Page 6 March 22 & April 12, 2026 • www. mcrecord. com • Morrison County Record • Spring Home & Garden
Choosing a lawn care service that’ s right for you
GREENSHOOT MEDIA
A healthy lawn can boost curb appeal and make outdoor spaces more enjoyable, but maintaining it through the spring and summer can take time homeowners don’ t always have.
Hiring a lawn care service can help your grass stay strong, green and well cared for.
With many companies offering a wide range of services, choosing the right one starts with understanding what you need, what they offer and how to compare packages.
Most lawn care services begin with basic maintenance. This usually includes mowing, edging and trimming. Many companies also offer fertilization and weed control, pest treatment, aeration and overseeding. Some handle additional tasks such as irrigation checks, small landscaping jobs or shrub trimming. Before comparing companies, make a list of the tasks you want help with and note any specific issues such as persistent weeds or patchy growth.
Qualifications
Experience and reputation matter when choosing a lawn care provider. A good first step is to look for companies with trained staff, proper licensing and clear safety practices. Many states require certification for anyone applying chemical treatments. If your lawn needs fertilizing, weed control or pest management, it is worth confirming the technician handling those materials is licensed.
Online reviews and local recommendations can also help identify which companies are reliable and consistent.
Exploring Packages
Comparing packages is often where the decision becomes more clear. Most lawn care services offer tiered plans ranging from basic mowing to fullseason maintenance. A basic package may include weekly or biweekly mowing and edging. Mid-level packages might add weed treatments or fertilizing. Premium packages typically include a full schedule of seasonal services such as early spring fertilizing, late spring weed control, summer insect treatments and fall aeration.
When reviewing packages, pay attention to how often services are performed and what products are used. Fertilizers and weed control materials vary widely in quality and environmental impact. Some companies use slow-release fertilizers while others apply quick-release varieties that may require more frequent treatments. Homeowners concerned about kids, pets or pollinators may want to ask about organic or low-impact options.
Understanding treatments is another key part of the process. Fertilization typically involves two or more applications throughout the growing season. Weed control may focus on pre-emergent treatments that prevent weeds from sprouting or post-emergent treatments that target weeds already growing. Some packages include both. Pest control services can help
manage grubs, chinch bugs and other insects that damage grass. If your lawn struggles with bare spots, overseeding or aeration may be included to help improve soil health and encourage new growth.
Questions to Ask
Before signing up, homeowners should ask several important questions. Confirm whether the company offers customized plans or uses a one-size-fits-all approach. Ask whether they provide free estimates and whether a lawn analysis is included. Clarify how long treatments last and whether follow-up visits are covered if results fall short. Find out about scheduling flexibility and what happens during weather delays.
Finally, check the contract details. Some companies require a seasonal agreement while others allow month-to-month service. Make sure the pricing is clear and that there are no hidden fees for extra treatments or reapplications.