The Potting Shed: Choosing a quality lawn care provider

Traveling U.S. 70 daily to work proves to me that lawn maintenance has become a major business in our recessed economy.

Every other vehicle I pass is pulling a trailer loaded with lawn care equipment. It seems that most families in our area have opted out of this time honored Saturday morning pastime.

For the elderly, those with allergies and families with little spare time, quality lawn care has become an added monthly expense. With our busy schedules, many families must hire professionals to handle this time consuming chore.

Choosing a company to mow and trim should involve research and careful selection. Knowing a company's professional affiliations has become as important as seeking out word of mouth testimonials for finding reputable, affordable lawn maintenance companies.

To assure knowledgeable and dependable service, first make sure that any company you deal with is a member of the Professional Lawn Care Association of America, or a comparable state organization. This is your assurance that your chosen provider will follow established standards for use of pesticides, care of lawn and shrubberies, landscaping knowledge and proper business standards.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, and make sure you compare services offered by several contractors before making your selection. Don't go by price alone; learn what makes each operator's services superior to others. If you are going to pay the average fee being asked for lawn care, you should get quality lawn services for your money.

A quality landscaper will require a soil sample before bidding on the upkeep of your property. He should know your need for fertilizers or pH adjustments before making a quote. He should physically see and measure your property, not just talk to you over the telephone.

When choosing a contractor, ask for a list of the services to be included in the monthly or yearly price - weed and pest control, seeding, trimming, fertilizing, clipping and brush removal. Make sure the services you want are being offered and that they are put in writing.

Great lawns require proper care. Low cost services may also mean low quality services.

Bob Johnson is a Lenoir County Master Gardener