Since the end of World War II, we have allowed ourselves, our children, pets, and all sorts of wildlife to be exposed to toxic chemicals applied routinely to our lawns and gardens. Once applied, these chemicals that share some of the same properties as nerve gas are absorbed by humans and mammals through the skin and also by inhalation. Children, who are still developing, are particularly susceptible. Veterinarians have proof that lawn chemicals are partly responsible for a 30% to 40% increase in the mortality of dogs and cats. Pesticides also kill songbirds and bees. They leach into the water system through streams and storm drains causing lakes to become choked with weeds and aquatic life to die.
Most simply put, we chemically fertilize and apply pesticides to our lawns to make them green upon command. At the same time the chemicals kill off all soil life and natural nutrients so the plants become more dependent on our fertilizers.
Each and every property is unique and has different requirements. Using data from a soil nutrient test and a compaction test, I will recommend a program to wean your lawn from chemical treatments. This may involve a spring top dressing with organic matter, organic fertilization, applications of compost tea, and other beneficial soil nutrients on an “as needed” basis. I can also advise you or your lawn mowing service as to the best way to manage the cutting height, raking and clippings disposal to help reduce frequency of cutting, watering and fertilizing.