications. These techniques fill in bare areas, restore vitality, and promote even growth across your entire yard.
4. Lawn Feels Spongy or Mushy
A healthy lawn should feel springy underfoot but not excessively soft or squishy. If your lawn stays wet for long periods after rainfall, it may be suffering from thatch buildup or poor drainage. Both of these problems prevent air and nutrients from reaching the root zone.
A professional lawn care team can dethatch the lawn and assess drainage issues, restoring balance and preventing future turf decline. They can also recommend appropriate watering schedules to improve soil absorption.
5. Unusual or Sudden Increase in Lawn Pests
While a few insects in your yard are perfectly normal, a sudden influx of pests like grubs, chinch bugs, or armyworms can wreak havoc on your turf. These lawn pests chew through grass roots and create unsightly dead spots that can quickly spread across your property.
If you notice wilting or yellowing blades of grass or see birds constantly pecking at the soil, it’s time to schedule professional lawn care services. These specialists use pest control methods tailored to the specific type of infestation to prevent future outbreaks and protect your lawn’s overall health.
6. Fungal Growth or Mold
Mushrooms, white powdery coatings, and black moldy patches are often the result of overwatering, improper mowing habits, and poor drainage. Unfortunately, when fungal infections take hold, they spread quickly without proper treatment. The good news is that professional lawn care experts understand how to identify the specific type of fungus present and apply the right fungicide while correcting the environmental factors that allowed the growth to occur in the first place.
7. Grass Isn’t Responding to DIY Treatments
If you’ve tried seeding, fertilizing, watering, and applying weed control products on your own but your lawn still looks tired or unkempt, these are glaring signs you need professional lawn care. Experts in the field have access to commercial-grade products that provide results that go far beyond what the sprays at your local garden center or hardware store can provide. With a customized solution from a professional with years of experience, you can enjoy results that last season after season and year after year.
8. You Simply Don’t Have the Time
Sometimes, the most obvious reason to seek professional lawn care services is because your life is already packed. Between work, kids, and errands, it’s hard to find time for the lawn. If keeping up with lawn care feels like a burden or you find yourself falling behind on seasonal tasks, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local experts.
Get Professional Lawn Care From Lawn Specialties
You already have a busy schedule, and it’s okay if you don’t have time to deal with aggressive weeds, brown patches, or pest infestations. Our team can take care of everything for you, from managing fertilizer applications to scheduling pest control and disease treatments. We’ll develop a customized plan that addresses your lawn’s specific needs and keeps it looking great throughout the growing season. With our team on the job, you can spend your free time actually enjoying your outdoor space rather than constantly working on it.
If you’ve noticed any problems that could be addressed with professional lawn care services, contact Lawn Specialties today. We’re ready to bring your lawn back to life!
