LANDSCAPE AFTER CARE PROGRAMS

We want to see your landscape flourish. Click on a link below for information on what steps to take (or not take) after a recently installed landscape service.

What to do after your lawn has been seeded

Below are guidelines to follow after a recently completed lawn repair/installation at your residence to insure your grass grows and the lawn stays green and lush.

  • The new lawn area must not dry out
  • Gently water once each day for at least three weeks
  • Early morning is the most beneficial time to water
  • When grass is 4” high, watering may be cut back
  • Deep watering during drought period is very important
  • Mow only when the grass is at least 4” high
  • Mower blade should be sharp
  • Set mower height to at least 3” and higher in mid summer
  • Cut no more than 1/3 of the grass blade at one mowing
  • Your lawn was fertilized when we did the initial work
  • All of the lawn areas should be fertilized three times per year
  • Use a quality natural fertilizer for best and safest results
Lawn weeds are unavoidable, but can be kept under control
Healthy grass is the best natural weed control
Keep your lawn healthy by:
  • Maintaining proper turf height
  • Fertilize appropriately
  • Soil test and apply lime as recommended
  • Top dress with organic material
  • Irrigate when rainfall is insufficient
  • Aerate each fall
  • Remove thatch buildup
  • Weeding by hand is the safest means of weed removal, however if you choose to use chemicals, wait until the lawn has been cut at least three times.

What to do after Sod has been installed

In order to maintain and enjoy the attractive appearance of your new lawn, please devote attention to the following:

The period from placement to rooting to the soil is very critical. Water thoroughly and as frequently as necessary to maintain moist conditions. Check on moisture condition by lifting corners of sod pieces. Usually within a week, the roots will show signs of knitting to the soil.

After the sod knits to the soil, change to an infrequent but thorough watering program. A thorough wetting of the soil to a depth of 6 inches once every 5 to 10 days during drought periods generally is adequate for most soils.
Begin mowing as soon as top growth shows need for mowing (when grows to a height of about 3 to 4 inches). Mow as frequently as necessary to keep top growth within twice the height of mowing. Set mower to cut no closer than 2”. Keep mower sharp and properly adjusted at all times.
The newly sodded lawn will be adequately provided with nutrients for at least 6 weeks after placement. When it begins to show evidence of loss of green color and growth, it usually is indicative of a need for feeding providing soil moisture is adequate.

What to do after a new Tree, Shrub or Perennial has been planted

Our planting team has done everything possible to ensure the health of your plants. We have selected the finest, hardiest, and healthiest plants for you. Your new plants were carefully dug, transported, and planted following only the highest quality planting procedures.

  • Be sure to give your plant plenty of water, especially the tree’s root ball
  • Water when the root ball soil is almost dry to touch
  • In periods of drought, water more frequently
  • Fertilize to promote growth and plant health
  • To keep mowers and weed eaters from injuring the trunk of the tree, mulch around the tree trunk (this should not require more than 2 to 3 inches)
  • Prune any crossed, dead, or infected branches
  • Since insect and disease are always a concern, it is important to check your new and existing plants for insect and disease damage
  • Notify David Brothers if your plant shows any sign of pest or disease damage, such as wilting or yellowing
  • Periodic pruning will likely be necessary to ensure that your plants maintain their proper form, shape, and health
  • Remove any dead, dying, or crossed / rubbing branches (prune carefully so as not to injure the branch collar)
  • David Brothers Certified Arborists are available to assist you in answering any questions regarding your arbor needs
These recommendations will help keep your plants healthy and our replacement policy valid. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and look forward to a continuing relationship.

Watering Guidelines

  • Water your plants as soon as you get them in the ground.
  • Water them daily unless it rains.
  • After about 2 weeks, you may decrease watering to two or three times per week.
  • Check the soil: if the soil is dry 1-2 inches below the surface, then you should water.
  • Allow soil to dry between waterings to encourage roots to grow deep.
  • Water your plants as needed when soil is dry.
  • Water your plants 1-2 times per week during prolonged dry spells.
  • Roots need approximately two years to fully develop sustainability.
  • Plants should be well established now.
  • Drought tolerant plants may no longer need additional waterings.
  • Shallow rooted plants may still need water weekly.
  • Check soil 1-2 inches below surface before watering and 1 hour after. If soil is still dry, increase watering frequency. If soil is soggy, decrease watering frequency.

Tips

  • Mulch new plantings with 1-3 inches of mulch. Keep mulch away from plant stems.
  • Do not water the leaves. Water the base of the plants to prevent fungal disease.
  • Water in the early morning or late evening to prevent evaporation.

Not enough time to do your own after care? Discover how we can help you by checking out our Garden Care services.

Contact Us Today