Summertime Lawn Care Necessities

Summer is still a few months away, but it's never too early to begin thinking about your lawn care regimen. After all, as one article noted:

In the summer season, caring for your lawn is something you might enjoy doing a bit more since the weather is nicer and more inviting. 

So, what is necessary for taking care of your lawn? If you have a sprinkler system, get in touch with an Orono MN lawn sprinklers company to have them checked out to ensure everything is in working order. You'll also want to have your lawn mowed on a regular basis, but making sure not to scalp your lawn. Weeding and recycling grass clippings are also important to keeping your lawn healthy. 

Read the entire article: "Caring For Your Lawn in the Summer." 

The Various Kinds of Lawn Sprinkler Systems

If you're an Edina homeowner and looking to upgrade your lawn sprinkler system, then you have a wide variety from which to choose. Of course, the type of sprinklers you choose is completely up to you, but it's wise to consult with an Edina sprinklers company about your choice. As one article recently noted:

However, different sprinklers are better used in certain other applications. Finding which one will work for your lawn or yard should be the result of research and discussion with professionals.

The most popular type of sprinkler is the spray head, as they are affordable and are viewed as "the" choice for those who want to keep their lawns healthy. Other choices include drip sprinklers and gear-driven rotors, which are also popular, but are used for smaller and larger areas respectively. 

Click here to read the entire article: "The Different Types of Lawn Sprinkler Systems."

Does Your Home Need a Sprinkler System?

A sprinkler system can help keep your lawn in good condition by providing it with the right amount of hydration, and by doing so on a regular, automatic basis (instead of relying on you to remember). There are some, though, that can benefit from the installation of an irrigation system like sprinklers a great deal. If you fall under one of the following categories, you could probably use a sprinkler system on your property.

You live in a drought-prone area. If rain is something that comes along every once in a while, and you commonly go days at a time without seeing a single drop, your lawn could absolutely benefit from regular watering sessions via a sprinkler system.

You have incredibly thirsty plants. Some shrubs and flowers require a lot more water than others. If you have plants that are constantly sucking down all of the water you’re giving them, they’re probably a lot more thirsty a lot more often than some of your other plants, and regular waterings could do them a lot of good.

You’re interested in doing less work. That’s the beauty of automation, right? With an automatic sprinkler system, you have one less thing on your plate to worry about -- the watering of your lawn and plants. When a sprinkler system is installed on your property, you can utilize that time for other things and still end up with a beautiful looking landscape.

Call Advanced Irrigation to learn more about how Anoka sprinkler systems can help you! (612) 599-8675.

Cover Your Sprinklers For Winter

When freezing temperatures hit your sprinklers in St. Paul, serious damage can be done to exposed faucets and pipes. As James Lucas, a writer for the Huntsville Item states, you should prioritize "Putting your garden to bed," including your sprinkler system.

"In our garden I began by covering all water faucets and wrapping exposed pipes. I'll include this obvious step in putting the garden to bed, because in my case I've had frozen sprinkler valves the past two winters - a very costly mistake. This year I spared no expense and wrapped and covered anything that could possibly be damaged by freezing temperatures."

Don't get caught with frozen sprinkler valves, yourself -- do your best to cover up any exposed pipes and faucets to keep things from freezing up and getting damaged. And, of course, if you have any problems with your irrigation system, give Advanced Irrigation a call at 612-599-8675.

Lawn Care FAQs

Here are some of the more common lawn care questions we get asked:

How high should my grass be mowed?

At least three inches or the highest setting on your mower. Never cut more than 1/3 of the grass height every time you mow.

How should I water my lawn?

Sprinkler systems are usually the best option. Your grass will receive deep, frequent waterings with automatic systems.

What’s the best way to remove weeds?

Either use a post-emergent herbicide or pull out the weeds by hand.

Can I level a bumpy lawn?

Yes. Fill in the low spots with 1/4-inch layer of topsoil or sand. You might find you have to fill gradually in low spots to avoid smothering the grass.

Should I use my clippings for mulch or bag them?

In most cases, mulch, as it returns nutrients and organic matter to the lawn. It will also help the lawn to retain water.

