How to Prepare Your Yard for Lawn Aeration and Overseed

Lawn aeration in Omaha, Nebraska by EcoScapes Lawn Care

Autumn is synonymous with earthy tones, hoodies, and pumpkin-flavored sweets. It’s also well-known as the best time of the year to aerate and overseed your lawn.

After a scorching summer, all that cool weather translates to ideal growing conditions for your lawn. The most essential things to concentrate on in the fall are repairing any damage from July and August, preparing for the winter, and preparing your grass for a lush spring. There are several things you can do for your lawn this time of year, but none offer the many benefits of lawn aeration.

In this article, we are going to focus on preparing your lawn for aerating and overseeding.

At the very least once a year, your turf should be aerated and overseeded. Preparing your lawn for aeration and overseeding can help you finish the growing season strong and get your yard ready for next year.

Let’s take a look at the best ways to get your lawn ready for fall aeration.

3 Steps to Prepare for Fall Lawn Aeration and Overseeding in Omaha

There are a few things you can do to prepare your lawn for aeration and overseeding. To begin, mowing your grass at a lower height is strongly recommended. Then, any objects or buildings that may be in the way of the aerator should be marked, and finally, watering should be adjusted to ensure that the soil is neither too wet nor too dry.

Let’s go over the process in greater depth.

Step 1: Mow Your Lawn Shorter Than Usual

You should start mowing your grass a little shorter a few weeks before aeration and seed planting. Most grasses in Nebraska thrive when they are managed at a height of no less than 3 1/2 inches. However, in the fall, we recommend cutting your grass to a height of 3 inches or less.

There are two reasons why we advise homeowners to do so. For starters, shorter turf will make it easier for seed and fertilizer to reach the soil and make direct contact with it. Second, it is suggested that no mowing be done for at least three to four weeks following aerating and overseeding. Reducing the height of your grass can help you get better results when it’s aerated, and it’ll save you from having a forest outside your house as the grass grows in the days after.

It is preferable to lower the mower blades in phases rather than all at once to reduce the stress that the lower height may create. Cutting too much grass at once can be harmful to your lawn. Gradually lowering the mower blades over a period of a few weeks allows the grass to adjust to the decreased height.

Step 2: Adjust Your Watering Schedule

Watering your grass is a delicate job that is hard to master, especially when the weather changes often. Watering any cool-season grass over the summer months leading up to fall aeration and planting is critical for its health.

Aeration is difficult in hard and dry soils, and seed germination is nearly impossible. Before aerating your goal should be soft but not muddy or excessively mushy to walk on. Lawn aerators are very heavy and when there’s a lot of water in the yard, they can sink or cause ruts in the lawn.

Prepare your system to run three to five times a day after your seed is planted. Remember to moisten your fresh seed to ensure proper germination. Soaking can cause your seed to wash away.

Lawn Overseeding in Omaha Nebraska by EcoScapes Lawn Care

Step 3: Flag Sprinkler Heads and any Obstacles

Because it is the only way to potentially avoid significant damage, this is arguably the most critical step in preparing your lawn for aeration.

Most core aerators penetrate the soil to a depth of three to five inches (depending on the moisture and nature of the soil). Because core aerators are strong and heavy equipment, any obstacles within five to six inches of the lawn’s surface may be damaged if not properly marked.

Most home supply stores provide flagging markers for marking your lawn.

Items linked with an irrigation system placed in the ground are one of the most typical obstacles in a lawn that need to be marked. Sprinkler heads, for example. Sprinkler heads are placed along the edge of the turf and possibly in the center of the lawn (it depends on the size of the lawn, as well as the layout of the irrigation zones). You must run each zone and set a flag next to the sprinkler heads to flag them. Sprinklers located within flowerbeds do not need to be marked. Only the objects that are within your yard’s perimeter. Take, for instance, a valve box.

Valve boxes are around the size of a plate and might be difficult to find. Check your lawn again, and any valve boxes you find should be marked on both sides.

Invisible fence lines for dogs (for dog training and keeping your pet in your yard), cables, wires, and pipelines are other items that should be marked. These may have been buried deep enough originally for and then revealed due to erosion. Underground dog fences, irrigation pipelines, lighting lines, and satellite cables are all examples of lines that can potentially be damaged.

Your lawn aeration and seeding provider cannot be held liable for any damages if they are unaware of a potential impediment on your lawn. If you’re having problems identifying these items in your yard, contact your lawn care provider in Omaha, and they may offer this as an extra service.

Aeration and overseeding in the early fall are crucial aspects of lawn upkeep, and there are actions that homeowners can do to ensure that the process goes well. Preparing for early fall aeration and overseeding may be accomplished by correct mowing, watering, and marking.

If you have any questions about how to prepare your lawn, contact our staff at EcoScapes Lawn Care.

