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DIY Lights: Safely Decking the Halls with Lights this Holiday Season

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 22:45:00 GMT

How to Safely Deck the Halls with Holiday Lights

Christmas light installation can be a fun family tradition for your family. Without the proper safety, so can a visit to the Emergency Room. If you decide to embark on installing holiday lights on your own, we hope that you will read through our guide on keeping safe while installing holiday lighting.

Here are the six things to keep in mind while installing holiday lights and staying safe.

1. Be Cautious

Hanging holiday lights often requires a ladder to reach awkward spots on the roof, including ridge caps. Using a ladder instantly adds to the danger of hanging your holiday lighting. To ensure you are as safe as possible, have a safe and secure ladder. You pick an area on the ground that is level, and you have a spotter in case the ladder falls, or you need immediate help. When hanging the lights, ensure that they are not plugged in until after they are secured to the house. Additionally, using a timer to regulate when your lights are on/off will limit the usage of electricity but will also lower the likelihood of a fire.

2. Use GFCI Outlets

To lower the risk of a fire hazard, you need to ensure that your lights, extension cords, and the outlets are compatible. For outdoor Christmas lights, you should use GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets to ensure that your electrical system doesn’t become strained. An overpowered system can lead to blackouts and fires. We recommend having a GFCI outlet installed if you don’t already have one. Local electricians can do the installation job for you, or you can look into purchasing an outdoor unit instead.

3. Be Aware of the Types of Extension Cords You Use

In Kansas, your extension cords can face frigid temperatures so make sure that you have a weather resistant extension cord. If you are running extension cords across walkways or driveways, ensure that they are taped down to prevent any tripping hazards in your yard. Make sure that the cord is pulled taut and leaves no room for a foot to slide under.

4. Purchase the Correct Lights

Trust us when we say the lights you use on your Christmas tree are not the same as the lights you should use outdoors. Outdoor lights are weather resistant and waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about the rain or snow wreaking havoc on your holidays. When you buy lights, each box should indicate whether they were made for indoor or outdoor use.

5. Choose the Right Bulbs

The smaller the bulb, the lower the cost of the bulb and electricity usage. Boxman Lawn Service uses SMD lights that are weather resistant and only use .58 watts per bulb. We use two separate sets of bulbs depending on what we are wrapping. For general house lighting, we use the C9 bulb; for smaller details such as; wreaths, trees, and sidewalks, we use the C7 bulb. LED lights are some of the best outdoor lights that will shine bright on your house this holiday season.

6. Utilize Net Lighting for Bushes

Wrapping bushes in standard outdoor string lights can be such a waste of time. You have to spend time getting the string lights to lay perfectly, and then you will have to get the lights untangled at the end of the season. Thus, we recommend using net lighting to wrap bushes. This makes installation and take down far more manageable. You can also use net lighting to cover the base of trees in your yard.

Overall, doing your own Christmas light installation can be fun for the whole family. You need to make sure that you do it safely. With a few extra hands, a sturdy ladder, and weatherproof lights, you can get your house in the holiday cheer in no time.

If you despise detangling and hanging your own Christmas lights, then get in contact with us today for a FREE QUOTE . That’s the first step to taking the tangle out of holiday lights by using a professional lighting company like Boxman Lawn Service.

What to Look For in a Holiday Lighting Company

Sat, 24 Sep 2022 22:00:00 GMT

The Holiday Season is Coming: is Your House Ready?

Have you ever driven by someone's house during the holiday season and wondered how they get their Christmas lights so perfect? The answer is they have it done by professionals. Professional holiday lighting installation leads to perfectly straight and spaced holiday lights that can reach each ridge cap and can showcase windows perfectly.

Hiring a professional holiday lighting installation company will give you great results but how do you pick which company works best for you? In this article, we will talk about the most important factors to consider when you are deciding on a holiday light installation company.

What Safety Standards Do They Have?

Any homeowner who has climbed on the roof to hang Christmas lights knows how dangerous the installation process can be. To ensure that you are not liable for any job-related mishappens, you need to find a company that has verified safety records and employees who are both skilled and experienced.

Another part of safety planning that you should consider when hiring a professional is whether the company has workers’ compensation and liability insurance. This ensures that if any accidents or injuries occur during the job, the company’s insurance will cover the cost of recovery.

If the company you hire lacks the aforementioned insurance and an incident occurs, you will be held liable if a technician is injured at your home.

High-quality products

The use of high-quality bulbs is essential in maintaining a good-looking property throughout the winter season. Top-notch bulbs require less replacements which means you won’t have to worry about staring at a burnt-out bulb as often.

Wind, rain, and snow can be hard on Christmas lights throughout the winter. High-quality products handle these elements better and reduce the risk of an outage or other concerns.

At Boxman Lawn Service, we use SMD bulb technology that offers the brightest, most versatile lighting available.

Constructed from tough acrylic plastic, SMD lights are extremely durable in the wind, inclement weather, and sub zero temperatures, providing you with maximum Return on your Investment, saving you money year after year. To further save you money, our SMD Bulbs use only .58 watts per bulb, significantly lowering your energy cost compared to outdated department strands.

We offer two different styles of bulbs, our C9 and C7 lighting options in nine different colors. Our C9 bulbs work great for all-around house lighting, while our C7 bulbs are smaller and more versatile, offering vibrant light for any accent lighting around your house.

Check out the colors we offer today!

Warranty

One of the great things about hiring a professional Holiday lighting company is that they often offer warranties on their lights. This means that if a bulb burns out, the company will come and replace it free of charge.

While most holiday lighting companies offer this kind of warranty, it is important to ask because support after installation is important. If a light goes out, it may be hard to find replacement bulbs, and who wants to spend time fixing the lights after you paid to have them professionally done?

At Boxman Lawn Service, we will come and replace lights that burn out over the Holiday season. All you have to do is let us know and we will swiftly come and replace the bulb.

Full-Service Company

Finally, if you are going to spend money getting professional lighting help- you should find a company that offers full service for the entire season. This should include at least: installation, maintenance, and take down.

At Boxman Lawn Service, we take it a step further. At the beginning of the season, we will come to install your lights. If you have any issues throughout the season, we will come to take care of your lights. This can range from changing out light bulbs to rehanging wreaths that are blown off during storms. At the end of the season, we will come and take down your lights and store them for you until next season.

At Boxman Lawn Service, we go above and beyond so that you truly have hassle-free lighting for the holiday season.

Are you ready to take the tangle out of holiday lighting? Call us today to schedule a FREE consultation. It’s never too early to get into the Holiday Spirit.

How to Get a Sticker Free Yard

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 17:00:01 GMT

A Guide to Removing Stickers from Your Yard

Everyone loves their yard, and when you have a beautiful yard to show off, the last thing you want to worry about is dealing with stickers. For one, they are incredibly painful, and while you might wear shoes, your pets don’t. If you have kids playing on the lawn, stickers can cause worry parents can avoid.

Today, we will discuss how to get rid of stickers in a cost-effective manner. Remember, stickers are not poisonous, so you can remove them yourself.

What are Lawn Stickers?

While most Kansans call this type of weed a sticker, they are referred to by many different names in different areas. Some of the commonly referred to terms are:

·Lawn burrs

·Burr weed

·Stickers burrs

·Sandburs

·Grass burrs

The “sticker” part of this weed is the seed, which spreads by attaching to people or animals. The plant part of this weed is just a grassy weed itself.

Avoiding Stickers in Your Yard

One of the easiest ways to avoid getting grass burrs in your yard is simply by keeping your yard healthy and the grass strong. Thick and lush lawns prevent the spread of burrs naturally, thus halting weed growth.

