[Image: lawn]Consumer Reports magazine released its second annual lawn care poll in the May issue. Results showed 43% of adults planned to spend more time in their yards this summer compared to last year. Only 5% plan on less. About 35% vow to put more effort into yard maintenance this year compared to last. Of that 35%, 59% say the extra effort is for entertaining guests and 33% just want their landscapes to look better.
Peter Sawchuk, project leader at CU, says average homeowners should be prepared to dedicate an average of 6½ hours per week to keep up a good yard. Knowing the best management practices (BMPs) will ensure a good payoff for this effort.
A figure of 36% of homeowners surveyed planned to use professional lawn care services for all or some of the work (22% maintenance, 18% fertilizing, 17% tree and shrub care and 17% seasonal yard clean up).
Other poll findings include:
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75% of those who mow are males
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74% of renters must provide for mowing
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52% actively control yard pests
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47% try to recycle rainwater for irrigation
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40% use organic pest control
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32% never change the mower’s air filter
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27% never sharpen the mower blades
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23% have been injured while using riding equipment.
For the AgCenter’s best management practices, see Publication 2940 Louisiana Lawns BMPs.