Advanced Irrigation knows Minneapolis lawn care. Enlist their services today by visiting www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com. 

Sprinkler Facts

If you’re not sold completely on the idea of sprinklers, here are some facts to consider:

• Sprinkler systems save water.
• Sprinklers can be installed after landscaping is done.
• Sprinklers can be easily updated.
• Your sprinkler system can be repaired easily in most cases.
• Sprinklers can be designed for your specific needs.

Advanced Irrigation knows sprinklers. Contact the Minneapolis sprinklers systems contractor by visiting www.Advanced-Irrigation-Minneapolis.com. 

Sprinklers FAQ – Part 2

Here are some more of the common questions we get about sprinklers:

Why is my rotary sprinkler not rotating?

If the sprinkler is no longer rotating or water flow has decreased, it could be the filter is clogged, so try cleaning it out. If this doesn’t solve the issue, then the internal assembly probably needs replaced.

What are irrigation zones? Do they matter?

Irrigation zones are planned before the system is installed. Each zone is divided by the amount of water needed for proper hydration. For example, zones in sunny areas might need water while zones in shaded areas can probably use less. These zone help determine water efficiency, meaning less waste.

What should I when starting my system up after the winter?

Have your irrigation system contractor go through their startup procedure, so they can make sure everything is in working order.

Does sprinkler system installation damage yards?

Installing a system requires pipe pulling, and many contractors have equipment and machines that install the pipe with minimal damage. Upon completion, the sprinkler lines are barely visible and will disappear as your lawn grows.

Do I need to winterize my system?

Yes. A winterized system will not be damaged during the cold months, while one that is not winterized can have frozen or damaged pipes or sprinkler heads.

How long does it take to install an irrigation system?

Many can be installed in one day, but depending on the size of the system and amenities, it might take longer.

Still have questions about sprinklers? Minneapolis sprinklers contractor Advanced Irrigation can help you at www.Advanced-Irrigation-Minneapolis.com. 

Sprinklers FAQ – Part 1

Here are some of the commonly asked questions we get regarding sprinklers:

How long should I water my lawn and garden?

This depends on your sprinkler system and its precipitation rate. A typical spray sprinklers run will water shrubs for 10 minutes, circle rotors for a half hour and full circle rotors for a full hour. Contact your local sprinkler installer to have your program set up.

What does a sprinkler system consist of?

The system efficiently waters your yard with sprinkler heads (spray or rotary) placed in a geometric pattern. It’s separated into zones to make the best use of water pressure and because your lawn’s watering needs vary by location. The final piece is a controller or timer dictates to the system when it operates.

My sprinklers won’t turn off.

Try unplugging the controller. If this does the trick, follow the manufacturer’s directions to reprogram the controller. Should the system not turn off, then turn off the water to the sprinklers and contact your sprinkler system company.

Do sprinklers conserve water?

Yes. One of the best reasons for getting an automatic irrigation system is they excel at water conservation. A system installed and maintained properly ensures total hydration coverage; and the correct water distribution, timing and calibration. The best time to water your plants is in the morning, as there is ample time for water to penetrate the ground, calmer wind and peak water pressure.

What do you think about rain sensors?

Rain sensors are one of the best ways to save water, as well as extend your system’s life. Plus, they allow your sprinklers to take a break when rain falls, so investigate adding one to your irrigation system.

Have sprinkler questions? Minneapolis sprinklers company Advanced Irrigation can help. Contact us by visiting www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com. 

Advanced Irrigation Has Tips on How to Tell if Your Sprinkler System is Leaking

No one likes a high water bill. The cost of everything is high already, so the last thing any of us need is to shell out more money on bills. If you’ve been noticing an increase in water usage – and hence your bill – your sprinkler system might be suffering from a water leak. Here are some ways to tell if your irrigation system has a hole in it: 

-          Shut off for a short a time all the water in your house. If your water meter still spins, then it could be a sprinklers leak. If this is the case, shut off all water to the system and call a professional like Advanced Irrigation.

-          If you notice broken sprinkler heads, then your system might have a leak.

