As a Lake Martin homeowner, you want your lawn to look beautiful all summer long! If you’re selling in the Lake Martin real estate market, it’s essential for your lawn to look great for curb appeal and listing photos, as the outside of your house is usually the first photo a potential buyer will see. Whether selling or not, as your Lake Martin real estate team, we’re here to fill you in on the most common lawn care mistakes for you to avoid this season!

Cutting too short – Most homeowners would rather be spending their summers out on Lake Martin than mowing the lawn. We understand! But cutting the grass too short doesn’t allow the grass to absorb sunlight and water properly, and could impede its growth. Don’t mow shorter than 2.5 inches.

Not watering enough – The rain helps, but now we’re getting into the heart of summer! Experts say that most grass needs 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Turning on a sprinkler system for ten minutes probably won’t cut it. On dry weeks, try running your irrigation systems for 30 minutes per day. Put out a can in the lawn next time you water and see how long it takes to fill to 1 inch.

Watering at wrong times – If you water in the middle of the day, the water may just evaporate from the heat, and if you water at night, the water may just sit on the grass overnight and could cause issues. Water early in the morning, a bit after the sun comes out, or in the evening, before it gets dark.

Using too much fertilizer – If you have brown grass or patches, your lawn does probably need a fertilizer. But don’t just dump a bag on and call it a day! Follow the directions on the bag, and don’t apply right before a rain, as it could run off with the rain water. Compost is another great option! If you haven’t fertilized yet, consider doing so in the fall, as the grass may be too hot and dry in the middle of summer.

When you’re ready to sell your Lake Martin home, really spruce up your curb appeal! Show off your green lawn, put away any toys or gardening tools so your yard looks clean, stage your fire pit so it looks all ready for a backyard fire, clean your patio furniture, power wash your siding, repaint your front door if needed, and display some colorful flowers by your front door!

Enjoy your favorite summer activities on Lake Martin, and in your beautiful Lake Martin yard! When ready to achieve your Lake Martin real estate goals, contact us, the Haynie Team. We are here to answer any questions you may have about the local real estate market, or Lake Martin and the surrounding area, and we are ready to help you sell, buy or both this summer!

Becky Haynie, Associate Broker / Realtor
Lake Martin Realty
www.HomeOnLakeMartin.com