Yard Maintenance

Prepared by: L. Robert Barber, & Ilene Iriarte

For: Guam Cooperative Extension Service & Guam

Department of AgricultureFunding provided by:

United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, Western Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education,

Administration for Native Americans,, & Sanctuary Incorporated

How Much Should You Charge?

A Lawn Maintenance Example• Depends on:

– What is your goal for your hourly wage?– Rule of thumb add $1 an hour for

equipment maintenance – Needed Supplies– Business Costs:

• Taxes (Also License)

– How long will the job take

How Much Should You Charge?

A Lawn Maintenance Example• Marketing Tactic:

– In order to obtain a realistic estimate of time and resources, after first time at a very low rate:• Give you a chance to demonstrate the

quality of your service• Lets you know exactly what is involved

Lawn Care

• Type of grass influences care:– As does soil type, light availability,

temperature, watering– Maintenance requirements

• Watering Requirements:– Lawn sprinklers usually need to be set

for 1-2 hours at each spot to apply 1 inch of water• 1 inch of water soaks soil 6-8 inches in depth

Watering

• Deep soakings help develop deep roots– Eventually plants will require less

watering

• Shallow watering benefits weeds• Do not over water

– Soils can only absorb so much– Can harm plants & promote diseases

• Early morning watering is best• Water slowly to avoid runoff

Mowing

• Correct height depends on type of grass:– If cut too low grass can die, or thin out

• Frequency of mowing depends on type of grass, maintenance program, & weather

• Keep mower blade sharp & clean– Dull blades give grass an uneven look

• Do not mow grass when wet– Can clog mower

• Clippings should be left on lawn – Returns nutrients to the soil

Bush cutting

• Often damages desired plants • Physically harms plants:

– Bush cutter disease (careless cuts that girdle tree) kills huge numbers of trees on Guam.

Bush cutting Damage Picture

Mulching

• Reduces yard maintenance – Weeding, watering, mowing

• Materials can be organic or inorganic– Organic mulch acts as a slow release

fertilizer & can improve soil structure

• Adds beauty to yard• For best results apply mulch 2-4

inches deep

Breadfruit that is mulched with palm leaves

Compost

• Controlling the decomposition of organic material such as:– Yard material, paper, kitchen scraps,

wood• Creates a slow release organic

fertilizer & contributes to the beneficial organisms in the soil

• Cost effective• Prevents green waste from being

thrown in the landfill

Summary

• For more information please call your local Cooperative Extension

Service at 735-2080