Everyone loves a soft, green lawn. But maintaining a beautiful lawn without the use of toxic chemicals might be like speaking a foreign language to some homeowners.

The truth is, once you take a little time to learn the basics of organic lawn care, you will be pleased with the results and the low cost involved in keeping your lawn beautiful.

To begin, consider having your soil tested. Most grass thrives best in a neutral to slightly acidic environment, with a pH between 6.5 and 7, so this is helpful information to know. You can either have a university extension come and do the testing for you, as some will perform this service at no charge, or you can purchase an inexpensive testing kit from a gardening supply store.

Once you know your soil’s pH, you are ready to proceed. If your soil’s pH is below 6.5, you will need to increase its acidity. You can do this many ways but adding sand to the soil or sprinkling used tea bags has always worked well for me. If your soil is too alkaline, adding a lime-based product or a little compost tea will work wonders.

Now, let’s talk about watering. In order for water to do any good for your lawn, it must reach the grass’ roots. Aerating your lawn will help with this. Purchase an inexpensive pair of aerating sandals and walk around your yard in them. They look like plastic sandals with lots of little spikes sticking out the bottom, and their purpose is to “open” the surface of the soil and allow the water to penetrate more easily below the surface rather than running off or puddling. This also allows the water to carry that lime mixture straight to the roots of your lawn.

Afterward, consider mulching your lawn at least half the time that you mow, as replacing nutrients in the soil is best accomplished by adding natural organic matter to it. Mulching also reduces the need for yard waste removal by your local trash department. You may also consider adding organic fertilizers such as worm castings, kelp and fish fertilizers, and organic composted materials from your own kitchen. These will all provide the basic building-blocks needed for your grass to grow lush and green without using harsh chemicals, and at a much-reduced cost by comparison.

Water is important also, but don’t over-do it. Water during the cool hours of the evening to increase absorption and reduce evaporation, allowing the lawn a long cool drink overnight before the sun rises on it in the morning. Enjoy caring for your lawn, relishing the peace and quite while you water and learning the combination of materials and mechanical effort your lawn requires. You will be glad you chose the greener way to a green lawn!