What do landscapers spray on lawns?

Maintaining a mint lawn requires more than regular mowing and watering. Professional landscapers often use various sprays to keep the grass green, healthy, and pest-free. 

Understanding what these sprays are and how they work can give homeowners a better appreciation for the expertise involved in lawn care. In this article, we'll delve into the different types of sprays used by landscapers and their purposes.

Herbicides: Keeping the weeds at bay

Selective herbicides target specific weeds

Selective herbicides are designed to kill distinct types of weeds without harming the grass. They are particularly useful for maintaining a lawn's health and appearance by focusing on unwanted plants like dandelions or clover while leaving the grass intact.

Non-selective herbicides eliminate all vegetation

When a landscaper needs to clear an area of all vegetation, non-selective herbicides come into play. These powerful sprays kill any plant they come in contact with, making them ideal for preparing a site for new planting or tackling overgrown areas. Non-selective herbicides are often used in areas where complete vegetation removal is necessary, such as before laying new sod or starting a new garden bed.

Pre-emergent herbicides prevent sprouting

Landscapers use pre-emergent herbicides to stop weeds before they start. These sprays create a barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating, virtually diminishing the number of weeds appearing later. Landscapers can significantly reduce the labour and cost associated with post-emergent weed control by applying pre-emergent herbicides.

Post-emergent herbicides kill existing weeds

Once weeds have started to grow, post-emergent herbicides kill them. These are typically applied directly to the weeds' leaves, where they are absorbed and transported throughout the plant to eliminate them. Post-emergent herbicides are essential in maintaining a weed-free lawn, ensuring that any unwanted plants that manage to sprout are quickly dealt with.

Organic herbicides: Natural weed control

Organic herbicides are available for those looking for a more environmentally friendly solution. These products use natural ingredients to control weeds, making them safer for pets, children, and wildlife. Organic herbicides are gaining popularity as more homeowners seek to diminish their environmental impact while maintaining a healthy, weed-free lawn.

Pesticides: Protecting your lawn from pests

Insecticides target harmful insects

Insecticides control a variety of harmful insects that can damage a lawn. Common targets include grubs, chinch bugs, and caterpillars, which can cause significant harm if left unchecked. Using insecticides, landscapers can protect the grass from these destructive pests and ensure the lawn remains lush and healthy.

Fungicides control fungal diseases

Fungal diseases like brown patches and dollar spots can quickly ruin a lawn's appearance. Fungicides are used to prevent and control these diseases, keeping the grass healthy and vibrant. Regular application of fungicides can help maintain the lawn's aesthetic appeal while preventing the spread of harmful fungi.

Nematicides manage root-damaging nematodes

Nematodes are infinitesimal worms that live in the soil and can damage grass roots. Nematicides manage these pests, ensuring that the lawn remains healthy and robust from below the surface. By controlling nematode populations, landscapers can prevent the root damage that often leads to weakened and unhealthy grass.

Rodenticides control digging rodents

Rodents like moles and voles can create unsightly tunnels and holes in a lawn. Rodenticides help control these pests, protecting the lawn from further damage. Effective rodent stopping is crucial for maintaining a smooth, even lawn surface and preventing the extensive damage these animals can cause.

Biopesticides use natural methods to combat pests

Biopesticides are derived from natural materials and offer a less toxic option for pest control. These sprays use natural enemies of pests, like beneficial bacteria or fungi, to control lawn pests in an eco-friendly way. Biopesticides are an excellent choice for homeowners concerned about traditional pesticides' environmental impact and looking for a sustainable alternative.

Fertilisers: Feeding your lawn essential nutrients

Nitrogen fertilisers boost leaf and stem growth

Nitrogen is a paramount nutrient for grass, promoting lush, green growth. Nitrogen fertilisers are commonly used to keep lawns looking vibrant and healthy. Regularly applying nitrogen fertilisers ensures the grass has the nutrients it needs to grow strong and resilient.

Phosphorus fertilisers support root development

Phosphorus is essential for strong root growth. Fertilisers containing phosphorus help ensure the grass develops a robust root system, which is critical for overall lawn health. Strong roots are the foundation of a healthy lawn, allowing the grass to access water and nutrients more efficiently.

Potassium fertilisers enhance plant health

Potassium helps grass withstand stress from drought, disease, and extreme temperatures. Using potassium fertilisers can improve the overall resilience of the lawn. By enhancing the grass's ability to cope with adverse conditions, potassium fertilisers contribute to a healthier and more durable lawn.

Slow-release fertilisers provide steady nutrients

Slow-release fertilisers gradually release nutrients over time, providing a steady supply to the grass. This reduces the risk of nutrient burn and ensures continuous feeding. Slow-release fertilisers are particularly beneficial for busy homeowners who may need more time to apply fertilisers frequently.

Organic fertilisers improve soil health

Organic fertilisers, made from natural materials like compost or manure, feed the grass and improve soil structure and health, leading to long-term benefits for the lawn. By enriching the soil with organic matter, these fertilisers promote a thriving ecosystem that supports healthy grass growth.

