Here’s a breakdown of the four basic outdoor equipment and skills needed to keep your yard looking sharp.
The longer bars can trim more in each pass but are heavier and more unwieldy to use.
Before you begin trimming, confirm your hedge trimmer is sharp and well lubricated before each use.
Check out the video above to see how the pros do it.
Proper mowing increases the density of the lawn, which in turn decreases weeds.
Each throw in of grass has a recommended mowing height.
Here are some things to remember:
Mow when the grass is dry.
The blades will be upright and less likely to clump when cut.
Keep mower bladessharp and balanced.
Ragged cuts made by dull blades increase the chance of disease and pests.
Change the mowing pattern each time you mow.
Grass develops a grain based on your cutting direction, tending to lean towards the direction you mow.
Alternating the pattern causes more upright growth and helps avoid producing ruts in the lawn.
Otherwise, though, ditch the bag and leave clippings on the lawn unless they form clumps or rows.
This technique returns nutrients and nitrogen to the lawn.
Mow grass higher in shaded areas under trees.
In these areas grass has to compete with tree roots for water and nutrients.
You could evenplant a productive garden.
Like hedge trimmers they are available in gas, corded and cordless models.
Choose a blower that that fits the needs of your yard.
Remember your eye protection and ear protection.
The leaf blower is operated by a variable speed trigger on the handle.
Most blowers have a “cruise control” switch that will help prevent fatigue and give you more control.
Use your blower in one direction and work the debris from the corners in.
For a more angled cut, use the edger feature as shown below.
Flip the trimmer vertical (like an airplane propeller) and work in a straight line.
You’ll kick up dirt and debris but will have a sharp edge when you’re done.
Photos byCharles & Hudson,Husqvarna, andSean Hobson.
