Chemical weed killers, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides are not used by organic farmers because these are poisons that can cause health problems and affect our wildlife, and our children's health and growth.  Children who live in homes where chemical weed and insect killers are used are four times as likely at developing cancer according to the American Journal of Public Health.  Most of these insecticides are not tested for long-term safety of our health. 

Integrated Pest Management works with nature to control weeds and insects naturally.  Instead of reaching for chemicals and pesticides to create a lush lawn that harms our children, our health, our pets, the birds, squirrels, insects and other animals, our waters, and our world, grow a lush lawn naturally and easily. 

The most important thing is to choose the right grass for your area.

1. Soil - keep it healthy

   • Earthworms will help create nutrient-rich soil for healthy grass to thrive.

   • Mulch from your compost will fertilize your soil naturally.

   • Aerate the top 3-4 inches of soil (6 inches apart) when you see water standing instead of being absorbed into the soil.

2. Mow - frequently but keep the lawn taller than usual

   • Mow at the right height for your grass but leave it on the higher end.  Three inches tall is a good rule of thumb.  The higher the grass, the deeper the root systems, the better the grass can withstand drought, pests, heat, shade, and disease.  Mowing is the key to a lush organic lawn.

   • Mow often as the grass grows.

   • Never cut off more than 1/3 off the top.

   • Let the clippings nourish the soil.

   • Keep the blade sharp on your mower.

3. Water - frequently but sparingly

   • Moderately and frequently.

   • The right amount for your type of grass.

   • Early in the morning.

Potential Problems:

• Grass doesn't spring back when you walk on it - water

• Grass is brown - water

• Soil seems dry - water

• Water sits in the yard - aerate

• Grass is yellow - fertilize

• Thatch problems - less fertilizing, watering, more mowing

• There are a few weeds - that's normal, relax.

• Grass isn't growing in the shad - consider other options and plants that like shade.

• Lots of weeds -  try organic vinegar-based herbicide or Burn-Out Weed Killer

• Insects eating the lawn - there are natural bacteria, Milky Spore, that can help

• Just not working - throw some clover seeds around

• Crabgrass and other weeds growing - use  corn gluten meal

• Bugs eating lawn, ticks or infestation of other bugs - Diatomaceous Earth for Natural Tick, Flea, & Ant Control

• Mosquitoes overtaking your yard so you can't enjoy it - Mosquito & Tick Repellant

• Home-made pest control and take Less Toxic Steps

• Taking Care of your Lawn without Pesticides, The O'Mama Report
• Organic Lawn Care, Organic Gardening
• A Do It Yourself Guide For and Organic Lawn
• The Grass is Greener, LocalMotion
• 12 Steps to Organic Lawn Care, Organic Landscape
• Simple Steps Towards Organic Lawn Care
• Organic Lawn Care FAQs
• Gardening Guide - what to plant, Whitney Farms
• Beneficial Landscaping, EPA
• Worm's Way, offers some organic options for pest control and natural fertilizer
• Poison In The Grass:  The Hazards And Consequences of Lawn Pesticides, Nathan Diegelman
• Natural & Organic Approach - Common Sense Landscape & Garden Care - articles and products
• Breaking the Lawn-Care Pesticide Cycle, E-Magazine
• Flowers, Why Choose Organic Flowers
• Common Sense Pest Control in Broward, FL
• Organic Flower Garden, Do It Yourself
• Organic Gardening Magazine, Organic Gardening
• Love Your Trees
• Gardens Off Drugs