How Much Does Lawn Aeration Cost in Omaha, NE

Lawn aeration near me by EcoScapes Lawn Care

By enhancing access to air, water, and nutrients, annual lawn aeration enables grass to produce strong, healthy roots. It’s a cost-effective strategy to assure a lush, healthy lawn, with prices ranging from $60 to $100 and up with a national average of roughly $130.

  • Range in Nebraska: $60 to $100 and up
  • National Average: $130


Aerating a lawn involves removing plugs of dirt to relieve soil compaction, allowing grass roots to spread out, grow stronger, and enhance the lawn’s health. Poking holes in the lawn with spikes or spraying a liquid aerating product over the lawn are two more options for aeration. The cost of aerating is relatively reasonable, and it is one of the best things you can do to keep a healthy lawn at a low cost when compared to other lawn management charges like installing a sprinkler system or having a tree removed.

The size of the lawn is the main factor affecting the cost—a lawn service may charge a base fee in addition to a square-footage price. Aerating a small lawn might cost as little as $60 on the low end, while aerating a large lawn may cost $300 or more.

Furthermore, the cost will vary based on the layout of the property and distance the company needs travel to reach the property. These hidden charges might increase (or decrease) the overall price.

How to Estimate the Cost of Lawn Aeration

A number of factors influence the cost of aerating a lawn, and in most situations, a representative from the company will want to inspect the site before providing a quote. You may aerate your lawn yourself by renting, purchasing, or spraying on a liquid aerator product, but for many people, it’s more cost effective to hire a professional lawn care service to do it.

  1. Consider the size of the lawn first when estimating the cost of aeration. Aeration costs roughly $0.006 to .012 per square foot on average. Multiply the square feet of your lawn by the price to obtain an estimate of how much aerating your lawn will cost.  Based on typical square foot pricing in Nebraska, if your lawn is 8,000 square feet, you can anticipate paying between $70 and $85.00.
  2. Inquire about fixed pricing. Some companies charge flat fees for standard-sized yards, which range from $65 to $95 on average, depending on the company. If the service is familiar with the location and the sizes of the yards in a particular development, a predetermined charge may frequently apply.
  3. Check to see if the business charges by the hour. Companies that bill by the hour are likely to set a minimum hourly rate, such as two hours, and then charge an hourly price after that. Whether the lawn is distinctive in some way—if it’s exceptionally steep or if there are other impediments in the way of the aeration process—a firm is more likely to charge by the hour. Hourly wages range from $50 to $85 per hour on average.
  4. You need to consider any extra services you’d want to have performed at the same time. Aeration is frequently conducted prior to overseeding a lawn, and by having both completed at the same time, you may be able to negotiate package pricing that is cheaper than if you had each service performed separately.
  5. You should also take into account travel time. A lawn care provider may have to travel from a neighboring community to individuals living in remote areas without professional lawn care, and the business may charge a trip fee.

You’ll have a fair notion of how much lawn aeration will cost once you’ve gathered all of the potential charges.

Contact us today for a free lawn aeration quote! 

Lawn aeration in Omaha by EcoScapes Lawn Care

Lawn Aeration Cost Calculation Factors

The cost of lawn aeration services varies greatly from one lawn to the next, depending on the size of your yard and where you reside. Consider the following aspects that will likely effect the ultimate cost while looking for low-cost options.

Location

The cost of living and the current rate of labor are influencing variables in lawn care services in any region. Because the cost of living is lower in rural areas, lawn services can be much less expensive than in big metropolises. Local taxes and company fees might also change, affecting the price since those costs—known as “overhead”—are passed on to the buyer.

Size of Lawn

In general, the larger the yard, the lower the cost per square foot for aerating. Lawn service businesses frequently charge by the square foot in increments. For example, having the first 1,500 square feet of grass aerated may cost $0.02 per square foot, then $0.01 per square foot for the next 10,000 square feet. When it comes to large yards (measured in acres), the overall cost per square foot will typically be significantly lower; anticipate paying between $150 and $250 per acre for aeration.

Preparation

To work effectively, aeration equipment requires a smooth, clean yard. There may be an additional service charge applied to the bill if the lawn care service needs to pick up bushels of dry leaves or take away fallen branches and debris. Learn more about preparing your yard for fall lawn aeration and overseed.

Slope

Because navigating steep slopes with a lawn aerator takes longer, expect to pay more for those areas to be aerated. If a significant portion of the lawn is sloping, lawn companies who normally charge a set cost may switch to a per-hour rate.

Method of Aeration Affects the Cost

The cost of lawn aeration also varies depending on the method used by the service provider. Core aeration, which provides the most complete advantages, is the most expensive since it necessitates the use of a machine that extracts plugs from the soil and ejects them onto the surface of the grass. This necessitates a more complicated apparatus, resulting in a larger equipment investment. Spike aerators are less expensive and work on a simpler foundation than core aerators.

