Maintain lawns.

Maintenance could include

  • selecting required PPE for the task (required)
  • determining the best time of year to fertilize turfgrass
  • differentiating between the cultural requirements of cool- and warm-season grasses
  • interpreting a soil sample analysis to determine the best fertilization practices
  • determining how much fertilizer is needed to give the right amount of nitrogen to a specified area
  • adjusting the pH of turfgrass soils
  • spreading fertilizer, using a drop spreader or a rotary spreader
  • determining the best mowing height for a species of turfgrass
  • executing good mowing practices
  • removing excess clippings as necessary
  • removing thatch by hand or with a thatching machine
  • aerating turfgrass soil
  • overseeding turfgrass
  • repairing worn areas in turfgrass.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • What are cool-season turfgrasses? What are warm-season turfgrasses?
  • What is the transition zone?
  • What criteria determines the best type of turfgrass to plant in an area?
  • What does a soil test reveal and how is this information beneficial to a landscaper?