Sticker weeds also don’t fare well in wet conditions, which is one of the reasons it does so well in the Kansas climate. Yards that are watered frequently are less likely to experience sticker infestations.

Getting Rid of Grass Burrs in Your Yard

There are a few ways to get rid of burr weed infestations. However, these tend to take time and manual labor. If you are looking for a quick fix to your infestation problem, give us a call today.

Method #1: Pull Them Out

The first method to getting rid of a lawn burr infestation is a temporary solution that isn’t guaranteed to rid your yard for years to come. However, if you have a pair of protective gardening gloves, you can start by pulling out the weeds.

Grab the weed at the base of the plant and pull upwards, ensuring to have pulled the root out too. Have a trash bag beside you and put the plant directly into the trash to minimize the seeds from spreading.

With this method, you will likely have the same problem the following year because the seeds have already spread.

Method #2: Applying a Pesticide

This method is more difficult because most pesticides that are available to homeowners won’t work on sandburrs. That limits the variety of options in choosing a pesticide that will take care of the problem but still be suitable for your property.

Image Kills Nutsedge is a good option that is readily available and is geared towards killing difficult weeds like lawn burrs. When applying the pesticide, follow the package instructions to decrease the damage to your lawn.

You can also use a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent the emergence of burr weeds. When using a pre-emergent, the most important thing is timing. If you are on one of our lawn maintenance plans , we apply pre-emergent to your yard for you.

If you are doing this yourself, you will need to apply two applications, one to get rid of most of the weeds and another to catch any that survived. The first application should come before the last major freeze in your area, and the second application should come 90 days later. The second application is crucial to ensure that no weeds germinate.

Which Method Should You Use?

The seriousness of the infestation should influence the method you choose. Are the lawn burrs covering your entire property, or do you only see a few?

Light infestations can usually be eliminated with proper upkeep. You should take the time to remove all the stickers using the first method and then start a regular watering routine to keep any more from growing. After a few weeks of consistent watering, any leftover seeds should be unfit to grow.

You will probably need to apply chemicals to the yard for large infestations. While this has a higher chance of damaging your yard, you must get rid of the problem before you focus on growing your yard back. Chemicals are not eco-friendly, so only use this method for large infestations and do it correctly to eliminate the need for multiple applications.

If you are ready to get rid of lawn burrs in your yard without the hassle of spending hours pulling out weeds, call us today to enroll in one of our lawn maintenance plans, starting at just $31 . Our plan includes everything that keeps your lawn healthy and has an option for every yard.

Guide to Identifying Your Midwestern Grass

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 16:15:00 GMT

How to Identify What Type of Grass You Have

For all of our DIYers out there, to take care of your lawn properly, you need to know what time of grass you have. The question you should always start with is “what type of grass do I have,” whether you are wanting to fertilize, aerate, or mow, you need to know what your lawn is holding.

Let’s take a look at the types of grass that are commonly found in the midwest.

Types of grass in the Midwest

The most common grasses found in Midwestern lawns are cool-season grasses including Fine Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Perennial Ryegrass. Bermuda and Zoysia can be found in Kansas lawns and with proper care, can do quite well.

Fine Fescue

There are several different breeds including Sheep Fescue, Chewing Fescue, and Creeping Red Fescue. These species do well in areas with moderate summers but can withstand colder winters, making it a perfect grass for the Midwest.

This species is a great option for yards that experience a lot of time in the shade but it needs some sun exposure to keep it growing and healthy. Fine Fescue can be mixed with Kentucky Bluegrass for yards that receive less sunlight.

Advantages

Shade tolerant
Grows in infertile soil
Drought tolerant

Disadvantages

Intolerant of high temperatures
Suffers when over-watered

Kentucky Bluegrass

A popular choice for cool-season grasses in the United States, a Kentucky Bluegrass lawn creates a beautiful turf that makes your lawn stand out. Its soft and dense dark green leaves give you a luscious and vibrant look to your yard.

This grass type has a fair warm temperature tolerance and it has an excellent cold temperature tolerance making it great for Midwestern summers and winters alike. However, this grass needs water and has a very poor drought resistance, and will not do well in shaded areas. Kentucky Bluegrass can often be found blended with Fescue or other grass types due to the shade and drought intolerance conditions.

Advantages

Tolerates low temperature well
Beautiful appearance

Disadvantages

Poor shade tolerance
Takes a long time to establish

Perennial Ryegrass

A common acquaintance to other grass types, ryegrass is known for being used as a filler in addition to other grass types for overseeding. For homeowners with patches on their lawn, this easy to work with seed is a great option for quick establishment.

Shiny and dark green leaves sprout from Ryegrass seed and have a fine texture. While Ryegrass is a cool-season grass, there is a lower chance of Ryegrass fairing in northern temperatures compared to the other cool-season grasses but can do well in places with mild winters. Ryegrass is a bunch-grass and will not spread outward making it a great patching option.

Advantages

Quick establishment of cover
Good for overseeding
High wear tolerance

Disadvantages

Least cold tolerant of the cool-season grasses
Not best for standalone turf, better as part of a mix

Bermuda

The king of wear and tear, Bermuda grass makes a great candidate for high-traffic yards; however, the high maintenance requirements usually make it undesirable for many homeowners. The quick establishment and spread of Bermuda grass leads to thick turf that handles kids and pets extremely well.

Bermuda grass is known for its aesthetically pleasing fine, dark green blades. Usually found in southern states, Bermuda turf-grass can thrive in transition zones too. Besides being highly wear and tear tolerant, this grass handles droughts better than most other grasses. Its need for nutrients, water, and maintenance is unmatched as well. Due to this, Bermuda is best suited for homeowners who are okay with spending their free time caring for their yard.

Advantages

Grows aggressively
Tolerates heat exceptionally well
Withstands wear and tear
High drought resistance

Disadvantages

High maintenance
Cold weather intolerant
Shade intolerant

Zoysia

This hardy grass is known for growing well in varying conditions. Typically found in the deep south, this grass can also do well in transition zones. Unlike fescue, Zoysia grows outward and creates thick and dense lawns that are both satisfying in look and feel. Compared to Bermuda, Zoysia’s low maintenance characteristics make it a prime choice for homeowners.

Zoysia develops deep roots that allow it to handle drought better than Bermuda; however, the deep rooting process makes it slow to establish and grow. For warm-season grass, it handles shade well and does not require much maintenance. While this grass does well in transitional zones, the leaves will lose color once cold weather begins.

Advantages

Great wear and tear tolerance
High heat tolerance
Less watering needed
Tolerates shade well

Disadvantages

Long recovery time
Difficult to establish
Does not tolerate cold conditions well

Conclusion

Now that you know the basic characteristics of popular Midwestern grass types, you should be able to identify what grass is found in your yard.

This guide can also help when deciding on grass seed or preparing a maintenance plan for your lawn this summer. If you want expert identification, you can contact us today!

If you aren’t looking to dedicate all of your free time to lawn care, you can check out our Lawn Care Maintenance plans that provide year-round expert care for your lawn. Starting at just $39/application, you can have a beautiful, stress-free yard in no time.

How do I Tell if I Have a Mosquito Problem?

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 16:13:12 GMT

Signs Of A Mosquito Infestation

Mosquitoes are among the most dangerous insects commonly found all over the world. Mosquitoes are not only annoying; they come with health issues that can cause issues for a long period. Mosquitoes may inflict on your skin and cause major diseases such as the West Nile virus, Malaria, and dengue fever.

