For example, keeping your yard free of weeds and such can be daunting but by following some simple lawn care tips you can keep them in check. Last year for example my lawn was full of dandy lions and all sorts of weeds. I went to our local lawn and garden center and got setup on a weed and feed regimen. By following the simple process of fertilizing and applying weed and seed at the right times, my weeds this year are almost gone completely.

One of the big things I found out was that I was applying the pre-emergent for our dandy lions at the wrong time of day. The best time to apply pre-emergent is in the early morning when there is still dew on the grass. I was applying it before a rain thinking the water would help it dissolved into the soil. What I didn’t realize is that pre-emergent works by attaching itself to the leaves of the plants themselves and dissolving into the plant itself. By applying in the morning when there is still dew on the leaves, the pre-emergent attaches to the leaves and absorbs into the plant itself. My process was just washing all the application away and basically doing nothing.

Now what about those wooden privacy fences and decks? I noticed that around our hot tub and back fence area our privacy fence was getting covered with green mildew. Last year I simply power washed the fence and the mold disappeared for a week or so but returned. What I didn’t realize is that even though it looked nice and clean, the mold wasn’t actually killed by using pressure and water.

You actually don’t need a pressure washer at all to get rid of the mildew on fences and wood work. A simple mixture of bleach and water does a wonderful job! Just mix 1 part bleach to about three parts water. For example I have a 2 gallon sprayer (that I use for pesticides) and add about a half gallon of bleach and fill the rest up with water. Simply spray this on the fence and let sit for a few days before washing. The bleach will kill the mildew and keep it from returning; at least for the rest of the year.

Whether you’re trying to keep weeds down in your yard or mildew off your fences, following a few simple tips can help keep them from getting out of hand. Most local home stores provide classes on how to keep yards free of weeds and you can rent a power washer from your local equipment rental shop. If you decide you want to purchase your own washing equipment or learn more about pressure washing, be sure to check out some pressure washer reviews before spending your hard earned money.

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Push-Pull Tool

Push-pull hand weeders use a serrated semi-sharp blade to sift through dirt and rock. The tool is run through the ground, allowing dirt to pass through the opening. The blade intercepts the weeds and removes them. The back and forth motion allows for dual-action removal of the weeds, while the slim blade cuts through the ground with ease. For individuals adverse to bending down, consider getting a push-pull tool with a longer handle to allow for upright use of the tool. A side guard on the tool allows you to get in close around your plants and avoid damage.

Basic Hand Weeder

Your standard hand weeder consists of a two pronged metal bar attached to a durable handle. The tool works by gripping the base of the weed and prying it up and out. The prong is inserted into the ground at the base of the weed. A prying motion is used to lift the plant up, root and all. This is a simple tool with no moving parts and can withstand many years of regular use.

Weed Hound

This is a very specific weed tool made by Hound Dog. It has a long handle and requires no bending down to operate. When you have sought out a weed, simply place the pronged tip into the ground at the center of the weed. Then twist the knob at the top of the tool to dig out a dirt plug with the weed inside. The weed has now been effectively removed. The Weed Hound has many good reviews for its quality.

Weeds removal is just one of the many outdoor responsibilities that we must do. Taking care of the yard becomes so much easier when you have helpful tips. Patton’s website Yardsurfer has a variety of helpful guides.

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