-          If your system’s output has been weak and each sprinkler head is getting different coverage, a leak might be the culprit.

-          A leak can lead to brown spots on your yard. If you observe more and more brown spots, a water line or sprinkler head leak might be to blame.

-          Wet or soggy spots on your lawn could be due to an underground break. If you’ve ruled out all other issues, look next into an underground water leak.

-          Are your meter or valve boxes filled always with water, and it’s not the cause of other drainage issues? A sprinkler system leak might be to blame.

Advanced Irrigation serves the Twin Cities MN metro with sprinkler and irrigation systems. If you think your system has a leak, contact us today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com.

Stay Green This Summer: Irrigation Systems Explained – Drip Sprinklers

Summertime is approaching, and the hot sun can have damaging effects on your lawn. We are often too busy to give our yards the proper care and watering they deserve, so we rely on our sprinkler systems. Is your lawn irrigation system right for your property? Over the past few weeks, Advanced Irrigation Inc., the full service lawn care, sprinkler systems and irrigation systems experts for the Twin Cities MN communities, explained in this blog the different types of systems and how they might best benefit you.

It’s a common sight across America’s farmlands: crops lined up, with tubing adjacent. Each crop thirsts for sustenance, depending on the pipes to quench them. Drip irrigation systems are popular with the agricultural sector as they are among the most efficient irrigation method, wasting less water. While your front yard might not be full of crops, you can still utilize drip sprinklers for your flower beds or small gardens.

How Drip Sprinklers Work

Drip sprinklers apply water directly to the soil, down to the root. This is unlike conventional sprinkler systems, which spray water all over the lawn. Water is less likely to be wasted, as the slow drips won’t be caught by the wind. A drip sprinkle irrigation system consists of several sprinklers connected to the same hose. These rise out of the ground to spray your lawn, giving it the needed humidity.

Installation Process

The time it will take to install any sprinkler system depends on the size of the project. You should hire a professional irrigation system contractor for any sprinkler system installation since digging and pipe work are involved. One foible could turn into a water leak, and in turn an increased water bill. Professionals will avert these costly errors.

Drip Sprinklers’ Advantages

As noted previously, drip sprinkler irrigation systems are one of the most efficient irrigation methods, with a 90% success rate. Like with any sprinkler system, you won’t have to spend hours every summer day watering your lawn. These systems are perfect for small flowers, since the flower bed will not be eroded.

Contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com to learn more about drip sprinklers and what they can do for your Twin Cities MN property.

Stay Green This Summer: Irrigation Systems Explained – Gear-Driven Rotors

Summertime is approaching, and the hot sun can have damaging effects on your lawn. We are often too busy to give our yards the proper care and watering they deserve, so we rely on our sprinkler systems. Is your lawn irrigation system right for your property? Over the next few weeks, Advanced Irrigation Inc., the full service lawn care, sprinkler systems and irrigation systems experts of the Twin Cities MN communities, will explain in this blog the different types of systems and how they might best benefit you.

It’s the sound that everyone associates with sprinklers: “Click. Click. Click. Click. Click.” Rotor-type sprinklers (also known as gear-driven rotors, impact rotors, rotary sprinkler heads and rainbirds) are what people think about when think of sprinkler systems. Whenever a local newscast is doing a story about droughts or something related to irrigation systems, rotor sprinklers are the ones you’ll see, all thanks to that sound.

How Rotor Sprinklers Work

Sprinklers fall into two main types: spray-type and rotor-type. As explained in the last blog entry, spray sprinklers used a fixed water stream (think shower head), while rotor-type sprinkler systems use one or multiple rotating streams to water the ground. As is the case with spray systems, there are two types of rotor sprinkler heads available: pop-ups (which are preferred due to the aesthetic advantages) and shrub-style.

Installation Process

The time it will take to install any sprinkler system depends on the size of the project. You should hire a professional irrigation system contractor for any sprinkler system installation since digging and pipe work are involved. One mistake could turn into a water leak, which could turn into an increased water bill. Professionals will avert these expensive foibles.

