Celebrate the Benefits of Healthy Lawns in April

HERNDON, Va., April 4, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Professional Landcare Network, PLANET, today announced that April is National Lawn Care Month and reminded consumers about the benefits of a healthy lawn and the importance of caring for the lawn.  PLANET is the international organization representing lawn care and landscape professionals worldwide. 

"A healthy lawn not only adds curb appeal, but also provides energy efficiency in buildings and homes," says Gerald J. Grossi, Landscape Industry Certified Technician, president of PLANET.

More than 30 million acres of lawn exist in the United States. It's estimated that these lawns remove 5 percent of the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere as well as provide money-saving cooling effects in the summer months.

A well-maintained, 50-foot by 50-foot lawn produces enough oxygen for a family of four. Eight healthy front lawns have the cooling effect of 70 tons of air conditioning—enough to cool 16 average homes. Dense, healthy grass slows down and filters runoff, removing contaminants and trapping soil. Clean, filtered water then returns to the underground water supply. Turf also provides pollution control by trapping dust and smoke particles from the atmosphere. 

The healthier the turf, the thicker the roots, and it's this thick carpet of healthy turf that effectively filters and purifies both air and water.

Lawns and green spaces also provide places for recreation. A recent study found a lower incidence of childhood obesity in regions where there were lawns, parks and school fields for recreation.

Caring for lawn is important. Homeowners can be proactive in April by reviewing their lawn and doing the following:

Clear the lawn of leaves, downed branches and other debris that have fallen during the winter.

Aerate the lawn if it seems compacted, if moss is growing or the grass has worn down. Machines can be rented or a professional can provide the service.

Check the lawn's pH balance. Grass grows best in soil with a well-balanced pH level. Many local extension offices provide this service.

Remove weeds and get a head start on the season before weeds can mature.

Seed the lawn.  Spring is a good time to get grass seed down, especially in areas where there is high traffic. A lawn care professional can advise on what types of seed or sod are best for your lawn and your area.

Homeowners can consult with a lawn care professional to put together a program that ensures their lawns will be healthy and beautiful throughout the year. 

For more information, or to find a green industry professional, log on to LandcareNetwork.org/findaprofessional.

PLANET is the association of members who create and maintain the quality of life in communities across America. With more than 3,800 members, these firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals. Some of these professionals have taken the extra step of becoming certified through PLANET and bear the distinction of being known as Landscape Industry Certified.

Contact:
Vicki Bendure, APR,
540- 687-3360

SOURCE Professional Landcare Network