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Learn more about natural lawns 9/16

August 18, 2017 03:45 PM
Urbana_8
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Help us kickoff a natural lawn care program September 16
The City of Urbana will demonstrate the natural lawn care approach alongside the Urbana Park District and MPAC on Saturday, September 16 at the City of Urbana Building’s south lawn across the street from Urbana’s Market at the Square (400 S Vine St.).

From 10 to11:45am, experts from MPAC will host interactive, informative games covering different aspects of the natural lawn care approach. Following the games at 11:45 am, both Mayor Marlin and Urbana Park District’s Director Tim Bartlett will kickoff the natural lawn care programs of the City and Park District with short presentations and a raffle for Patagonia outdoor clothing and gear.

“The Urbana Park District uses an integrated approach to pest management for its flower beds and sports fields. And we have a long history of promoting sustainability through our natural areas and our organic gardening program. We encourage the use of natural control methods whenever possible and support growing that effort in Urbana,” explained Bartlett.

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Keep Your Lawn Safe and Healthy: Take the Natural Lawn Care pledge from the Midwest Pesticide Action Center
Urbana residents are encouraged to use natural lawn care techniques and join us in taking the pledge to reduce synthetic lawn pesticide and fertilizer use at bit.ly/MGGpledge.

It’s a simple and cost-effective method of maintaining your green spaces.
Follow these four tips, and you can enjoy a beautiful, safe lawn for your children, pets and the environment:

  • Water Deeply and Infrequently: This encourages deep root growth. Aim for one inch per week. Measure that amount by placing a cup in your yard while watering. You’re done watering for the week when the cup fills one inch deep. Water early in the morning to minimize disease problems.
  • Mow High: Keep your lawn mowed at three inches or higher. This increases root strength and naturally shades out weeds, so your grass withstands drought and stays green longer. Don’t mow unless needed.
  • Use Organic Fertilizer: Commercial fertilizers easily wash away, polluting nearby lakes and streams. Many contain toxic weed killers. Choose an organic fertilizer to capture and deliver nutrients in the lawn throughout the growing season. Keep grass clippings on the lawn as they provide an excellent natural fertilizer.
  • Weed Naturally: Proper lawn care maintenance naturally eliminates most weeds. Annual reseeding gives grass an advantage over weeds. Avoid using pesticides, as they can harm other beneficial living things such as bees, worms, and birds. The right tool makes quick work of weeding. After pulling weeds, use grass seed and soil to fill in the hole. Your grass will grow strong and healthy as a result.
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