What's the best way to maintain your lawn?
In the Washington area, maintaining a lush, green lawn involves a number of things, from consistent mowing, to weeding, watering, fertilization aeration and more. The average lawn size here in Washington is 8,349 square feet, which typically takes 75 minutes to mow if you do it yourself.
Additionally, you'll want to fertilize your lawn 4 times per year, with each application tailored to that time of year. It's also a good idea to get a soil test done once every 2-4 years to ensure your soil isn't lacking key nutrients. Professional fertilization in Washington averages about $60 per application, and includes spot weed treatment.
Aeration is a process that relieves compaction, helps grass establish roots, and allows air and nutrients to reach the soil. Ideally, you should aerate once per year, every three years at the very minimum. Despite it's importance, only 15 percent of Washington homeowners get aeration. Aeration in Washington costs $155 on average, but depends on lawn size, and should be done in spring or fall.
Finally, watering is critical. You'll generally want to water in the morning before 7:10 am or in the evening after 4:42 pm so the water does not evaporate. Washington does not have watering restrictions.
How much does it cost to have your lawn mowed in Washington?
While the average cost of grass cutting in Washington is $39.49, the price depends primarily on lawn size and mowing frequency.
Here is the average price in Washington by lawn size:
- 1/8 Acre: $32.7
- 1/4 Acre: $34.5
- 1/3 Acre: $37.5
- 1/2 Acre: $55.7
Here is the average mowing price by frequency:
- Weekly: $31.98
- Biweekly: $44.22
- Monthly: $48.57
Two other factors that can increase price are corner lots and gates. In Washington, 50% of homes are on a corner lot, and 50% of homes have backyard gates.
Can I get fined for not cutting my lawn?
First, you'll have to check your Homeowners Association rules. In Washington, 62% of homeowners are part of a HOA, and most HOAs have restrictions on grass and overgrown bushes.