Liquid Lawn Aeration

Liquid lawn aeration entails spraying an enzyme-rich solution over the grass. At ground level, the enzymes begin degrading thatch, a thick coating of dead grass that accumulates at the base of the grass blades. Thatch obstructs airflow and decreases drainage. For a modest (5000 square foot) lawn, liquid aeration can cost as low as $45, or $0.009 per square foot. Liquid aeration is less expensive since it does not require heavy machinery, but it will not relieve soil compaction as well as core aeration.

Spike Aeration

Spike aeration involves putting 4- to 5-inch spikes into the existing ground to improve drainage, but unlike core aeration, no soil is removed. It is ideal for lawns with sandy soil, which doesn’t compress as much as clay-based soils. It costs more than liquid aeration but less than core aeration on average, with prices ranging from $55 to $110 for a 10,000-square-foot lawn.

Core Aeration

Because the equipment needed to dig and remove plugs from an existing lawn is generally more expensive than spike aeration or lawn-spraying equipment, the overall cost is greater, as seen by the average price increase of 15 to 25 percent above spike aeration.

How to Cut the Cost of Lawn Aeration

Because the equipment needed to dig and remove plugs from an existing lawn is generally more expensive than spike aeration or lawn-spraying equipment, the overall cost is greater, as seen by the average price increase of 15 to 25 percent above spike aeration.

How much does lawn aeration cost in Omaha, Nebraska

Having a healthy and green lawn shouldn’t break the bank—and it won’t if you keep up with lawn irrigation and upkeep. Keeping turf grass healthy is easier, and less expensive, than attempting to recover it if it’s weak or injured, so stick to a regular watering, mowing, and fertilizing plan. Annual lawn aeration is an additional cost to consider if you want to keep your grass looking green. Try these suggestions to get the most bang for your buck.

Obtain many estimates. Make it clear to the service that you’re searching for numerous estimates straight away. When a firm knows you’ll be contacting other businesses, they’ll be more inclined to give you a better price. Even if you’ve previously used the business, let them know you’re expecting their best pricing and that you’re collecting other quotes.

Make an all-inclusive offer. If a client is eager to hire them for more projects, it makes sense for businesses to reduce their rates on certain services. By negotiating an agreement with the company for continuing lawn maintenance, such as mowing, tree trimming, and overseeding, you may be able to save up to 20% or more off the normal price of lawn aeration.

Specials may be found on the company’s website. Lawn care providers are always looking for new clients, and their website is a fantastic location to look for discounts. Limited-time promotions or introductory rates are popular during holidays such as Father’s Day, Independence Day, and Memorial Day. You might be able to discover printable discounts or save money by booking a lawn care service online.

Why and When to Dethatch Your Omaha Lawn

Why and When to Dethatch Your Lawn in Omaha NE

Does Your Lawn Need to be Dethatched?

Suspect your lawn may need to be dethatched? Before you proceed you should know that not every lawn requires power raking or “dethatching”. However, whenever thatch has built up in the lawn you should strongly consider it. Thatch is harmful to your turf and there comes a point when getting rid of that thatch becomes essential for your yard’s health. Here is some important information to consider if you are thinking about having your lawn dethatched.

When to Dethatch Your Lawn in Omaha, NE

Before you do anything, you should check to see how thick your lawn’s thatch layer is. You can do this by taking a spade or a garden trowel and digging out a small wedge from the soil. You can then get an idea of just how much thatch is present. If the layer of thatch exceeds 1 inch, then it is time to consider dethatching your lawn or hiring a professional dethatching service to take care of it for you. You may have already noticed the signs before testing such as weak growth and dull grass color.

Keep in mind, lawn services such as aerating, overseeding, and dethatching in Nebraska should be done during the cooler seasons which means the turf is in peak growing season. In Omaha, where Kentucky bluegrass is the most prominent grass type this usually means in the Spring or Fall. You want to do it during this time of the year because active grass growth is necessary for the instant and speedy recovery of the lawn.

One essential thing to keep in mind is that you should never dethatch your lawn when it is under stress or dormant which lawns usually are here in the middle of Summer. The process of dethatching a lawn at this time can cause damage to your yard which can take months or even years to recover.

Customers sometimes confuse the difference between dethatching their lawn and having it aerated. It is important to keep in mind that these are two completely different processes, and each serves its own purpose in the overall health of your lawn. Lawn aeration removes 3-4” plugs from the soil that does include the thatch layer, but these cores are only pulled sporadically throughout the yard. There are many benefits of lawn aeration, but it is not the best option for removing thatch. Performing the two services in tandem will yield the best result as aerating loosens up compacted soil and turf, therefore, helping to prepare the lawn for dethatching. This also helps speed up the breakdown of existing thatch. Learn more about.

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How to Dethatch Your Lawn

When it comes to removing the thatch from your lawn, we usually recommend calling a professional lawn service because of the backbreaking labor and expensive equipment that is required. Excessive thatch can require more than one dethatching because attempting to remove it all at once can result in damage to the grass.

Here are the three common ways of dethatching a lawn.