There might be no pain experienced when a mosquito bites you, but the itchiness will irritate you. The area where the mosquito bites may turn red and cause inflammation. So, if you are asking yourself “how do I tell if I have a mosquito problem,” We have the answers for you.

1. Standing water around your property.

For the mosquitoes to breed, they need water. When there is stagnant water around the area you live in, you create an optimal breeding area for mosquitoes. Unlike moving water, standing water will encourage mosquitoes to breed and develop larvae. If you notice some stagnant water around the area you live in, take measures before it gets serious. A female mosquito is capable of laying hundreds of eggs at a time.

If you have decorative items like bird baths, you should change the water out often. Pools and jacuzzi should be supplied with the proper chemicals to decrease the chances of mosquito infestations.

2. If you live in a humid area.

Mosquitoes are fond of humid areas because the environment is optimal for their breeding activities. If your home and yard experience high humidity levels, then there is a higher risk of suffering from a mosquito infestation. Mosquitoes are cold-blooded insects, making humid areas the most prone to infestations. Mosquitoes have the ability to control the warm temperatures when they live in a humid area. When mosquitoes are inactive, they can easily control their body temperatures, especially in humid areas.

3. You get bit often.

Do you get bitten every time you are in your yard? Most times, mosquitoes are present at night. If you are experiencing bites too during the day, it means that your yard could already be infested.

Side note: The female mosquitoes need blood for egg production. Females are also the carriers of most infections so when you get mosquito bites frequently, there is a high possibility that more female mosquitoes are in your area. You should take care of the problem quickly to ensure the safety of your family.

4. Shaded areas around your home.

Shaded areas provide a humid area since the place is cool. Mosquitoes love not only stagnant areas but also shaded areas. It is common that most bushy areas are infested with mosquitoes. The shaded areas provide a conducive environment for the breeding process.

5. You will notice them in the kitchen

Mosquitoes attack humans because of the lactic acid, potassium, and salt that our blood contains. This means that mosquitoes are also drawn to things like bananas, avocados, and other dried fruit. If you notice increased numbers of mosquitoes in your kitchen, it could be a sign that you have a building mosquito infestation.

6. When you see mosquitoes at any time of the day.

Most insects are active at night. Mosquitoes hunt when the sun is setting and when people are not very busy. Once you start noticing mosquitoes during the day, it is a sign that mosquitoes have found a home in your yard.

Boxman Lawn Service understands the annoyance and harm that mosquitoes pose to humans and pets . That is why we have created a Mosquito Defense treatment that not only kills off those pesky parasites but keeps them away too. The slow-release formula will ensure a mosquito-free lawn.

Our Mosquito Defense treatment consists of 5 targeted treatments that will kill mosquitoes on contact, giving mosquitoes no time to lay eggs. Our experts know that shrubbery and ornamentals are some of the most common areas for mosquitoes to breed so they will ensure that those areas are targeted as well.

Hiring a Professional Lawn Care Company

Tue, 24 May 2022 14:32:23 GMT

What to Know When Hiring a Professional Lawn Mowing Company:

Lawn mowing costs can vary, but typically prices are determined by the size of your property. The standard price for a lawn is $65 per hour, though rates in certain areas might be higher. Whether you want to hire a professional lawn mowing company or do it yourself, here are some suggestions on how to save money:

- Research the average cost of local lawn care companies and compare that amount with what you would spend if you were to do it yourself. Suppose your local company charges more than $100 per hour for services on your property (depending on your property size). In that case, you need to ensure that the value of the service is equivalent to the price that you pay. The increase in cost can be attributed to better equipment and more attention to detail.

- Specialty lawn care companies will often charge more than a standard neighborhood mower to maintain your lawn. If you go with a specialty company, they will use higher quality equipment and treatment products so that your yard will look even better. If you request mosquito or flea and tick treatments, you should be aware that these are separate charges in advance so that you are not surprised when your bill arrives at the end of the session.

- Professional lawn care companies typically offer more professional and efficient services, often with better communication and customer experience. At Boxman Lawn Service, we ensure top-notch customer experience with clear communication, including service updates and instant free estimates .

- Try to avoid taking on new projects when it comes to maintaining your lawn during peak seasons. Many people believe that the only time to plant grass seed is in the spring or that the only time to fertilize your lawn is during autumn. However, fall and winter are great times to plant grass seeds: if you do it right, you can help ensure better growth in early spring.

- Consider asking for a discount if you plan to use a specialist. Suppose your commercial lawn mowing company offers a "package deal" for its services. In that case, you might be able to save money by taking advantage of their offered services, including trimming bushes and weeding flower beds. Boxman Lawn Service provides lawn maintenance plans that include fertilization treatments, weed control, crabgrass control, and other treatments depending on the season.

You might also ask about other discounts such as senior citizens and first-time customers.

- Keep in mind that you shouldn't always go for the cheapest option when hiring a lawn care specialist. Try to find a balance between cost and quality. You don't want to spend money on services that are below average and will leave your yard looking sub-par. Instead, find a company with an excellent reputation and fantastic references to know what you're getting for your money and the results you want.

You can check out Boxman Lawn Service reviews here.

- You should also try to find a company that offers the right maintenance plans for your property. Many companies provide year-round maintenance plans, ensuring that your grass always looks healthy throughout the season without fail. If you cannot hire professional lawn care services throughout the year, plan on hiring extra help around growing times such as spring or summer.

- You should make a note of the type of offerings that come with your lawn maintenance plan. Does the company offer essential services, or are they more comprehensive? Do you get additional services included with your plan, such as cutting hedges, pruning trees, and mowing your lawn?

Boxman Lawn Service offers three different plans to fit every yard. If you need other perks such as this, ask us about our pricing and we can help you find a plan that fits your yard and budget needs.

What Services are Included with a Professional Lawn Mowing Job?

It can be challenging to tell what services come with your next-door neighbor's lawn mowing service. Since they are typically cheaper, they likely use lower quality products and may not spend time doing additional tasks like picking up debris or edging your lawn.

When you hire a professional lawn mowing company to work on your property, you must know what services come with the job and how much it costs. This article will help you decide what services are included in the job and associated expenses.

They may have different prices depending on the amount of work they need to complete. They may offer one price if they mow only half of your yard (for example, the front yard only), while a higher price if they need to do both your front and back yard.

They might need to come out on a particular day and time or check your yard every week to see if there is any new vegetation in your yard or other issues that need to be addressed, such as fungus or armyworms.

If you are looking for the ideal lawn mowing service, you will want to look at the whole package. The lawn mowing company you are considering should have the right equipment to tackle any terrain in your yard, and they should not have to come back out because they did not have the right tools or equipment to do their job effectively. Any professional lawn mowing service should include edging, weed-eating, and debris clearing.

When it comes to having a professional lawnmower, they must be willing and able to use all of their tools to get the job done correctly. They should have a strong understanding of how their equipment works and be able to do simple maintenance on them as needed. The difference between lawn care professionals and your next-door neighbor is the experience, expertise, and equipment. When it comes to lawn care maintenance, you pay for what you get.

Before you hire a lawn mowing company, you will want to ask them if they can do any additional jobs on your property. It is common for some companies to offer weed control or tree services. If you have extra jobs that need to be done, they should be done by the same person so that the work follows along and doesn't end up looking messy. Signing up for a plan like the Boxman Lawn Service Complete Lawn Maintenance Plan ensures that your lawn is thoroughly cared for year-round.

When looking for a good man with a mower, they must know what services they offer and how much they cost. These services can vary greatly depending on who is doing the job. It would be best to look at your options to get what you want out of a job.

