Great lawns are easy to keep

This four-step process, provided by ACO Hardware, is easy and will keep any lawn looking lush and green all summer long.

By Tracey Moro

Is tending to your lawn a chore that you embrace? Thanks to the folks at ACO Hardware, you can buy most anything for your yard. They have four-steps for creating a beautiful lawn. Using their products, and following these steps promises to keep your lawn on track. But before you begin, you must wake your lawn up. Rake it to wake it. Trim your perennials back and get rid of dead grass and debris.

1. In April, before crabgrass germinates, apply a crabgrass preventer to your lawn. This stops crabgrass and weedy grasses before they sprout. Apply when grass is dry and before the temperatures have reached 65 degrees for three or four days.
2. Near Memorial Day, when weeds are just starting to appear, apply a weed and feed to control dandelions, clover and other broadleaf weeds. You should apply in the morning or evening when grass is damp. Or, water lightly before spreading. Do not water or mow for two days after applying.
3. Every six to eight weeks throughout the summer apply lawn fertilizer. This supplies a complete blend of all the nutrients needed to green up lawns. Water immediately after applying and avoid applications during extremely hot weather.
4. After Labor Day apply a fall weed and feed and fall lawn food. Using both products together ensures strong roots next spring and keeps your lawn healthy throughout the winter.