  • Manual Dethatching: You can purchase dethatching rakes which are short tined rakes that are specifically designed to dig deep into your turf and pull out the thatch. This is a cheap option when there is only light thatch but be prepared, it is hard work.
  • Power Rakes: Power rakes are the next step up and by far the most common piece of equipment used. Power rakes are more like lawn mowers that have rotating rake-like tines that go deep into the turf and pull out the thatch. Before using a power rake, you will want to make sure that your lawn is healthy enough to recover.
  • Vertical Mowers: These are also known as verticutters as they have vertical blades that go deep into the soil and pull out the thatch. These are usually only used when thatch layers are extremely thick. Vertical mowers are ideal for lawns that are in need of renovation as you can adjust the blades depth and pull up most of the top layer of nutrient deprived soil as well.

Professional Lawn Dethatching Service

Dethatching is a job that no one looks forward to, but it is a necessary chore for a healthy vibrant lawn. It also usually requires expensive equipment that most homeowners don’t just have lying around. Of course, there is always the manual raking option, but come on, who has the time or desire to be out raking their lawn all day. If you think your lawn may need to be power raked, aerated, or even both, give us a call and we’ll be happy to take a look and provide you with recommendations and provide you with a free estimate.

The Benefits of Lawn Aeration

Benefits of Lawn Aeration in Omaha NE by EcoScapes Lawn Care

Looking after your lawn can be a backbreaking task as it requires maintenance throughout the year. Mowing, fertilizing, and watering are just some of the things that must be performed frequently.

The majority of lawns in Omaha have clay-based soil underneath. They can accommodate considerable water and are fertile as well, but they can pose problems. To start, clay does not absorb water very well and becomes even less absorbent the drier it gets. Hard, dry clay soil can lead to drainage concerns, and this is one of the benefits of lawn aeration.

What is Core Aeration?

Aeration occurs when small holes are dug in the lawn using a machine called a lawn aerator. The holes are in the shape of cylindrical cores and are generally 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches in depth.

As a result of the climate in Nebraska, lawn aeration is typically carried out in the fall season. One reason being the summers are dry, which means the soil is usually dry and hard. Nebraska summers are also very stressful for your lawn, so we try to avoid adding any additional stress this time of year.

Lawn Aeration Service Near Me - EcoScapes Lawn Care

Advantages of Lawn Aeration

If you live in Omaha Nebraska or nearby, then it is recommended that you aerate your lawn annually for the best results as aeration has several distinct benefits.

For instance, aeration enables the soil to loosen up and decreases compaction. This means the soil becomes more absorbent to both water and nutrients thus the roots can grow deeper and stronger. This is necessary because quality grass cannot germinate properly in soil that is compact and hard.

Another advantage of core aeration is that it helps reduce the amount of accumulated grass clippings commonly known as thatch. If you see an abundance of grass clippings on the surface and roots beneath it, that qualifies as thatch.

Thatch begins to crowd and smother the lawn, which is an invitation for bugs and pests to wreak havoc as they thrive when there is excessive thatching.

Furthermore, when looking after your lawn, it is important to look beyond the surface. The roots are the lifeblood of your turf, and the soil is the lifeblood of the roots. Lawn aeration improves the condition of both the soil and the roots drastically. This annual process allows more air, water, and nutrients to make their way to the roots and deeper into the soil.

Yet another reason why lawn aeration is highly recommended is because of the cylindrical holes the process creates. The holes are ideal for overseeding as they create the perfect climate for seeds to germinate. The seeds are held in place within the holes so they cannot run off and moisture retention is much better. Ultimately, this results in greater germination which contributes to lush, green grass in your lawn.

Aeration is also helpful because it loosens the soil and lowers the risk of runoff. Compaction is reduced significantly, which happens from the use of mowers and day-to-day use. When water is allowed to penetrate the soil, it helps eliminate puddling and therefore runoff.

And lastly, lawns are more resistant to drought if core aeration is executed on a consistent basis.

The benefits mentioned above make it clear why aerating your lawn is mandatory for lawns in Omaha, NE, and the surrounding areas and why you should hire a top-rated lawn aeration service like EcoScapes Lawn Care to perform the task.

The cost of lawn aerating is relatively reasonable, and it is one of the best things you can do to keep a healthy lawn at a low cost when compared to other yard management charges.

Your Spring Lawn To-Do List

How to to Set Your Lawn up for Success

It’s officially springtime and one of our favorite times of the year here at EcoScapes. We’re just starting to see the promise of new growth on trees and some tulips are peaking out of the ground. It’s also officially time to start giving your lawn lots of love to set it up for a healthy spring and summer. Here’s what should be on your spring lawn care to-do lists.

Spring Cleanup Service Omaha

Spring Lawn Cleanup To-Do List

Tidy Up The Lawn

Grass requires plenty of sun to thrive, so anything on top of it prevents successful growth. Finish raking if you forgot to in the fall, remove tree branches that fell during winter storms, and clean up any toys left out. Now is the perfect time to consider dethatching your Nebraska lawn.