Remember to compare prices before hiring any service provider in your area. If charges seem too high or low based on what other companies are charging for similar work, do some additional research before making a final decision.

Therefore, if you are looking for a full-service lawn maintenance company to take care of mowing, fertilizing, and weed control, Boxman Lawn Service is an excellent fit for you. With our transparent pricing, clear and professional communication, and timely services, your regularly scheduled services will leave you with the time to relax and enjoy your beautiful lawn.

Contact our experts for a quote today for more information on lawn maintenance plans!

The Complete Guide to Lawn Fertilization

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 17:17:48 GMT

How to Fertilize Your Lawn Properly:

Fertilizing your lawn is an essential step in ensuring that you have healthy green grass. When your lawn “wakes up” after winter, it will need nutrients, and fertilizer feeds your yard those nutrients. Fertilizer is your lawn’s equivalent of coffee; it needs fertilizer to start the season off well. This guide will give you tips for fertilizing your lawn, like when to fertilize, what you should look for in a fertilizer, and how many applications you should use to get healthy grass.

When Should You Fertilize?

Most homeowners apply fertilization too early in the growing season, causing the grass to focus on leaf development instead of root development. Therefore, you should try to apply for your first application in the late spring. Cool-season grasses naturally enter a growth cycle in the spring, and the grass blades will dedicate their energy towards building (and storing) carbohydrates (energy). To maximize the effects of your application, you should wait until the roots have developed and focus then on preparing the grass for summer.

What to Look for in a Fertilizer:

There are many options at your local lawn care store and you can choose between an organic or non-organic fertilizing method. Organic fertilization can be done using a mulching mower that collects, decimates, and disperses the grass clippings back onto the lawn, where it breaks down and emits nitrogen back into your yard. You can also find commercial options labeled as organic, but they typically have less of the essential nutrients that your lawn needs.

Non-organic fertilization is easier to come by, but there are some things you need to keep in mind when choosing the right one for your lawn. These typically have a mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Each package will have the NPK percentage printed on the label. For example, a label that says 16-4-8 will contain 16% of nitrogen, 4% phosphorus, and 8% potassium.

The most common commercial formulas are 16-4-8, 10-10-10, or 10-0-15. Different grass types do best with specific combinations, so consult an expert for recommendations based on your grass type. You should consider a slow-release formula with a 3-1-2 ratio (ex. 12-4-8) for fescue grass. Bermuda should be high in nitrogen, contains low or no phosphorus, and can include a small amount of potassium (ex. 16-0-8).

Granules or Spray?

A spray may seem like the best option because that is what professionals typically use. However, you need special equipment like a tanker truck to accurately and evenly distribute the formula. So homeowners should use granules that can be easier to apply using a lawn spreader like a broadcast spreader or a drop spreader.

You can hire a local lawn company to do professional fertilizing for the best coverage. Our Lawn Care Experts can take care of your fertilizing needs throughout the year. Stop wasting money by buying too much or using the wrong formula. Leave it to our experts by signing up for one of our lawn maintenance plans starting at just $31 .

Call us today at (620)441-8570 to get started.

How Much Should You Use?

Over-applying is incredibly common when it comes to homeowners fertilizing their yards. This mistake can be costly both by wasting money and burning and killing your grass. The best advice we can give is to underdo it rather than overdo it. Each manufacturer will have a recommended application rate, but you should go with a half to one-third of the recommended rate.

Instead of leaving your spreader valve wide open, leave it half or just under halfway open. Using half the application rate will also allow you to make two passes ensuring better coverage. On the first pass, work in one direction and then switch to a perpendicular pattern to reach maximum coverage. Always err on the side of too little rather than too much to ensure you don’t damage your grass.

How Many Applications Does Your Lawn Need?

The number of applications will depend on your watering habits and the weather in your area. If you have a sprinkler system, you will need to fertilize more often. It would be best if you plan on applying between 4 and 6 treatments to your yard.

The typical yard will need fertilizing every six weeks, but if you have a sprinkler system, you will need to fertilize more- every four weeks. Fertilization applications should start in April and end in October. You should consult an expert to see how often you should fertilize your lawn based on your geographical location, weather patterns, and watering habits.

The most important thing about fertilizing your lawn is to have a plan:

Do your research and find out what formula works best with your grass type.
Buy the proper materials and equipment.
Don’t overapply

If you are looking for experts to take care of fertilizing your lawn without you having to waste money or energy, give us a call at (620) 441-8570.

How to Mow Your Lawn Without Damaging Your Grass

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 14:55:01 GMT

How to Mow Your Lawn Without Damaging Your Grass:

Mowing is one of the most important lawn care practices. Mowing too high or too low can damage your grass, making it more susceptible to disease and pests. Use the following tips to ensure a healthy and manicured lawn.

How Often to Mow Your Lawn?

There are many myths that you should mow your lawn weekly, biweekly, etc. The truth is that you should only mow your lawn, when it needs it. Many things affect the growth rate of your yard; grass type, growing conditions, growth pattern, sun placement, and the season.

Generally, you should mow once a week during the growing season and Bermuda lawns will need to be mowed more frequently than Fescue. You can contact one of our lawn care experts to help determine how often your specific lawn needs mowed.

What Time of Day Should You Mow Your Lawn?

The time of day to mow your lawn will be dependent on the weather conditions in your area. Typically, you want to avoid early morning mowing because the turf is likely to still be wet from the morning dew. Wet grass clippings can clog your mower and if your yard is holding too much moisture, your lawn mower can leave trackers in your yard.

Mid-morning is perhaps the most optimal time of day to mow your yard. The turf should be dry from any residual morning dew and mowing mid morning gives the freshly cut grass blades time to heal before nightfall brings more moisture.

Midday is not an optimal time to mow the lawn because it is typically the hottest part of the day which will already be causing stress to your lawn. If you cut the lawn too short during midday, you leave your lawn at risk of burning which will cause brown patches.

Late afternoon is the second best time to cut the grass, since it will be cooler out and will still give your lawn some time to recover before nightfall. It is best to avoid mowing in the evening time because your lawn will not have time to recover leaving it open to diseases caused by exposing the open grass blades to the dampness of the nighttime.

Additionally, if you are on one of our Lawn Care Maintenance Plans , you should avoid mowing with 24 hours of application. Mowing while chemicals are still wet can cause damage to your lawn and mower and will likely lower the impact of the treatment. In fact, you should plan to mow 24-48 hours before the treatment is applied to achieve the best results, especially with fertilizing treatments.

What Height Should I Mow My Grass?

The ideal mowing height depends on your grass type. For most lawns, the recommended height is 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Taller grass is better able to withstand heat and drought, while shorter grass requires more frequent watering and is more susceptible to weeds and pests.

The blades of your grass should never exceed 6 cm, if they do, your lawn needs mowed immediately. Having long grass blades prevents the sun from reaching the surface of the turn. Insufficient amount of sunlight can cause the lower sections of the grass blades to brown leaving yellow or brown patches due to scalping when you mow. Yellowing or brown lawns are playgrounds for diseases and pest.

Ensure you Don't Spray Chemicals before Mowing

Mowing can distribute chemicals, such as herbicides and pesticides, unevenly across your lawn. To avoid this, wait until the chemical has had time to dry or be absorbed before mowing.

It Is Important to Vary Your Mowing Pattern

Varying your mowing patterns is one way to help keep your lawn looking manicured. We all tend to have a pattern, mow left to right or top to bottom but doing this continuously can actually damage your lawn. Mowing in the same direction every time can cause your grass blades to lean in the direction you mow and can cause ruts in the lawn. Instead, you should vary between different mowing patterns which will leave your grass standing up straight and tall.