Growth regulators: Managing lawn growth

Slow grass growth to reduce mowing

Growth regulators can slow down grass growth, reducing the need for frequent mowing. This is especially useful for maintaining large areas or during times when regular mowing isn't feasible. By using growth regulators, landscapers can save time and labour while maintaining a neat appearance.

Maintain uniform grass height

These products help maintain a more uniform grass height, creating a neater and more professional appearance. They're often used on golf courses and sports fields where consistent grass height is essential. Uniform grass height looks better and provides a smoother surface for recreational activities.

Encourage denser turf

Growth regulators can promote lateral growth, resulting in denser and more robust turf. This not only looks better but can also help crowd out weeds. Dense turf is more resistant to weed invasion, diminishing the need for herbicides and other weed control measures.

Minimise seed head growth

Growth regulators help maintain a cleaner and more uniform lawn by minimising the growth of seed heads. Seed heads can be unattractive and detract from the overall appearance of the grass. Reducing their growth helps keep the lawn looking its best.

Enhance root development

These sprays can also enhance root development, leading to a healthier and more resilient lawn. Strong roots are essential for the grass to withstand environmental stresses and to access the water and nutrients it needs to thrive.

Soil conditioners

Aerate compacted soil for better absorption

Soil conditioners help break up compacted soil, improving its structure and permitting for better water and nutrient absorption. This is essential for healthy grass growth. Landscapers can ensure the grassroots can access the air and water they need by aerating the soil.

Adjust soil pH for optimal growth

The pH level of the soil can particularly affect grass health. Soil conditioners can adjust the pH to optimal levels, ensuring the grass can access the nutrients it needs. Maintaining the correct pH level is crucial for nutrient uptake and lawn health.

Add organic matter to improve the texture

Adding organic weight to the soil improves its texture and fertility, promoting better grass growth and health. Organic matter sweetens soil structure, increases water retention, and supports beneficial microbial activity, all contributing to a healthier lawn.

Incorporate beneficial microbes

Soil conditioners that include beneficial microbes can boost soil health by enhancing microbial activity, which is crucial for nutrient cycling and soil fertility. Beneficial microbes play a key role in breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients that the grass can use.

Enhance drainage in heavy soils

Soil conditioners can improve drainage in areas with heavy clay soils, preventing water logging and promoting healthier grass growth. Improved drainage also helps prevent root diseases and ensures that the grassroots have access to oxygen.

Weed and feed: Herbicides and fertilisers

Kills weeds while fertilising the lawn

Weed and feed products offer the convenience of killing weeds while simultaneously fertilising the grass, providing a two-in-one solution for lawn care. This dual action simplifies lawn maintenance and ensures that weed control and fertilisation are addressed in one step.

Saves time with dual action

Using a weed and feed product saves time and effort by combining two essential lawn care tasks into one application. Homeowners can achieve a healthy, weed-free lawn with less effort, making these products a popular choice.

Encourages healthy, weed-free grass

By eliminating weeds and providing nutrients, these products encourage the growth of healthy, weed-free grass. The result is a lawn that looks better and is more enjoyable to spend time on.

Easy to apply with visible results

Weed and feed products are leisurely to apply and often produce visible results quickly, making them a popular choice for homeowners. Their convenience and effectiveness make them a staple in many lawn care routines.

Available in organic options

For those seeking environmentally friendly options, organic weed and feed products offer a natural approach to lawn care. These products use natural ingredients to control weeds and nourish the grass, providing an eco-friendly solution.

Liquid aeration

Breaks up compacted soil

Liquid aeration sprays break up compacted soil without mechanical aeration tools, making the process easier and more convenient. This method is less labour-intensive and can be done quickly with a simple spray application.

Improves root penetration

Liquid aeration improves soil structure, allowing roots to penetrate deeper and promoting more robust and healthier grass. Deeper roots can access water and nutrients better, leading to a more resilient lawn.

Enhances water retention

These sprays can also enhance water retention in the soil, diminishing the need for constant watering. Improved water retention ensures the grass can access moisture even during dry periods, promoting consistent growth.

Boosts nutrient absorption

Improved soil structure and root health lead to better nutrient absorption, ensuring the grass gets the nutrients it needs to thrive. Enhanced nutrient uptake supports lush, green growth and overall lawn health.

Simple spray application

Liquid aeration products are easy to apply, requiring only a simple spray application, which can be done quickly and efficiently. This convenience makes liquid aeration an attractive option for busy homeowners.

Conclusion: The science behind a healthy lawn

Professional landscapers use a variety of sprays to retain the health and appearance of your lawn. Each product serves a specific purpose, from herbicides and pesticides to fertilisers and growth regulators. 

By understanding these applications, homeowners can better appreciate the science and expertise in achieving a lush, green lawn. Consider consulting with a professional landscaping supplier for optimal lawn care to choose the best products for your specific needs.