Check Your Supplies

Now is a good time to make sure your tools are in working order. Your lawnmower is quite possibly the most important tool for your yard. Use this guide to see if it is ready for spring. Then, consider this list of other essential lawn tools.

Perform a Soil Test

Is your soil ready? Test the acidity and nutrient levels to determine if the pH is correct for growing.

Spring Lawn Care Tips

  1. Plan Ahead: Once the temperature climbs into the 50’s and 60’s, it will be time to seed your lawn if you didn’t have the chance in the fall. Research what type of grass is appropriate for your yard.
  2. Fertilize: Depending on your grass type, it might be the time to apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer. Our 6 Step lawn fertilization program includes everything your lawn needs for a quick green up.
  3. Aerate and Overseed Bare Patches: Lawn aeration is one of the most critical services to maintaining a healthy yard. Plant grass seed as soon as the soil warms up to allow new grass time to establish itself before summer. Water lightly and frequently until the grass has become well established
  4. Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicide: Now is the time to prevent weeds and crabgrass from growing in your lawn. Consider treating it with a preventative weed killer.

Call EcoScapes for Help With Your Spring Lawn Cleanup.

With our eco-friendly lawn care program, you get six applications of necessary treatments to keep your lawn healthy all year long. For more information, call us today at (402) 671-0453.

Autumn is synonymous with earthy tones, hoodies, and pumpkin-flavored sweets. It’s also well-known as the best time of the year to aerate and overseed your lawn.

After a scorching summer, all that cool weather translates to ideal growing conditions for your lawn. The most essential things to concentrate on in the fall are repairing any damage from July and August, preparing for the winter, and preparing your grass for a lush spring. There are several things you can do for your lawn this time of year, but none offer the many benefits of lawn aeration.

In this article, we are going to focus on preparing your lawn for aerating and overseeding.

At the very least once a year, your turf should be aerated and overseeded. Preparing your lawn for aeration and overseeding can help you finish the growing season strong and get your yard ready for next year.

Let’s take a look at the best ways to get your lawn ready for fall aeration.

8 Lawn Mowing Tips for a Healthier Lawn

Follow These 8 Lawn Care Tips for a Healthier Lawn

Lawn mowing seems easy enough, but every time you mow your grass you’re contributing to the overall failure or prosperity of your yard. Mow the grass correctly and you’ll have a groomed lawn that is healthy, more drought resistant and thick enough to eliminate broadleaf weeds. Mowing incorrectly can cause your lawn to struggle to survive the changing Nebraska seasons. Try to mow often enough so that you are never cutting more than one third of the grass blade with each mowing.

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Avoid Scalping Your Lawn

Make sure to avoid scalping your grass, which means to cut it too short. A scalped lawn will burn which makes it much more vulnerable to weeds and disease. Turf which has been scalped tends to be weaker and more scare which causes the soil to become exposed. One of the biggest contributors to a weed’s success is the exposure of soil which allows the weed seed to germinate and take root. A scalped yard also lets more sunlight reach the weed seedlings which gives them even more of a boost in the germination process. Lawns that are consistently scalped have a weaker root system which creates the perfect environment for serious damage caused by high temperatures and drought.

EcoScapes Lawn Mowing Company in Nebraska

Adjust Mower Height According to Conditions

Adjusting the height of your lawn mower can help your lawn to prosper throughout the different growing seasons. For example, raising the deck in the hot months will allow the grass to remain longer thus helping to protect it from drought, disease, and broadleaf weeds. Taller grass helps provide shade for the soil, which aids in weed prevention and drastically decreases water evaporation. Longer grass also helps to develop deeper, stronger roots, which in turn helps to build a yard that can tolerate drought better. In late fall you’ll want to lower the deck of the mower for the last mowing of the season. This helps to prevent winter kill which is caused by snow matting the grass and causing a mold. A professional lawn service will know the correct height to cut your grass in each for each season. 

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Keep Your Lawn Mower Blade Sharp

Keeping the blade on your lawn mower sharp is critical to the results from each cutting. A sharp lawnmower blade cuts the grass more cleanly while a dull blade essentially tears the grass. The latter creates a jagged, uneven edge on the tip of the grass blade. These tears create the perfect opportunity for pests and disease to enter. Lawns that have been cut with a dull blade will develop a brown or whitish color at the tips of the individual grass blades. Try to make it a habit to sharpen your lawnmower blades at least 3 times during the mowing season. It is also a good idea to walk your property prior to each mowing and remove any branches, stones, or other items. These items can dull your lawnmower blade quickly or worse yet, cause damage to your mower blade or lawn mower itself. You should consider purchasing an extra lawnmower blade in case of damage to your existing. Or better yet, you always have a sharp blade ready to go.

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Switch Up Your Mowing Pattern

You should always try to avoid mowing in the same direction every time you mow your lawn. When you repeatedly mow in the same pattern you are potentially compacting the soil and creating ruts in the lawn. Neither compacted soil nor ruts are good for your yard and can lead to other potential problems such as weeds which thrive in compacted turf.

