Lawns

If runoff is a problem in your landscape, lawns established with turfgrass sod are up to 15 times more effective in controlling runoff than seed-established lawns, even after three years. View more information about turf and grass.

Grass Height

Lawn grasses do best if mowed at the correct height:

• Bermuda Grass 1/2 inch to 1 inch
• Creeping Red Fescue 2 inch to 3 inch
• Kentucky Bluegrass 1 1/2 inch to 2 1/2 inch
• Perennial Rye Grass 1 1/2 inch to 2 1/2 inch
• Tall Fescue 1 1/2 inch to 3 inch
• Zoysia Grass 3/4 inch to 1 inch

Turfgrass Practices to Minimize Pollution of Groundwater

• Apply fertilizers only when indicated necessary by soil test or plant tissue analysis
• Apply nutrients at time of year best suited to the plant or grass.
• Apply water-soluble nitrogen in split applications at reduced rates
• Calibrate equipment frequently and apply pesticides safely
• Never apply more than 1 pound of soluble nitrogen per 1,000 square feet
• Practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM) by spot treating, using curative programs and establishing damage thresholds
• Return clippings when mowing and mow with the proper frequency
• Select grass varieties that are darker green and require less nitrogen and water
• Use conservation irrigation practices - Water to only slightly below the rooting depth
• Use safe delivery systems
• Use slow-release nitrogen on sandy soils