Gear-Driven Rotors’ Advantages

Gear-driven rotors can shoot out a stream of water to distances up to 50 feet, making them the perfect choice for those with large yards or lawns. This system also comes with a variety of nozzles that allow the water to be sent out in different patterns.

Contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com to learn more about gear-driven rotors and what they can do for your Twin Cities MN property.

Stay Green This Summer: Irrigation Systems Explained – Spray Heads

Summertime is approaching, and the hot sun can have damaging effects on your lawn. We are often too busy to give our yards the proper care and watering they deserve, so we rely on our sprinkler systems. Is your lawn irrigation system right for your property? Over the next few weeks, Advanced Irrigation Inc., the full service lawn care, sprinkler systems and irrigation systems experts of the Twin Cities MN communities, will explain in this blog the different types of systems and how they might best benefit you.

It’s 6 a.m. The sun is just rising over the horizon, and you’re in your car driving to work. You’re about ready to get on the highway and all of a sudden, they pop out of the ground, and everything green is sprinkled with water. Your car might even be a slight victim of this H2O assault.

Spray head sprinkler systems are one of the most popular systems for keeping yards lush and green. They’re viewed often as the de facto choice for homeowners who want to ensure their vivid, green grass doesn’t turn into a dry, brown mess.

How Spray Heads Work

Spray head systems bodies, like other sprinkler and/or irrigation systems, come in two styles: pop-up and shrub. Pop-up spray heads pop out of the ground whenever the system is operating, then drop back down once the spraying is complete. Shrub spray heads sprays water over the plants, as these heads are mounted above ground level on a vertical pipe.

Installation Process

The installation timeframe depends on the size of the project. Since a sprinkler system installation involves digging and pipe work, we recommend you use a professional irrigation system contractor instead of doing the work yourself. Any mistake could result in water leaks, which means a higher water bill. A professional will be able to avert these missteps.

Generally, the installation of a spray head system involves building a manifold, a group of control valves, followed by pipe laying and connecting the spray heads.

Spray Heads Advantages

Spray heads are perfect for precise irrigation control over small areas. Most spray heads have a spraying range of 5-15 feet, and water pressure varies between 20-30 PSI.

Pop-up spray heads are arguably the heads of choice for many homeowners. They don’t detract from the landscape, as they are virtually invisible once the job is done. Shrub spray heads are perfect for areas with many tall, dense shrubs, but being above ground and noticeable can cause second thoughts about its utilization. Plus, they can be damaged by lawn care equipment and should not be used in areas next to a sidewalk, path, driveway, etc.

Irrigation professionals like Advanced Irrigation will go over the pros and cons of both during an initial consultation. Call us today at 612.599.8675 or get a Free Estimate at www.AdvancedIrrigationMn.com.

Visit Advanced Irrigation’s website for a free estimate

We’re not interested in wasting your time. Before Advanced Irrigation starts working on any irrigation systems or sprinkler systems, we want you to know what expect. That is why we offer the option to obtain a Free Estimate through www.AdvancedIrrigation.com.

For your irrigation systems, sprinkler systems and lawn care needs contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com and get a FREE ESTIMATE!

6 Ways to Reduce Watering

You want your lawn to look beautiful. However, you don't have an excess of free time and a beautiful lush lawn takes a lot of lawn care. There's the planting, the weeding, the mowing, and of course the frequent watering. However, when all of these elements are put into practice, the result is a verdant, green yard, thick hedges and gorgeous flower gardens.

Fortunately, there are many ways and options available to lighten the load of yard care that were not available in years gone by. Today, there are seeders for spreading the grass seeds, an assortment of tools to make planting easier and many choices in sprinkler systems and irrigation systems so that dragging out the water hose each day is no longer necessary. Advanced Irrigation, serving the Minneapolis MN metro, is able to take care of all these duties and more.

Of course, with any lawn and garden, especially in Minneapolis, the biggest part of the job is maintenance - especially the weeding and the watering! So, if you are looking for some ways to save time - and often a bit of money - here are 6 ways you can reduce your time watering yet still have a gorgeous green lawn.

