[IMG]http://simplefeed.consumerreports.org/rsrc/i/1/_/save_time_and_money_with_our_quick_easy_lawncare_1 04278602/4.gif?f=3dcb3160-01dc-11dc-32a2-0019bbc55f7f&s=AewyNia7NTvDvhaDemju5DEsbnVsbCwwLDA *[/IMG] Save time and money with our quick, easy lawn-care tips: Part I

Excerpted from "Hassle-Free Lawns and Yards," in the May 2009 issue of Consumer Reports, these quick tips can save you loads of time on your yard work and maybe even some money, too. The first five tips are below; the next five will run tomorrow.

1. Fertilize less
Early fertilizing makes for greener lawns but in the end you'll get more weeds and a greater chance of lawn diseases and have more work to do. Instead, test your soil for pH and specific missing nutrients. Instead of buying a soil-test kit (watch the video, right), have your soil analyzed by your local cooperative extension service. And use these additional fertilizing tips.



2. Maintain your mower
A sharp blade can reduce fuel costs by up to 25 percent. Sharpen and balance blades three times a season and buy a second blade ($15 to $20) to use while the other is being serviced. Learn mower about lawn mowers and tractors.

3. Thicken your turf
Bare patches of lawn left unseeded will quickly fill with weeds. Buy "weed free" seed with a germination date that's less than a year old. Cover seed with a fine layer of soil, compost, or peat moss. Add starter fertilizer and gently pack the soil down with the back of a hoe or shovel.

4. Mow less
Trimming grass too short weakens the roots. Never remove more than one-third of the blade's total height. If your lawn develops a whitish hue, you're probably taking too much off the top. Try these additional mowing tips.

5. Add compost
A quarter-inch of top-dressing compost applied once or twice a cuts the need for fertilizer and water. A compost bin or heap provides a ready supply of compost for your lawn and lets you recycle non-animal food waste.?Gian Trotta | e-mail | Twitter


Essential information: Boost the curb appeal of your home, create an outdoor-entertainment area, or add privacy with these yard makeovers. Our lawn-and-yard guide offers more articles and videos to help you create great outdoor spaces.

Subscribe now!
Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org for expert Ratings, buying advice and reliability on hundreds of products. Update your feed preferences