Ensure you Don't Stick to a Schedule

While it's important to mow regularly, don't stick to a rigid schedule. Mowing too often will damage the grass while mowing too infrequently will allow the grass to become overgrown. Check the lawn weekly and mow as needed.

Don't Move the Grass Clippings

Skip bagging your clippings and instead leave the grass clippings on the lawn is a good way to fertilize your grass. The clippings will quickly decompose and provide nutrients for the grass. If you must remove the clippings, compost them or add them to your garden.

Mowing your yard with a dull blade is like shaving with a dull blade; it hurts. Using a dull blade on your turf can tear up the grass and cause the ends to be ragged and brown. Continuous use of a dull blade can cause your lawn to weaken and become more susceptible to diseases, insect damage (like armyworms) and less heat and drought tolerance.

The best idea is to check your lawn mower and sharper the blades every year at the beginning of the mowing season. Maintaining your lawn mower will make mowing easier, keep your lawn looking better, and will save you money on unexpected repairs. Also, make sure to wash your mower after each use, this prevents clogging and buildup after several uses.

Don't Mow a New Lawn Immediately

If you've just seeded or sodded your lawn, wait until the grass is 4 to 6 inches tall before mowing. This will give the roots time to establish themselves. When you mow, use a reel mower set at the highest setting. After the first mowing, you can lower the blade to the desired height.

Mowing is an important part of lawn maintenance, but it's important to do it correctly. Whether you are using a riding mower, a push mower, or a hover mower, you should always use a sharp mower blade, change up your mowing pattern, and make sure your turf is dry before mowing. Also, be sure to set the mower at the correct height and don't remove the grass clippings. Following these tips will help you maintain a healthy lawn.

For more information contact our lawn care experts today!

How Much Water Does Your Lawn Actually Need?

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 15:44:35 GMT

When Should You Water Your Lawn

Your lawn will show signs that it needs to be watered; it may start losing its vibrant color or start taking on a brown color. It is also shown in how it handles traffic. For example, when you walk on the grass and your footprint impressions don’t disappear, that is a sign that the grass lacks the water it needs to bounce back.

Just like outdoor flowers, you want to water the grass in the early mornings (before 10 a.m.). Watering in the morning gives your yard time to absorb the water while it is cool out before it starts evaporating. If you can’t water in the morning, you can water between 4-6 p.m. Watering any later will leave your grass still wet after nightfall, creating the perfect environment for diseases to start taking over your lawn.

Lawns that are cared for can go weeks without water by turning to a dormant state and will become active and vibrant again once water is returned to the roots.

How Much Water Your Lawn Needs

When watering an established lawn, you must ensure that the roots of the turfgrass become wet. Typically this is the top 6 to 8 inches of soil, and it usually takes 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week to seep that deep into the ground. This water could come from rain or supplemental watering, and this amount can be applied once or divided into a couple of different watering sessions throughout the week.

Be aware of the weather radar for the week and keep a schedule so that you don’t overwater the lawn.

How Much Water Your Lawn Needs

The Soil

During your first watering session, you can check every 15 minutes to see if your soil is wet and how deep the water has run by pressing a screwdriver or a similar tool into the soil. Mark on the tool between 6 to 8 inches and compare where the wet dirt starts and stops each time you remove the tool for the soil. Then, take the number of intervals between when you begin and when the soil is wet, 6 to 8 inches down, and multiply by 15 minutes.

For example, if it takes three intervals of 15 minutes to reach 6 to 8 inches, then each watering session in the future should be around 45 minutes to get the same depth. If you are running short on time for a day and want to skip watering, stick the tool into the ground until the 6-inch mark. If there isn’t much resistance, you can skip watering that day. If it is difficult to do, you need to water the lawn.

Using a Sprinkler System

If you have an irrigation system installed in your yard, you will be able to find the flow rate (in gallons per minute) on the manual provided by the manufacturer. To calculate the number of minutes that you need to run your sprinkler, multiply the square footage of your lawn by 0.62 Gallons (1 inch of water per square foot) and then divide by the flow rate provided for your specific sprinkler.

If you have an irrigation system through Boxman Lawn Service with controller adjustment, we will make sure your lawn gets the right amount of water.

Use Rain Gauge or Similar Product

You can use a rain gauge or can to measure how long it takes to collect 1 to 1.5 inches in each can. Place gauges in different spots around the lawn and use the average time it takes to fill all gauges to 1 to 1.5 inches. If you do not have rain gauges, you can use clean mason jars or tuna cans.

Measure Water Output Using a Flow Timer

If you have a timer that measures water flow per hundred of gallons, you can take the square footage of your lawn and multiply it by 0.62 gallons (1 inch of water per square foot) to determine how many gallons your lawn needs.

This method can result in puddling, so if you notice that your lawn is having trouble absorbing the water, you can break up the overall time needed into shorter cycles. For example, take a 30-minute cycle and break it up into three 10 minute cycles placed 15 minutes apart.

Other Watering Tips

Watering differs between cool-season grass and warm-season grasses. Cool-season grasses like tall fescue roots deeply and are highly drought tolerant. In contrast, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and finer fescues will go dormant if not watered but will become green again when water returns. Warm-season grasses like Zoysia, Bermuda and St. Augustine withstand drought rather well and typically require less water than cool-season grass.

Each lawn is different. They need different nutrients in the soil, different types of grass seeds are rooted in each lawn, and each lawn has a differing amount of sunlight, so to ensure that your lawn is getting the right amount of water at the correct times, connect with a lawn care expert in your area. If you reside in the Arkansas City, Winfield, Derby, or Wichita area, our Boxman Lawn Service experts can help you determine the best watering habits for your lawn.

For more information contact our lawn care experts today!

Ensure Your Lawn Gets What it Needs

andrew.iverson@nextlevelmktg.com (Andrew Iverson) — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 11:33:49 GMT

Prepare Your Lawn This Spring Season

The weather is getting warmer and starting to feel like spring, which means it's time to think about lawn care. Spring lawn care is particularly important for people who live in areas that still have snow on the ground or had a harsh winter, where there is just not enough time for grass growth before summer. A lawn can go dormant during the winter, meaning that the yard will not need to be watered and fertilized as often. The yard may turn a light brown color, but it will green up again in the spring with the proper care.

The ultimate aim with lawn care is to get the right balance of soil nutrition and sunlight so your lawn remains vibrant and green all year round. When you do this, your property will be free from weeds, and you will have a thriving, beautiful lawn, which means there is less work for you to do, and you will have a lot more time to spend on other activities.

With summer fast approaching, you may start to notice your lawn is a little parched. Luckily, it's time for spring - a time for new life and fresh green grass. Here are some tips to help your lawn turn out great this spring and summer.

When Should You Start Your Spring Lawn Treatment?

The best time to start preparing your lawn for spring is early in the season; this will give you enough time to improve the quality of your existing grass and support new grass shoots as they emerge. There are a few things you can do to get your yard ready for the summer months ahead, such as fertilizing, applying pre-emergent, and beginning mowing maintenance.

Lawn Care in the spring is important because it helps get your lawn ready for the summer. It would be best if you made sure to mow your lawn regularly, fertilize it, and water it. If you do this, your property will be healthy and look great all summer long. If you don't prepare your lawn in the spring, the grass will not grow as well and will be more susceptible to weeds.

How to Deal with Weeds in Your Lawn.

A recent study found that over 60% of lawns in Kansas have excessive weed problems, which is likely a result of Kansas being a Midwestern state with a lot of farmland. Weeds can often thrive in disturbed areas, such as lawns that receive a lot of traffic, and they can be challenging to get rid of.

