Lawn spraying is a technique that can be used to treat a number of problems with your lawn. The three keys to success in using this approach is to know what your objective is, deciding on the right equipment, and using that equipment properly. Let’s look at each key step in more detail.
What problem are you trying to fix?
The big reasons for spraying your lawn is to kill bugs or kill weeds. Both of these are great reasons to be spraying, but you need to approach each reason in the right way.
For treatment of bug infestations, you not only want to kill the infestation, but make sure that it can’t come back. A broad spectrum insecticide will cover a wide variety of bugs. Do an inspection of your yard to understand what bugs you are trying to kill, this will guide you in your insecticide selection.
For treatment of weeds, there are usually a few clumps of the undesirable plant or flower, usually in a localized area. If you can pin down the specific plants you want to get rid of, a targeted weed killer can usually do the job.
Pick the right equipment
For small broadcast sprays, a simple hose mounted attachment for your garden hose is a great start. You can also look at a compressed air sprayer which is pump operated. As pressure drops, pull the plunger up and push down a few times to raise the pressure to continue your spraying job.
For large broadcast spraying, motorized power sprayers are available that can run from an electric source and extension cord. There are also self contained units that fit into a backpack. Once you know the area that needs to be sprayed, finding a sprayer to meet your needs is relatively easy.
How best to use your sprayer
You have determined the problem, picked your sprayer, so now it is time to get moving and do some spraying. Here are some suggestions to help you get the job done!
For weed control, aim for an area about 18 inches above the tops of the weeds being treated. This ensures that you will treat the ground around the weeds as well as the weeds themselves, and limits potential gaps. Use a broad sweeping motion for maximum coverage.
For insect control, take out the mound or infestation first, then work your way around the target to create a barrier for any survivors. Wait for a couple of minutes after the first application to ensure you have accomplished your primary objective, then follow up wherever you see some stragglers.
Lawn spraying does not need to be a hidden secret. With the pull behind yard sprayer and an understanding of what needs to be sprayed, the job can be done quickly and cheaply, leaving you with a beautiful yard at low cost.