Q: What if it rains after my application?

A: Generally speaking, if the herbicide has a chance to sit on the plant for 4-5 hours before raining it will do a good job in controlling the weeds. If it rains right after the application, we will return at no charge to you and re-apply.

Q: Why do I need to water in the application the next day?

A: We ask that you water in the application the next day to ensure the fertilizer gets down to the root structure to be most effective.

Q: Why do I need to keep my mower blade sharp?

A: Keeping the blade sharp will create a nice clean cut on the leaf blade. Having a dull blade will cause a ripping cut and can lead to "tip burn". This causes a browning effect to the lawn. Also a jagged cut is an ideal entry way for insects and diseases.

For more lawn mowing information, please see our article "Lawn Care Tips - Mowing".

Q: What is the ideal height for mowing?

A: Most experts agree that a height of between 2 1/2 to 3 inches is an ideal height for cutting. The leaf blade is where the grass produces its food; by removing most of the blade you limit food production. By cutting too low you also will cut most of the green out of your lawn. This will give your lawn a brownish look no matter how much you water or fertilize.

For more lawn mowing information, please see our article "Lawn Care Tips - Mowing".

Q: Why is the grass doing poorly under my trees?

A: Trees, like many plants will compete with the grass for the moisture and nutrients within your lawn. Grass needs good sunlight in order to do well and the trees cause a great deal of shade. Spruce and pine trees will actually change the pH of the soil underneath them over a period of time by dropping their needles (needle-cast). This causes the soil underneath them to become acidic.

For more information, please see our articles "Lawn Care Tips - Growing Grass in Shade", and "Lawn Care Tips - pH Adjustment".

Q: Is an application of fertilizer and weed control dangerous to my pet?

A: Precautions do need to be taken when pets share the yard with you. Ensure your pet will remain off the lawn immediately after an application for a period of time until the application is completely dry. Depending on the weather conditions that day, usually 4 - 6 hours will suffice. For extra peace of mind, water thoroughly before allowing your pet on the lawn. Obviously, the same also applies to your children.

Q: What does IPM stand for?

A: Integrated Pest Management promotes the environmentally responsible and minimized use of pesticides. It also means recommending alternatives to pesticide and herbicide use, and provides control only as necessary and where necessary.

Q: How do you guarantee your programs?

A: We work with and educate our customers on how to achieve a lush, green weed free lawn. It starts with a regular fertilizer program and proper cultural practices. But sometimes, especially at the beginning, it's not enough. Therefore, at any time throughout your program, if you experience any problem with your lawn, we will return and re-treat the lawn with fertilizer if necessary and/or weed control if necessary. This extra application (service call) is free of charge, and will go a long way to ensuring the optimum health and appearance of your lawn.

Q: Can I aerate my lawn if I have an underground sprinkler system?

A: Yes you can. If your system was installed correctly, the pipes will be several inches below the surface. A deep core aeration removes plugs 3 inches deep, therefore leaving no danger of damaging the underground pipes. Marking the sprinkler heads with sticks or flags will ensure they are not damaged, thus allowing you to safely aerate your lawn with no risk of damage to your valuable sprinkler system.

For more information about Deep Core Aeration, please see our article "Lawn Care Tips - Deep Core Aeration".

If you have a question you would like to have answered by one of the professionals at Ace of Blades, call us at 818-LAWN (818-5296), or e-mail us at aceofblades@shaw.ca.