1. Keep your grass reasonably tall as this will help reduce evaporation. The taller grass protects the soil. You should also talk to the agricultural department for your area and find out what grass does best in your region. Oftentimes, having green grass is as simple as having the right kind planted. For example, Bermuda grass does great in regions where there is minimal water while Bluegrass requires more watering.
2. Improve your soil by using organic material and compost. Spread the compost on your lawn then work it into the soil using a top spreader. Using organic materials helps the soil to retain moisture longer and the aeration of working the soil promotes root growth. When your improved soil is combined with infrequent, deep watering the roots will be able to the grow stronger ad can take the soil's moisture to a deeper level.
3. Choose fertilizers that will promote healthy grass while keep bugs and pest away. However, keep in mind that you can reduce the amount of water needed by not over-fertilizing. The best thing you can do, is to keep chemicals away from your lawn!
4. Invest in an irrigation system with a timer. There are many irrigation systems available today. From large systems that have an assortment of valves, sprinklers and water lines to simple ones that can be installed by the homeowner. However, when selecting an irrigation system with a timer, be sure that the timer is equipped with a sensor that will shut down the irrigation system after it begins to rain.
5. Make sure that your lawn mower blades are sharp. Not only will sharp blades make it easier to cut your grass, but dull blades will also expose your grass more and lead to more rapid evaporation.
6. Pay attention to the weather reports. During drought conditions it is okay to let your lawn go dormant. This will not damage a healthy lawn.

Many websites provide additional information on the topic of irrigation and lawn care. One such site worth visiting is http://www.advancedirrigationmn.com.

Article independently authored by Janet M. Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Advanced Irrigation. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Commercial gallery highlights Advanced Irrigation’s work

Advanced Irrigation is well known in and around the Twin Cities MN metro for our designing and installations of residential sprinkler systems and irrigation systems, but we also design and install commercial sprinkler systems and irrigation systems.

We recently completed two big commercial projects – one sprinkler system and one irrigation system – and the images are now posted on the Commercial Project Gallery at www.AdvancedIrrrigationMN.com!

For your irrigation systems, sprinkler systems and lawn care needs contact Advanced Irrigation today at 612.599.8675 or visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com and get a FREE ESTIMATE!

Lawn Irrigation and Fertilizing - Proper Yard Maintenance for a Weed Free and Insect Free Property

Every individual has different interests and hobbies. More often than naught, lawn and property maintenance is not considered one of them. Deemed a chore rather than a relaxing past time, mowing grass, raking leaves and pulling weeds are generally a hassle. Of course, winter can give a welcomed respite from much of the physical labor, but only to be replaced by shoveling snow for many of the northern climates. Regardless of this time of year, it is necessary to begin thinking of and planning for the spring. A little preparation now will yield benefits for the rest of the year.

Although it may be cold outside, now is the time to begin thinking of spring time and ready the lawn with a pre-emergent fertilizer, which is commonly called a weed-and-feed fertilizer. Different species of grass will require specific types of fertilizer. There are many, however, that will treat a broad variety of grasses. Weeds are not the only burden to deal when maintaining a property.

Insects and other pests is also a never ending nuisance. An additional insect control application will also need to be applied. It is important to note that some of the chemical pesticides, as well as herbicides, can be absorbed into the vegetation and drinking water from a well source. For this reason it is important to exercise caution when applying these solutions in and near herb and vegetable gardens which will be used for food.

With all of these concerns, none is as important as proper watering, a functional sprinkler system or irrigation system. A home owner can spend thousands of dollars on landscaping, grass and fertilizers every year without the desired results. Even though the most important key aspect of lawn maintenance is irrigation, one would be surprised at how little many home owners recognize this fact.

Over-watering is just as bad as starving the lawn. Although irrigation is not an exact science there are definitely wrong ways of doing things. Trial and error will likely be an expensive method of dealing with pests and problem areas of the lawn. A better alternative is to hire an experienced and established sprinkler company to handle the monthly lawn maintenance.

