Frequently Asked Questions

What is Integrated Pest Management, or IPM?

An IPM program is one designed to create a healthy lawn with sufficient plant strength and density to survive weed, insect and disease attacks with minimum pesticide use. An IPM program must consider your lawn’s specific needs and overall condition. An IPM program requires the support of proper cultural practices, including:

  • Proper mowing
  • Regular watering at a rate that ensures retained moisture levels throughout the root zone
  • Core aeration designed to promote root development through reduced soil compaction, improve nutrient and moisture absorption, and discourage thatch development
  • Programmed seeding or sodding to enhance lawn density and to improve appearance by controlling undesirable grasses and weeds
  • Fertilization to provide essential nutrients that may be deficient in your lawn
  • The application of pH balancing treatments (lime or sulfur) to achieve proper soil acidity levels and improved nutrient absorption
  • Regular inspections of lawn areas for early detection of pest presence

Simply put, IPM combines the best mix of cultural techniques with the discreet use of chemical products to manage pests responsibly. Your cooperation in mowing, watering and regular inspections (for early detection) between lawn care visits is important to the success of the IPM care of your property.

What Do the Terms “Natural” and “Organic” Mean with Regard to Lawn Care Products?

There are no universally accepted definitions, but possible definitions of these terms are:

  • Natural – A product derived from animal/biological, mineral or plant sources, in a form substantially as it occurs in nature. The materials may be altered or manipulated to put them in a physical form that allows them to be efficiently used in the application process by the homeowner or lawn care professional.
  • Organic – Any substance containing the element carbon is, by technical definition, organic. Both naturally occurring and man-made products may be organic. The common misconception that natural and organic have the same meaning may cause the non-technical consumer to believe that a man-made organic material is natural when it is not.
  • Natural-Based – Generally used to describe a mixture of materials, some of which may be properly described as natural. The portion that is natural is frequently undefined. The other portion may be man-made pesticides or fertilizers.
  • Organic-Based – Generally used to describe a mixture of materials, some of which are organic. The portion of the product that is both organic and natural is frequently undefined. The other portion may be man-made pesticides or fertilizers. It is important to understand that “natural” or “organic” products are not free from risk.