Weeds can be detrimental to a lawn for many reasons. Weeds can take up valuable space and resources that could be used by the grass, preventing it from growing healthy and strong. Weeds can also create a hospitable environment for pests and diseases to infect the lawn. Finally, weeds can be challenging to remove and can often regrow if not adequately dealt with.

Weed control is an integral part of lawn care as this will help keep the weeds from growing. Weeds can be a big problem on your lawn if not dealt with properly. Weeds can quickly take over a yard, crowding out the grass and making it difficult for the grounds to thrive. However, there are some things you can do to help keep them under control.

One way to control weeds is to use a pre-emergent which will help to prevent them from germinating. Many different types of pre-emergents can be used to avoid weeds from coming up in your lawn. Also, always use pesticides that are specifically labeled for your type of grass.

Some common types of weed pre-emergent include crabgrass, dandelion, and clover . These weeds can be challenging to control and often require unique products or methods to get rid of them. They can take over and become difficult to control. Weeds can also harbor pests and diseases that can damage the lawn. When keeping a weed-free property, it is essential to remove weeds regularly and to use a weed killer if necessary.

Crabgrass is very common in the midwest and can be found in warmer states. It is a tough weed to get rid of and can be very difficult to control. Crabgrass germinates early in the spring and multiplies, and the seeds can start to grow quickly within the first week of their germination. The crabgrass plant has a tough stem, making it difficult to remove. The crabgrass roots are also well-developed and do not die easily when damaged. For this reason, we suggest applying crabgrass pre-emergent to protect your lawn from this pesky type of weed.

Keep in mind many types of weeds can be prevented from germinating. It is best to get the weeds out before they can cause any damage to your lawn.

Apply Fertilizer to Your Lawn

If you want your lawn to stay green and healthy all summer long, you should apply fertilizer in the spring. Fertilizer helps keep your grass strong and healthy, making it more resistant to heat and drought. If you wait too long to apply fertilizer, your lawn can be very susceptible to problems such as sunscald and bloat.

Applying fertilizer in the spring also helps prepare the soil for the upcoming growing season, and it also helps to replace the lost nutrients through regular use and wear. Fertilizer also helps to promote thick, healthy grass that can better resist disease and pests. Fertilizer doesn't have to be expensive and can last for many months.

If you don't have time to fertilize your lawn, try getting a fertilizer application done by lawn care experts. This will help to prepare your property for the upcoming growing season. The best time to fertilize is the first two weeks of the spring.

Here are some basic recommendations to look for when choosing a fertilizer :

1. an essential fertilizer will have a high nitrogen content.

2. It should also have a good phosphorus and potassium content.

3. It is essential to find a balanced fertilizer so that all of the nutrients are present in the correct ratios.

A healthy lawn needs the right amount of fertilizer and nutrients to stay green and lush. Make sure to apply fertilizer evenly and water it well. Don't hesitate to call us if you need help with fertilization in South Central Kansas. We can provide you with reliable lawn care advice and services to keep your lawn looking great all year round.

Armyworms: Dangerous for your Lawn!

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 16:06:09 GMT

Armyworms: How to Kill Them Fast & Prevent Future Damage

Protect Your Lawn Before It’s Too Late

If you’ve spotted strange brown patches or chewed grass blades in your lawn, your yard could be under attack by armyworms — and time is critical. Under the right conditions, armyworms can destroy a lush lawn in just a few days.

What Are Armyworms?

Armyworms are the larvae of a small moth, typically a southern pest, but they can travel north on storm fronts and show up in unexpected places like Kansas.

Adult Moth: Tan or brown, less than 1 inch long, with a white dot on each forewing.
Eggs: Laid in clusters, often on tree leaves.
Worms: Light green/tan when young, turning dark green or brown as they mature. Full-grown worms are 1.5 to 2 inches long with green, yellow, or brown stripes.

Signs of Damage

Armyworm damage often looks like drought stress or heat damage at first. Look closer and you’ll see:

Brown patches with chewed or missing grass blades
Grass tips that appear “razor cut”
Areas thinning out rapidly, especially in hot, dry weather

If left untreated, armyworms can strip a lawn clean, especially during peak infestation periods.

The Good News: They’re Easy to Kill

Because armyworms feed on the surface of the lawn, they’re relatively easy to control with insecticides. One effective option is any product containing Bifenthrin.

Tips for Fast Control:

Spray immediately if you see activity.
Focus on the entire affected area and slightly beyond.
Re-treat in 5–7 days if needed.

Will My Lawn Recover?

Yes — if you act quickly. If only the edges or tips of the blades are damaged, your lawn can bounce back with proper watering and fertilization. Keeping your lawn healthy and well-maintained will help it recover faster and prevent future outbreaks.

General Tips for Watering Your Lawn

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 22:01:08 GMT

9 Tips for Watering Your Lawn

General Watering Tips:

1. 1 to 2 inches of water per week during the growing season (use rain gauge or a small bucket for proper measurements).

2. Water slowly. Depending on your soil type (clay vs. sandy) the ground can only accept so much water within a given time period. Watering too fast results in run off and waste.

3. Use the rain/soak/rain method. Let each zone run long enough to deliver the optimal amount of water before run off occurs then move to the next zone. Then start over and run through each zone again about an hour apart. This will deliver a good watering to the root zone.

4. Only water when needed. The best way is to soak the root zone the let it dry out.

5. Water in the morning! The best time to water is between 2 a.m. and 10 a.m. when the wind is low and the water doesn’t evaporate so fast. It also helps knock the dew off the lawn which aids in disease control.

6. Less water is required during the spring and fall when temperatures are cooler out. More water is required during the hot and dry months of summer.

7. During the hot parts of the summer, water 2-3 times each week depending on rainfall

8. Water at least .5” – ¾” each watering session

9. Water in a minimum soil depth of 4”

What to Avoid:

1. Short/quick watering sessions that are frequent because it will develop a weak root system on the grass that is susceptible to drought and disease.

2. Heavy, fast watering with excessive run off that can lead to wasted water and erosion

Worlds Deadliest Animal, The Mosquito

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Thu, 20 May 2021 03:03:25 GMT

What would you guess is the deadliest animal on the planet? Perhaps a tiger, shark, or bear. Maybe your thinking spiders or snakes. Surprisingly, the most dangerous species is actually Mosquitoes. They account for the most deaths to humans over any other species on this planet.

Give it a quick Google and no matter what source, mosquitoes rank at the top over all including human on human homicides.

Mosquitoes carry different diseases that can be fatal such as Malaria, West Nile Virus, and recently the Zika Virus. Don’t be fooled, these diseases don’t only exist on other continents and in far away places. They exist here in the United States as well posing a threat.

Mosquitoes are a nuisance to humans and can ruin time outside. They they are not selective and will attack and bite into many species and don’t care who or what it is. Why is this a problem? Mosquitoes will bite and feed on reptiles, birds, and whatever else satisfies their blood meal. They will go lay eggs, get back out on the attack and bite into humans for their next meal. This transmission is what causes the most disease. So, while you may think that local mosquitoes don’t pose a threat, don’t be too certain as they may have just fed on the diseased birds or other animals in the area.

What you can do to protect yourself and those around you?

There are multiple steps you can take to help lessen mosquitoes in your lawn and outdoor living areas.

1. Keep tall and over grown vegetation cut down and away from areas you spend time.

2. Remove standing water areas

3. Use fans while outdoors because mosquitoes do not fly well where there is wind

4. Hire a company to do mosquito treatments. They will target the areas mosquitoes rest with a special blend that kills and prevents the reproduction of mosquitoes.