Advanced Irrigation, serving the Minneapolis MN metro, provides an abundant array of other services, such as fertilizing, landscape lighting and full landscaping in addition to installing a sprinkler system and fine tuning it. It is important for the home owner to note that achieving the picture perfect lawn will always take several months once the decision has been made to hire an irrigation specialist. The first improvement which should be noticed within just a few weeks of proper fertilizing is that the grass should be a rich and healthy green color. If after a month of fertilizing and proper watering does not yield any positive improvements, questions need to be asked. There may be an underlying problem which has not before been noticed.

Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Advanced Irrigation. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Advanced Irrigation tackles commercial sprinkler system and irrigation system projects

(ALBERTVILLE, Minn.) – Advanced Irrigation Inc., serving the Twin Cities, Minn. region with sprinkler systems, irrigation systems and lawn care, is proud to offer commercial project work.

“We’re well known for our residential projects,” said owner Chris Swanson. “However, we offer the same great service to our commercial customers. It doesn’t matter if it’s a small, backyard sprinkler system installation or a large, football field sprinkler system, we do it all.”

Commercial installations completed recently by Advanced Irrigation include a sprinkler system at an international school in Eden Prairie, Minn. and an irrigation system project in Quarry Pointe Park of Apple Valley, Minn.

Advanced Irrigation Inc. has been part of the “Green Industry” for over 12 years. The business has over the years tackled many problems in partnership with the homeowners.

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Release written by WebDrafter.com, Inc. For more information about Joe Stennes or Advanced Irrigation, Inc., visit www.AdvancedIrrigationMN.com or contact Joe Stennes at 612.599.8675.

7 Questions You Should Ask About Watering Your Lawn

When it come to taking care of your lawn, there are many factors to be considered. After all, you need to make sure that you choose the right type of grass for your region, to use fertilizers that are healthy for the grass as well as safe for the environment and to keep the blade of your lawn mower sharp and set to the right height. These are just a few of the many jobs that are a part of having a beautiful green lawn.

Of course, once you get your lawn planted and looking beautiful, you have to be sure to water it as often as necessary. So how can you determine the amount of water necessary? There are many options from watering hoses to irrigation systems that can keep your lawn the verdant green that you desire. Here are some common questions regarding watering your lawn.

1. When is the best time to water the lawn? As a general rule, early morning is best.
2. How much and how often should the lawn be watered? Depending on the type of soil you have and the type of grass seed planted this can vary. Many experts say an inch per week. However, as every locale gets a different amount of rain and experience its own unique evaporation and transpiration the amount of water needed can vary
3. Is it necessary to buy a timer? No, but it does make it easier to maintain that your lawn gets watered on a regular basis. You can choose from high-tech or low devices or simply have an irrigation system installed then set the timer accordingly.
4. Is every sprinkler the same? No. Besides the sprinklers that come as part of an irrigation system, you will find many types of sprinkler systems that each have their own special characteristics and features.
5. Are there any alternatives to watering using an irrigation system or sprinkler? Yes. You can also use wetting agents which are either liquids or granular compounds designed to retain water.
6. Is there alternative to the "traditional" lawn that requires less watering? Yes. Some homeowners opt for xeriscaping which is a Greek term meaning "dry scene". It is especially popular in regions of the southwest where landscaping is done by using plants and grasses that are drought tolerant. However, be sure to test a small area of your lawn to see what type of wetting agent is best for your region.
7. What about a yard that slope? What is the best way to water it? Depending on the angle, this can be a special challenge; however, a sprinkler set on a timer is typically the best method. To get even saturation, divide your slope into sections then set the irrigation system to run in multiple cycles at shorter intervals.

Learn more about irrigation and sprinkler systems by visiting Advanced Irrigation of Minnesota. Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Advanced Irrigation. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Tree Removal and Home Lawn Maintenance...

Ignoring Trees, Trimming and Overhanging Limbs Can be Costly

As the end of autumn arrives and the frigid temperatures of winter take hold, manicuring and prepping the lawn or irrigation system is usually the last thought on the minds of home owners. Oddly enough, however, this is the perfect time to examine the property and plan for the winter and spring. Other services which may be available are tree and limb removal, snow removal and even landscape design. Many irrigation and landscaping design companies may offer special pricing in order to drive business during the "off" season.

