When it comes to lawn care, there’s no shortage of advice—but not all of it is accurate. At Northern Turf, we often hear well-meaning homeowners following outdated or misleading practices that can actually harm their grass more than help it. To help you grow a greener, healthier lawn this summer, we’re setting the record straight on some of the most common myths we hear throughout Northern Maine.
Lawn Care Myth #1: Watering Every Day Keeps the Lawn Greener
Truth: Deep, infrequent watering (1–2 times per week) promotes deeper roots and better drought tolerance.
While it might seem like watering daily is the best way to keep your lawn lush, doing so actually encourages shallow root systems. This makes your lawn more dependent on frequent irrigation and less resilient during dry spells. Instead, aim for one or two deep waterings per week—providing about an inch of water total. This approach helps your grass grow deeper roots and become more self-sufficient through the summer heat.
Lawn Care Myth #2: Cutting Grass Very Short Reduces Mowing Frequency
Truth: Scalping stresses turf, encourages weeds, and increases water demand.
We get it—you want to mow less. But setting your mower too low can backfire. Cutting grass too short (also known as scalping) weakens the turf, exposes the soil to sunlight (encouraging weeds), and dries out your lawn faster. The sweet spot? Keep your mower height at 3 to 4 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, keeps roots cooler, and promotes a thicker, healthier lawn.
Lawn Care Myth #3: Spring Fertilization Is Enough for the Whole Season
Truth: Lawns in Northern Maine benefit from seasonal feedings to sustain growth and color into hotter months and then again in fall.
A single spring fertilizer application can give your lawn a boost, but it won’t carry you through Maine’s summer conditions. As temperatures rise, your grass needs additional nutrients to stay green, resist stress, and fend off disease. That’s why a properly timed early summer and fall treatments are key—it helps maintain color and vigor when your lawn needs it most.
Lawn Care Myth #4: All Bugs Are Bad for Your Lawn
Truth: Beneficial insects (like ground beetles) improve soil aeration and pest control.
Not all insects are enemies of your turf. While some pests certainly do damage like we’re seeing with white grubs, others play an important role in your lawn’s health. Ground beetles, for example, help control grubs and other harmful insects. If you’re unsure whether what you’re seeing is harmful insect damage, reach out to our team for guidance.
Lawn Care Myth #5: Lawn Treatments Work Instantly
Truth: Even professional treatments need time and the right conditions to show results—patience pays off.
While professional lawn applications are highly effective, they’re not magic. Fertilizers, weed controls, and insecticides all require time to work—and their success often depends on factors like weather, mowing habits, and irrigation. If you’ve just had a treatment, trust the process. With consistency and care, you’ll see the full benefits unfold over the weeks ahead.
Partner with Northern Turf for Lawn Care You Can Trust
Avoiding these common lawn care mistakes can make a big difference in the look and health of your grass this summer. And if you’re ready to take the guesswork out of lawn care, Northern Turf is here to help. Our expert team knows exactly what Northern Maine lawns need—season after season.
Call us today at 207-544-9420 or contact us online to schedule your next treatment. Let’s grow something great together!