Organic
Lawn-Care
Information and
Alternatives
Organic Landscape
Alliance
World
Wildlife Fund Canada
Lawn Tips
City of Toronto: Healthy Lawn
Consider Clover brochure PDF file
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
List of Organic Service Providers
1. Choose the right grass
Choose drought-tolerant grass seeds and spread them on your lawn every fall
(over-seed). A thick lawn will crowd out weeds.
2. Mow high
To discourage weeds, keep your lawn mower blade at a height of 7 cm (3
inches). Never cut off more than one-third of the grass stem at a time.
3. Grasscycle
Leave your grass clippings on the lawn to return nutrients to the soil. This
will reduce your need for fertilizer by 30 percent. Clippings are mainly
water so they add moisture to your lawn.
4. Top-dress and fertilize
Once a year in the fall, use a slow-release granular fertilizer or apply a
top layer of natural organic matter such as compost (top-dress).
5. Let your lawn breathe
Once a year, remove small plugs of earth to allow air and water to get to
the roots (aerate). A pesticide-free lawn will encourage earthworms, nature's
aerators.
6. Water the roots
Let your lawn soak up 2-3 cm (1 inch) of water, once a week, early in the
morning, to promote deep root growth. If it has rained, adjust your
watering. Use a rain gauge to measure water levels.
7. Remove thatch
Thatch, a thick compacted layer of dead plants and grass, attracts harmful
insects. Too much thatch stops water and nutrients from getting to the
roots. Remove thatch by gently raking your lawn in late spring or early
summer. Aerate. To prevent thatch, don't over water or over fertilize.
8. Develop a tolerance for a few dandelions weeds and insects
Most insects are NOT harmful. Some are important to our environment.
9. Control weeds and insects
Dig out weeds and their roots by hand. Pour boiling water on weeds that are
growing between patio stones, etc. Use a stick or your hands to knock
insects off plants into a dish of soapy water.
10. Consider alternative plants
Alternatives to grass include trees, shrubs, perennials, ground covers, and
wild flowers (native species work best).
