Browse Our Frequently Asked Questions
With over 30 years of shared knowledge, the team at OK Valley Landscaping and Maintenance has seen it all! Please read through the most common questions we get asked, and if you have another question regarding design or care of your green spaces, give us a call. Estimates are free, and we are more than happy to meet with you and provide the lawncare you need.
How often should I be watering my lawn, and when?
When you see a lawn that is a uniform green colour through the summer months, you’ll most likely find it has an efficient, automated watering system. However, even with automated systems there are some “water me” signs that will help you to determine when to water your turf.
If footprints remain in the turf or disappear slowly, your lawn needs water.
Start by watering in the early morning or evening, and always in accordance with your local bylaws!
If you are still not sure how your lawn is doing, here is another trick: soil taken from a 3” depth under your lawn should hold together under pressure (if the ball is somewhat crumbly, barely holds together under pressure, then it is time to water).
How long should I be watering?
1” of water will moisten 6” of soil. Place a water cup in your sprinkler area and determine the time needed to fill it up to 1”. This is the water required every 7 days. In the summer heat, every 3-4 days may be needed.
My lawn is well watered, but it still doesn't look the best. What am I doing wrong?
When mowing, sharpen your mower blades regularly. A dull blade will leave grass tips looking off-colour – the tips have been torn, not cut. Call us and we are happy to visit with you and provide our professional recommendations.
What is ‘Top Dressing?’
Top dressing is the application of fine particles of organic material over the surface of turfgrass. For example, a thin layer of fine mulch evenly applied over the turfgrass settles down into the thatch. The use of mulches also assists in weed suppression, water conservation, and improving the nutrient content of the soil. Both inorganic and organic mulches are available.
When properly applied, you will benefit from water conservation, moderation of root temperatures, enhanced soil quality, and fewer weeds.
Do I need core aeration?
Core aeration is a method of aerating your lawn using structured hole punching and core removal. Cores of soil are punched 3/4″ diameter and 2 – 2 ½” deep and spaced less than 5″ apart. This aeration increases the infiltration and efficiency of water, air and nutrients. We highly recommend it for our dry Okanagan climate, and where clay soil exists, as it helps to break up thatch buildup.
When should I be fertilizing my lawn?
A healthy lawn needs to be fed at least three times a year. If you have no weeds, all you need is liquid fertilizer. For lawns with weed patches, herbicide is used as a tool in the fertilization process to control the weeds.
What is meant by a Xeriscape?
Xeriscape landscaping, often called xeriscaping, is replacing sod lawns with alternative products that promotes little to no need for an irrigation system. In the Okanagan, where our summers are hot and there may be limitations on water, you can have a beautiful yard that won’t dry up during the hottest months of the year. With smart irrigation systems that conserve water, stones, flagstone walkways, and artificial turf, xeriscaping is a great alternative to sod. Our regularly scheduled maintenance services can keep weeds out of your planted areas and keep them looking tended and healthy.
When does my irrigation system require servicing?
Your in-ground irrigation system will need both a spring start up and fall shut down servicing. At these times, the heads and pipes are checked and replaced or repaired as needed. These inexpensive visits will keep your system working trouble-free all summer long and keep your green spaces healthy and vibrant. Don’t forget your irrigation system needs to be prepared for winter before freezing temperatures are on their way!