Mow Your Lawn When It’s Dry

Ideally you only want to mow when the grass is dry. Mowing wet grass doesn’t necessarily harm the turf but does not produce the best results. Wet grass is sticky and heavy which can cause your lawn mower to clog and begin to disperse clumps of wet grass. This in turn is very hard on your mower and also produces an uneven cut. You will want to remove or disperse the grass clumps to avoid damage to the lawn. This just makes more work for yourself, so you are better off waiting until the grass is dry. Wet soil can also be soft and soggy which can cause more rutting from the weight of the lawn mower. If you absolutely have no choice but to mow your lawn when it is wet, try treating the bottom of your lawn mower with oil or a silicone spray to create a slick surface which wet grass cannot stick to. 

EcoScapes Lawn Service | Lawn Mowing Service in Omaha NE | (402) 671-0453

Mulch Your Grass

Mulching is the process of chopping up grass clippings into very fine pieces which creates a degradable substance that can easily be absorbed back into the soil. Mulching can not only save you time, but it can also save you money as well. No more need to buy yard waste bags or pay a separate disposal fee for lawn waste. In addition, the mulched grass clippings can provide up to 25 percent of your yard’s nutrient needs so you can reduce the amount of fertilizer used as well. You won’t need any specialized equipment to mulch but you may want to invest in a good mulching blade. In addition to the cutting edge, mulching blades also have teeth on the top to pulverize the clippings as the blade rotates. This allows the lawn clippings to be absorbed back into the earth more easily. There are also adapter kits available for your mower which supplies a plug to block off the hole where the clippings would normally enter the bag. Mulching your grass is one of the best things you can do for your lawn and for the environment as well.

Lawn Mowing Service in Nebraska - EcoScapes

When you cut your grass or any plant for that matter, it causes a substantial amount of stress. When you mow in the heat of the day the grass losses more water and the lawn can possibly show signs of heat stress. To avoid this try mowing when it is cool outside or when your lawn is under shade. Cool grass losses less moisture and is much quicker to rebound when mowed. It’s also much easier on the individual doing the work.

Mow When It’s Cool

Eco-friendly Lawn Service in Omaha Nebraska by EcoScapes

Use an Eco-friendly Battery Powered Lawn Mower

If you’re in the market for a new mower or just looking for something more environmentally friendly, you should strongly consider purchasing a battery powered lawn mower. Battery powered mowers do not require gas, do not produce fumes or pollution, and are much quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. Most of the battery powered mowers on the market today offer ample power to cut an average lawn at average height. Please note, you may want to purchase an extra battery if you have a large yard. Mowing long or wet grass consumes the battery’s power even quicker, so again, another good reason to have an extra battery charged and ready to go. Make sure to purchase a unit that has a removeable battery. This makes it much easier to just swap out the batteries if one is depleted. If you lawn mower is exposed to freezing temperatures in the offseason, you will want to remove the batteries and bring them into a climate controlled area.

Eco-friendly Fall Lawn Care Tips

How to Create a More Eco-friendly Lawn

Eco-friendly Lawn Care in Nebraska by EcoScapes

A healthy lawn is essential for everyone and property owners can encourage this by making more environmentally conscious decisions with their lawn and landscape care.

Listed are Six Ways You Can Make Your Lawn Eco-friendly:

  • Mulch your grass clippings: Instead of bagging the clippings, mulch them. Doing so allows the clippings to decompose back into the earth, thus providing nutrients which in turn will eliminate the need to add chemicals. It can also help the environment because the production of fertilizers creates pollutants in the atmosphere. Also, fertilizers can often end up in natural waters which can pollute lakes and streams, killing any wildlife that exists there.

 

  • Use electric trimmer’s, blower’s, hedge trimmer’s, edger’s, etc., instead of their small 2 cycle powered predecessors. Did you know that in less than one hour, a 2-cycle engine can create the same amount of pollutants as 11 vehicles. Imagine several of these running at the same time! While we’re not saying you should drop the 2 cycle tools and do the work manually (unless you want to). You should invest in electric lawn and garden tools which will do the same job without all the damaging pollutants a gas-powered one will produce.

 

  • Grow grass suitable to your climate: Do you know where Kentucky bluegrass grows best? Kentucky. Well, and the Midwest. But in warmer states of the country, this type of grass will require extra care and water to give it a chance to survive. So, it’s advisable to do some research into what grass your lawn has. Then to see what it requires before purchasing and applying chemicals that claim to make any grass grow greener and stronger.

 

  • Use yard waste and kitchen compost: Keeping a compost bin in your garden is not only a place where you can throw out your kitchen scraps but a way to add these to a pile of compost. Make sure you turn the compost every few days and in no-time you’ll have high-quality fertilizer. And the best part, it won’t cost you penny.