How To Eliminate Dandelions

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 04:56:01 GMT

How to Eliminate Dandelions in Your Lawn

Dandelions can present an unpleasant view in an otherwise thick and beautiful lawn. Most people find them frustrating because they may “seed out” and cause the lawn to look rough and unkept even a day after being mowed, not to mention they don’t always mow off cleanly.

Besides causing mowing difficulty, dandelions compete with nutrients that are vital to growing your healthy lawn and desired grass.

While mowing frequently to keep the dandelions from seeding can help, a broadleaf herbicide is your best bet for controlling and eliminating these weeds from your lawn. The most common spray that is used is a 2,4-D herbicide formulation. You can obtain this type of weed killer from your local lawn and garden store.

You can determine if a product is 2,4-D by looking at the label on the product bottle. Also read the label to ensure the product is labeled for use on your lawn and labeled to control dandelion and other weeds you are targeting. A 2,4-D type weed killer or other broadleaf herbicide will also kill other broadleaf weeds. Just be careful as it can kill desired plants if you spray off target such as bushes and flowers.

When sprayed in the early spring or the fall, 2,4-D is an effective measure of control. Just make sure to read the label before spraying to make sure you use the correct amount of spray and correct mix!

Here at Boxman Lawn Service, all of our Fertilization/Weed Control plans control and eliminate these weeds plus many others. Our programs use 2,4-D as well as pre-emergent. Our goal is to kill them in their most susceptible stages and prevent them so that they don’t have a chance to mature and multiply.

How Can I Get Rid of Crabgrass and Other Weeds?

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 18:35:02 GMT

Does my lawn need pre-emergent?

If you want a weed-free lawn this season, yes, you need pre-emergent. It’s your best line of defense especially against crabgrass. Pre-emergent creates a barrier on the ground to keep plants from germinating. It’s important for your fertilization program to include a pre-emergent.

When is the best time to apply pre-emergent?

March is the best time to start your applications and is the time to apply pre-emergent for crabgrass. You can apply multiple times through the year to hit key intervals for other weeds just be sure not to over apply and go over the labeled rates on the herbicide products.

Will it hurt my grass and plants?

The beauty of pre-emergent is that it is not a contact killer, so it is safe to use around live vegetation. It is safe to spray near live flowers and bushes and you don’t have to worry about overspray.

Pre-emergent prevents plants from germinating and growing in, and that includes seeds you do want to grow. For example, you cannot put pre-emergent down and then overseed Fescue grass. The same goes for flower beds when planting from seed.

Will it kill the weeds already growing in my lawn?

Pre-emergent is not a contact killer, so it stops new weeds from germinating, but it won’t kill the weeds already growing. You will have to add a broadleaf herbicide into your spray mix or spray it in addition. If you add a broadleaf/post emergent herbicide, it can and will hurt other vegetation on your property such as flowers and bushes.

Can I do it myself?

Home improvement stores do carry pre-emergent that you can mix and apply yourself at home, but there are some things you should consider before trying it yourself. Putting down too much pre-emergent can harm your lawn in the future because it makes weeds resistant to it. If you put down too little, the same thing can happen because the weeds mutate. The product label specifies exactly how to mix, apply, and has directions for use. Applying these products against label recommendations is against the law.

Consider hiring a professional. They know how much to apply. Be aware it’s also dangerous to mix chemicals if you don’t know what you are doing. Spray techs at Boxman Lawn Services are educated and certified.

Is it dangerous for my pets or family?

The spray is safe once it’s down and dry. It can be toxic while mixing and applying. You will need proper safety equipment like gloves, rubber boots, good pants and a long sleeve shirt and eye-protection. Always read the product label as it will have all the information for how to stay safe.

What to Consider When Hiring A Lawn Care Company

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 15:52:45 GMT

Consider These 8 Things for Hiring Lawn Care

If your looking to hire lawn care, consider the following:

1. Hire a company that offers a guarantee

Your lawn care service should offer a satisfaction guarantee or your money back. It shows quality. It shows they stand behind their work. If you aren’t satisfied, we will come back out to your property and make it right. If you are still not happy, you don’t owe us anything.

2. Get a company that specializes in what you want.

It’s important to consider hiring a company that specializes. Some full-service companies do quite a few services, and they do good work. Those companies are large and have divisions for each kind of service. Smaller companies offer the best results when they focus on fewer services because they have more experience and stay consistent.

If you are looking for design and install, hire a company that specializes in design and install. If you are looking for maintenance, hire a company that can do all your cutting, trimming and treating maintenance needs. Some maintenance companies will even do minor enhancements for you.

3. Ask about insurance.

If an uninsured worker gets hurt while they are working on your property, you could be held liable. That’s why it’s important to hire an insured company and any injuries on the job are covered by workers comp, not you.

Spending a little extra for a company that provides that protection eliminates the chance that could be liable for more money down the road. The value of that can’t be calculated.

4. Ask if they are certified.

One of the biggest fears people have when they start hiring things like chemical services is getting ripped off. It’s really hard to know what’s in that spray tank. How do you really know that they’re fertilizing or treating pests?

Certifications are important for any company that’s working with chemicals. Certifications mean they received education and passed a test for that particular service. It means that the workers understand the risks and know how to perform the job safely. They also know plant identification to make sure they’re treating it properly.

The state of Kansas has multiple categories for licenses. Putting products on ornamental plants or bushes is a different license than treating lawn pests.

5. The company should run on a consistent schedule.

A good lawn company has a consistent schedule. If a company is very loose about how often they want to come take care of your property, it’s a big red flag. In lawn care, weather is a factor. Rain can delay care one or more days. It’s important for a company to keep up on jobs and clearly communicate with you if weather is going to delay your service.

Boxman Lawn Service texts and emails customers to communicate about weather delays.

6. You should receive frequent communication.

A reliable service company will address your concerns-head on. If you are concerned about keeping gates closed for pets, or the safety of the chemicals on your lawn, your lawn company should be able to show you policies they have in place and offer you valuable education.

Boxman Lawn Service keeps notes on each property. If you have specific requests, crew members read through your requests each time before starting the service. This includes properly opening and shutting gates to keep your pet in and safe.

7. Online client portals are best for you.

You deserve a transparent billing system. Online client portals offer 24/7 instant access to your service history and invoices. Companies who use online portals prove that they have a record-keeping system. Your payments will complete instantly, removing the worry of a lost check or cash.

Boxman Lawn Service charges your card automatically on the Tuesday following your service to help you stay on top of your payments. That way, your service doesn’t get behind because of a bill or lost payment.

8. Don’t shop by price alone.

Money matters a lot, but the price alone can’t tell you the quality of work. Customers should also consider the price of doing business with each company.

An uninsured, uncertified company may offer the lowest price up front, but it could be more costly if they cause damage on your property and you’re responsible for repairing or replacing it. They may also have hidden fees, and you could end up paying more than you expected.

What Type of Grass Do I Have?

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 01:01:56 GMT

Identify the grass in your lawn

In the Wichita Kansas area as well as other parts of Kansas, there are multiple species of grass. All types of grasses have their pros and their cons. Different varieties have their own special properties that make them better suited for different lawns and applications.

I could write for hours describing how each variety of grass looks and what it may be best suited for and where it should be planted. To keep this brief and to the point, I am going to describe and show a couple of pictures that may help you identify your lawn’s grass type.

We are narrowing it down to the two most common. Fescue and Bermuda.

Knowing your grass type is important for knowing how to maintain it.

