FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Landscape and Lawn Care Services Why should I use a professional landscape care service? Creating and maintaining a lush, healthy landscape takes time, effort and knowledge. Weather, weeds, insects and diseases all can degrade a landscape if not recognized early and dealt with effectively. When you compare the cost of doing it yourself, a professional can save you time, money and frustration. How often should I water? You should always check with your local water management district first, but as a general rule, 3/4 inch to 1 inch of water, 2 times per week is recommended for most landscapes. During the winter months, 3/4 inch to 1 inch of water once every 7 to 10 days is adequate. Any rainfall that occurs between watering should be counted towards your plan. If you have questions about your watering practices, ask our experts or schedule a free landscape inspection. 813 373-5637   How do phosphorous-free fertilizers help protect our water? Phosphorous is an essential nutrient that feeds weeds and algae. An over abundance of phosphorous in freshwater (along with nitrogen) causes weeds and algae to grow out of control. This creates a nuisance for recreational activities and can also kill fish and alter the growth patterns of other aquatic life. Reducing phosphorous that could end up in freshwater sources helps maintain nature’s balance and keeps our water clean.   What is aeration and why is it good for my lawn? Aeration removes plugs of soil (about the size of your thumb) from your lawn and allows oxygen, water and nutrients to flow freely into the root zone. Aeration reduces water runoff by opening up the soil to receive the water downward rather than letting it puddle onto sidewalks and driveways. What can I do about all these weeds in my lawn? Create a thick, healthy lawn through proper fertilization, mowing and watering practices. A healthy, well-maintained lawn keeps weeds from establishing and growing to full potential. The professionals at A-1 Landscape will design a customized program that will create the thickest and healthiest lawn for your landscape. When necessary, we will use targeted treatments to help remove weeds.

What type of grass is best for my lawn? Some grasses do better in full sun than shade and vice versa. Check our chart below for details on specific grasses: Grass Type Mowing Height Best Location Floratam (St. Augustine grass) 3.5 to 4 inches Full sun areas Seville (St. Augustine grass) 2.5 to 3 inches Moderately shaded areas Bitter blue (St. Augustine grass) 3 to 3.5 inches Slightly shaded areas Bahiagrass 3.5 to 4 inches Full sun areas Bermuda grass 1 to 1.25 inches Full sun areas Centipede grass 1 to 2 inches Full sun to partially shaded areas Zoysia grass 1 to 2 inches Full sun to moderately shaded areas Tall Fescue 1.5 to 3 inches Full sun to moderately shaded areas What’s the best way to keep the grass around trees and shrubs evenly cut? You should consider creating a grassless border around them with mulch instead of trimming. The mulch barrier means less stress due to shade, plus it gives you easier access with the mower.