 

  • Invite insects and worms: Aerating your lawn at least once per year can become a bit of a drag. A natural way of getting the soil the oxygen it needs is to give a colony of worms a new home. Once spreading them throughout the lawn and watering thoroughly, they will work their way into the soil. Ants also do an excellent job of this as well as feeding on harmful insects and distributing seeds too. Yes, the ants can be a nuisance, so you’ll want to keep them under control.

 

  • Water more but less: This means that you should water your lawn more heavily but less frequently. This is because sprinklers are a great way of evenly distributing water consistently; it can have much of its water evaporated before t even touches the lawn. This leads to a high wastage of the natural resource. An easy way around this is to have your sprinkler set to come on after midnight. It is at this time the air is at its coolest. This allows the soil to absorb as much moisture as possible because it is not being evaporated at a fast pace.

5 Must Have Lawn Care Tools for Homeowners

Lawn aeration in Omaha, Nebraska by EcoScapes Lawn Care
5 Must Have Lawn Care Tools

Every homeowner needs a basic set of lawn care tools, especially if you’re the do-it-yourself type. Having the following six lawn care tools close at hand can help you create the lawn and landscape you want. Read on to learn more about the essential items you need.

1. Lawn Mower

First and foremost, you need a lawn mower. There are an infinite number of models out there, so make your choice based on your budget and the size of your lawn. Lawn mowers can have a hefty price tag attached, so the numerous options work in your favor. Mower types range from manual reel mowers (for small lots) to motorized walk-behind models (for average-sized lots) to riding mowers (for larger properties).

2. Pruning Shears

Used mainly for small tree and shrub pruning, a good pair of hand-held pruners should be able to cut through twigs and branches with ease. Lopping pruning shears are used for thicker branches. You can also use shears to cut through twine and burlap. Grass or edging shears are specifically designed to edge garden beds by pushing soil away from the edges of your grass.

3. Rake

Rakes aren’t just for autumn. Use them to clear leaves and debris from your lawn at all times of the year. Spring is a great time to use a rake to clean out gardens to prepare for new growth, while rakes come in handy in the autumn for cleaning up fallen foliage.

4. Shovel

Shovels and spades are vital for planting. Use a shovel to dig holes, smooth soil, and transfer gravel and mulch. Spades (smaller hand-held shovels) are useful for planting and digging up smaller plants.

5. Gloves

Protect your hands from splinters, blisters, thorns, and cuts by protecting them with gloves specifically designed for gardening.

Questions About Using Your Lawn Care Tools?

Contact the experts at EcoScapes today at (402) 671-0453. We’ll help answer any pressing questions you have about lawn care tools or Omaha lawn care in general.

Why Hire a Pet Friendly Lawn Care Service

Environmentally Friendly Lawn Care by EcoScapes

Advantages To Hiring A Pet Friendly Lawn Care Service

Your pets are extended members of your family. You love them and treat them as special as you can. You buy special food, toys, treats, beds, and more to help care for them. However, have you ever considered your Omaha lawn care service? Do you know if it is pet-friendly or are you risking the safety of your precious four-legged family members? 

Hiring an eco-friendly lawn care company in Omaha is easier than you might think. Here at EcoScapes, we provide a variety of lawn care services to help you keep your yard beautiful while protecting your pets. Your lawn is one of the first impressions people have of your home. It is important that it is inviting, appealing, and vibrant. That is exactly what our company provides. However, you also want to make sure that you have a pet-friendly service. Check out below the different advantages to hiring an eco-friendly lawn care service.

Pet Friendly Products

The type of products applied to your lawn can make a huge difference in its appearance. However, it can also be dangerous to your pets. That is why it is important that the lawn care service you go with applies products safely that are not a danger to your animals. Dogs have their faces to the ground when they are outside and it’s important that they do not breathe in toxic chemicals. You also don’t want them eating the grass or digging in the soil that may cause them to have an adverse reaction to the treatment used. 

Protection For Your Pets

Using a eco-friendly lawn service can provide your lawn with protection for your animals. Ticks and fleas wreak havoc on your pets. They can cause adverse reactions such as skin conditions with your pets, irritation, and can even come into your home and harm your family. Working with a lawn care service allows you the extra added protection of having your lawn treated on a regular basis. This treatment is safe for your pets and keeps the pests away. Having a flea infestation in your home is daunting to get rid of. That is why it is critical that you take advantage of services provided to you by your lawn care company to reduce the risk of your pets bringing in uninvited guests.

Controlling Ants

First you need to do some research. You want to ask questions of your potential Omaha lawn care companies. Be sure you check into the chemicals they use, ask about their methods for treating your yard, and make sure that you check previous client reviews. This helps you to know what you’re getting into. 

How Do You Choose A Company?

Ants may not bother your pet but they are a real pest to you. You most likely enjoy outdoor time with your pets. Having ant beds that are crouching in wait can put a damper on your fun. By having your yard treated, you can reduce the risk of stinging ant bites that could cause allergic reactions. It can also help reduce other types of pests in the yard that can reduce your outdoor time. 