This allows you to properly care for it in these categories.

1. Fertilizing

2. Weed control

3. Mowing

4. Aeration

Two Most Common Grass Types in Kansas

Fescue and Bermuda

Fescue greens up in March and stays green usually until December. It may turn slightly brown in the middle of the hot summer due to stress. The blades are wider than Bermuda (not all fescues are wide blade) and grows more in clumps.

Bermudagrass is a warm season grass that will go dormant and turn completely brown in the winter time. Bermuda will actually grow back from the roots in the spring. It is more sensitive to the cold that tall Fescue. Bermuda will typically start growing and turning green in April and lasts until a freeze in October. You can also Identify Bermuda because it will grow horizontally with long chutes in thin areas or along curbing and pavement.

If you still aren’t sure, you may have another variety of grass called Zoysia or another type of Fescue.

Fescue

Bermuda

When Should I Apply Pre-Emergent?

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 01:01:51 GMT

Get Ahead of Weeds and Crabgrass

Fertilizing and weed control are some of the most important aspects to a thriving lawn. Today, our focus is on weed control and what a pre-emergent is, and when to apply it for a better lawn.

Pre-emergent is a type of herbicide that controls weeds by preventing their germination. We commonly refer to pre-emergent herbicides as crabgrass preventer. This is because a spring time treatment to the lawn at the correct time, eliminates the majority of crabgrass for that season. Pre (meaning before) is exactly what it sounds like. You want to apply pre-emergent products BEFORE the weeds are present.

Short answer: If you’re looking to minimize weeds and crabgrass in Kansas, apply it to your lawn between the last week in February and the 15th of March for best results. Remember to water after applying if it doesn't rain.

I will have other posts describing how to find your own pre-emergent products at the local lawn and garden store and how to know if it is the right product for you.

Crabgrass germinates when the soil warms to above a certain temperature which will vary year to year. It is important to have the pre-emergent applied and activated in the ground by this time for best results. The time frame I gave is recommended as this ensures it is down in time to work. Pre-emergent has to be watered in or rain has to push it into the soil to activate it. So, after it is applied, it won’t actually do its job until watered into the top layer of soil.

Just because you don’t see the weeds, doesn’t mean you don’t need a pre-emergent. Applying a pre-emergent is one of the crucial elements to a better lawn.

7 Tips for Winterizing your Lawn Mower

david@boxmanlawnservice.com (David Boxman) — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 01:01:48 GMT

Neglecting Your Lawn Mower Can Cost You!

At Boxman Lawn Service, we focus our time making lawns the best they can be. This gets into topics of how to properly maintenance and maintain mowers and equipment. Today, I want to share 7 of the steps you can take to ensure the longevity of your machine so that it will start when you need it this spring. We take these same measures on our mowers.

Stabilize the Fuel

One of the most common problems for mowers not starting in the spring is old fuel. Adding a fuel stabilizer purchased from the hardware or auto parts store ensures this isn’t a problem. It is also a good idea to add this to your gas can. Use the recommended rate on the fuel stabilizer bottle.

Run the mower after the stabilizer is added to ensure there isn’t old gas in the carburetor. You can also run the mower out of gas after dumping the excess out.

Remove the batter

If you have a riding mower or an electric start, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry location away from anything flammable like gasoline. Before you install the batter back on the mower in the spring, throw it on the charger to get it to full capacity.

If you have a battery powered mower, it is also a good idea to take the battery off and store it inside for the winter.

Remove Spark Plug

Replace the spark plug with one recommended by the manufacturer. Remove the spark plug and spray a shot of oil into the cylinder. Pull the recoil handle several times to ensure that the oil is evenly distributed on the wall of the cylinder. Replace the old spark plug with a new one.

Clean/Replace Air Filter

Depending upon the owner’s manual recommendations for your mower, you may either need to clean your air filter or replace it altogether. This can sometimes be determined with a visual inspection of the filter. Be careful using compressed air on the filter to clean it as this can damage the filter.

Change Oil

Drain the oil from the mower and replace with the exact type and weight recommended in the owner’s manual. Recycling of the old oil can be done at a car-repair shop or auto parts store.

Sharpen Blades and Grease the Mower

Sharp blades are super important to cutting the lawn properly. Before dealing with the blade, take the wire off of the spark plug for safety. Remove the blade and sharpen it yourself with a grinder or take it to a mower shop to have it sharpened for you. While the blade is off is a great time to clean/scrape the bottom of the deck ensuring you remove all caked-on grass clippings. Re install the blade following the guidelines set forth in your owner’s manual. Once blade is replaced, grease all areas of the mowers with moving parts and spray oil on all cables and pivot points.

Storage

Finally, store the mower preferably inside the garage or shed. If this isn’t possible, tarp the mower. If mice are present, place tamper-resistant, pet safe bait stations under the mower to discourage mice from chewing up electrical wiring.

You Ask we Answer

DIY Lights: Safely Decking the Halls with Lights this Holiday Season

How to Safely Deck the Halls with Holiday Lights

1. Be Cautious

2. Use GFCI Outlets

3. Be Aware of the Types of Extension Cords You Use

4. Purchase the Correct Lights

5. Choose the Right Bulbs

6. Utilize Net Lighting for Bushes

What to Look For in a Holiday Lighting Company

The Holiday Season is Coming: is Your House Ready?

What Safety Standards Do They Have?

High-quality products

How to Get a Sticker Free Yard

A Guide to Removing Stickers from Your Yard

What are Lawn Stickers?

Avoiding Stickers in Your Yard

Getting Rid of Grass Burrs in Your Yard

Method #1: Pull Them Out

Method #2: Applying a Pesticide

Which Method Should You Use?

Guide to Identifying Your Midwestern Grass

Types of grass in the Midwest

Fine Fescue

Advantages

Disadvantages

Kentucky Bluegrass

Advantages

Disadvantages

Perennial Ryegrass

Advantages

Disadvantages

Bermuda

Advantages

Disadvantages

Zoysia

Advantages

Disadvantages

Conclusion

How do I Tell if I Have a Mosquito Problem?

1. Standing water around your property.

2. If you live in a humid area.

3. You get bit often.

4. Shaded areas around your home.

5. You will notice them in the kitchen

6. When you see mosquitoes at any time of the day.

Hiring a Professional Lawn Care Company

What to Know When Hiring a Professional Lawn Mowing Company:

What Services are Included with a Professional Lawn Mowing Job?

The Complete Guide to Lawn Fertilization

How to Fertilize Your Lawn Properly:

When Should You Fertilize?

What to Look for in a Fertilizer:

Granules or Spray?

How Much Should You Use?

How Many Applications Does Your Lawn Need?

How to Mow Your Lawn Without Damaging Your Grass

How Often to Mow Your Lawn?

What Time of Day Should You Mow Your Lawn?

What Height Should I Mow My Grass?

Ensure you Don't Spray Chemicals before Mowing

It Is Important to Vary Your Mowing Pattern

Ensure you Don't Stick to a Schedule

Don't Move the Grass Clippings

Don't Mow a New Lawn Immediately

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How Much Water Does Your Lawn Actually Need?

When Should You Water Your Lawn

How Much Water Your Lawn Needs

How Much Water Your Lawn Needs

The Soil

Using a Sprinkler System

Use Rain Gauge or Similar Product

Measure Water Output Using a Flow Timer

Other Watering Tips

Ensure Your Lawn Gets What it Needs

Prepare Your Lawn This Spring Season

When Should You Start Your Spring Lawn Treatment?

How to Deal with Weeds in Your Lawn.

Apply Fertilizer to Your Lawn