There are several steps to take in order to winterize the home and landscaping. Close attention to overhanging branches and dead or rotting trees should be removed. Every year the heavy snows and ice can place tremendous stress on trees and limbs causing them to fall without warning. The weight of the snow will easily exceed two hundred pounds and can cause trees and limbs to snap without warning.

Damaged roofing or downed power lines are the most common instances of these occurrences, but people are often injured as well. While most home owners may have a basic step ladder, it is not recommended for most home owners to attempt to remove tree limbs themselves. Larger branches or those limbs which are higher than 8 feet are best left to a professional and experience tree removal service, such as Advanced Irrigation, Inc. These landscaping professionals will have the proper safety equipment which many home owners do not own.

Another relatively monotonous chore is the removal of snow from the lawn and driveway. Snow throwers can make quick work of removing snow, but can be cumbersome to maneuver. An excellent alternative to injuring ones back is to contract with a local service provider to remove the snow as needed. It is important to keep the driveway clear and accessible for the possibility of any emergency response vehicle. Again, many irrigation or sprinkler service companies will offer additional services other than just irrigation.

Having a newly designed landscape can also be a wise project to undertake during the winter months. There are several benefits to the home owner when hiring an irrigation and landscape designer for the winter. Most home owners will not be competing for the landscaper's time thereby allowing the landscaper to devote as much attention as possible to the lawn and landscape project.

Many home owners will either be too preoccupied with work or the holidays gathering of friends and family, but neglecting some of the tasks above and more can be a very expensive mistake. It is important to consult with irrigation and landscaping company soon in order to get the desired results.

For a free lawn care & underground sprinkler system quote, visit Advanced Irrigation, Inc. of MN. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Advanced Irrigation. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Year Round Lawn Care and Maintenance

Everyone loves a beautiful yard. You know the type. Those yards that have well maintained shrubbery, thick green grass and well tended flower gardens resplendent in all their color. Of course, that takes work, and not just during the warm month either! No matter where you live, taking care of your yard is a must. These chores can include everything from spreading mulch and fertilizer to weeding and cutting grass each week; but regardless of the season, efficient lawn care and maintenance are a part of life. Each season brings different jobs, all of which are vital to a beautiful yard.

Springtime lawn care and maintenance can vary depending on where you live; however, there are some things that remain the same whether you live in a warm or cool. These standard spring jobs include:

• Applying helpful compost tea (a mixture of compost, water and molasses that is sprayed on your lawn and plants)
• Mowing with low blade
• Pulling weeds by hand or spot spraying
• Dethatching and aerating (You can either rent the equipment and do it yourself or hire a professional like Advanced Irrigation, Inc. to do it for you)
• Applying helpful nematodes (micro-organisms in the soil that can be either useful or damaging), as needed, for grub control

With summer's heat comes everyone's favorite lawn care and maintenance job-mowing the lawn! However, additional summer jobs include monitoring how often and how much you water, observing the insects (some good, some bad) population, conscientious weed control, watching for lawn disease, and adding a calcium rich fertilizer.

As summer becomes fall, your lawn care and maintenance needs change. And, while weekly mowing may not be a part of your routine, there are other jobs that are equally important. The region of the country in which you live can dictate some of the specifics but basic jobs that should be on your fall "To Do" list are:

• Applying another round of compost tea-think of it as putting your lawn to bed
• Lowering the blades of your lawn mower as there is often a great deal of grass growth
• Removing any leaves and debris, followed by the application of a layer of compost to enrich your soil's components over the winter

About the time you are ready to relax and take break from lawn care and maintenance, winter arrives. Thankfully, there are just a few basic things for you to take care of:

• If you live in a cool region, be sure not to leave heavy items on the ground for indefinite amounts of time as this can damage the grass.
• For warm weather residents, it is necessary to continue watering, so your spring will have the perky freshness everyone can't wait to enjoy.

If you are eager to have a yard that the whole neighborhood is talking about, year round lawn care is a must. Take some time to make your yard the envy of all who see it

Contact Advanced Irrigation of Minnesota for a free lawn care and underground sprinkler system estimate!

Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Advanced Irrigation. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.