EcoScapes

Here in Omaha we have been working with clients just like you for years. We work to make sure your yard is in pristine condition at all times. This gives you a lush and vibrant front and back yard no matter what season there is. We are pet owners ourselves so we ensure that your lawn is taken care of and so are your pets. Here are a few services we provide to help you make sure you have the best lawn possible. 

Core Aeration

This service helps to keep your lawn fresh and vibrant. This service is where we take out plugs from your yard to give it more room to grow. The process is actually needed here in Omaha to help the lawn grow green and vibrant. It is important as it allows the yard to release gases, control buildup of thatch, and reduces water runoff. 

Disease Control

Our pet-friendly lawn treatments allow you to reduce or treat disease in your yard. Lawn disease can cause dead grass and damage the look of your entire property. Our team can diagnose the disease and treat it while protecting your pets in the process. 

Tips For During Treatment

While our chemicals do not affect your pets, there are other tips to keep in mind when having your lawn treated. Be sure to keep your pets inside during the treatment of your lawn. Our chemicals will not hurt them but we do not want to take a chance during spray if they may have an allergy or sensitivity. 

Keep fences and gates locked when the pets may be in the yard. It is important that they are protected at all times during the treatment. Also, make sure that your pet food bowls and water bowls are taken up as well. Treatments can have overspray and you want to ensure that the bowls are protected from any chemicals.

Our team also makes sure to talk with you before we arrive about any pets that you have on the grounds. We want to ensure your family members are safe and that you get the best and most out of your lawn service. 

Choosing an eco-friendly lawn service is easy to do when you work with EcoScapes here in Omaha. Our company has experience in all facets of treating your lawn for pests, disease, and to help it grow vibrant and healthy.You can trust that our team is here to help you get the type of lawn you want while protecting your pets in the process.

Contact our team today and inquire about the pet-friendly services we offer. We treat your family members like our own. Whether you have a diseased yard, need help with maintaining your lawn, or need landscaping, our company is here to help you. Contact us today to get your appointment set for growing a healthy lawn in the beautiful Omaha community.

A Brief Intro to Pet Friendly Lawn Care

Lawn Care Safe for the Environment and Your Pets

When pursuing a lush green, vibrant, and weed free lawn, it is normal to be concerned about the safety and health of your pets and loved ones being exposed to sometimes harmful chemicals. We get it, pets are part of the family too and your choice of a professional lawn care provider is a very important decision. We are pet owners as well and are always on the search for new pet friendly products to integrate into our eco-friendly lawn care programs and services. The good news for all of us pet owners is we no-longer need to sacrifice a beautiful lawn to keep our pets and loved ones safe.

At EcoScapes, we have many pet friendly options available for controlling broad leaf weeds and most of the fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides that we apply are not hazardous to pets or humans. There is however, no reasonable Organic solution for pre-emergent other than the very costly and messy corn gluten. We have developed a reduced chemical hybrid pre-emergent, so it gets the job done with less chemicals, less mess, and less money. These hybrid products are 100% safe after the product has been watered in and had time to dry.

How Long Should We Stay Off the Lawn?

We recommend that children and pets wait until these hybrid pre-emergent applications have been watered in and had time to dry before excessive contact. Don’t worry, it is perfectly safe for your puppies to go potty. We just recommend they don’t spend much time in the lawn before watering. If you can water in the application right away, then everyone is safe to enjoy the yard again after only a few hours. Our lawn care technicians always provide written application specifics and any special instructions if they apply following every application. They will notate the date and time of the treatment as well so if you’re not home you will know exactly when they were there.

Some statistics show that 65% of pet poisonings from lawn fertilizers could have been avoided if the owner had followed the instructions for both application and storage. Hiring a professional eco-friendly lawn care service and following the directions given will eliminate these risks.

Environmentally Friendly Lawn Care by EcoScapes

An Eco-friendly Lawn Care Approach

At EcoScapes, we take an eco-friendly approach to effective pest, insect, and weed control. This eliminates harmful effects on pets, humans, wildlife and the environment. Our focus is to thicken and green your lawn by building it from the soil up. We start with a soil sample which will tell us exactly what it needs. We are then able to deliver the correct nutrients and elements which will naturally reduce weeds and disease. Starting with soil health and getting it in balance means less products are needed to maintain a healthy, weed free lawn. Our “Green” professionals are licensed by the State of Nebraska and individually trained in best practices. Being licensed by the state ensures you that they have studied and been tested on the application of products safely and in recommended amounts, but this test is geared towards the application of chemical based products. Therefore, each of our technicians complete our in-house training on eco-friendly best practices as well as learn the core principles of eco-friendly lawn care.

Who Can I Contact to Learn More?

If you would like to learn more about our eco-friendly lawn care solutions or would simply like to discuss the options available, you can reach us at (402) 671-0453.