Lawn Care Strategies for Commercial Properties
- Landtech Scenery
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
When it comes to first impressions, your commercial property's lawn speaks volumes. A well-maintained landscape doesn’t just enhance curb appeal—it communicates professionalism, attention to detail, and pride in your business. Whether you're managing a corporate office park, retail space, or a multi-family complex, proper lawn care is essential.
Here are some tried-and-true lawn care strategies for commercial properties that deliver year-round results.
1. Start with a Lawn Assessment
Before diving into a maintenance plan, assess your current lawn conditions:
What type of grass is growing?
Are there signs of disease, pests, or drought stress?
How compact is the soil?
Are there high-traffic areas needing reinforcement?
A professional evaluation helps create a tailored care plan—because no two commercial landscapes are exactly alike.
2. Develop a Year-Round Lawn Maintenance Plan
Consistency is key. Your plan should include:
Spring: Aeration, fertilization, weed control, overseeding.
Summer: Mowing, irrigation monitoring, pest/disease management.
Fall: Leaf removal, overseeding, winterizing treatments.
Winter: Snow removal planning, dormant pruning (if applicable).
Keeping a schedule ensures proactive care and reduces costly surprises.
3. Mowing: Frequency and Height Matter
For commercial properties, grass should be cut regularly, and never more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. Mowing too short can stress turf and lead to weed invasion.
Recommended mowing height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches (varies by grass type)
Weekly mowing is standard in growing seasons
Sharp blades prevent tearing and browning
Pro tip: Alternate mowing patterns to prevent soil compaction and ruts.
4. Fertilization and Soil Health
A healthy lawn starts below the surface. Fertilizer gives your turf the nutrients it needs, but timing and type matter.
Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring and fall
Soil testing helps customize fertilizer formulas
Include micronutrients like iron and magnesium for turf color and health
Also, consider organic fertilization programs for eco-conscious clients.
5. Smart Irrigation Management
Overwatering is wasteful and harmful. Modern commercial irrigation systems can save water and money.
Install smart controllers that adjust watering based on weather and soil moisture
Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation
Regularly check for leaks, clogs, or broken sprinkler heads
Drought-tolerant practices are becoming essential in many regions.
6. Weed and Pest Control
Weeds not only look bad—they compete for nutrients and water. Preventative care includes:
Pre-emergent herbicides in early spring
Post-emergent treatments as needed
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to target harmful insects while protecting pollinators
Monitor turf closely and act quickly when issues arise.
7. Aeration and Overseeding
Compacted soil suffocates roots. Aeration, usually done in spring or fall, allows oxygen, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper. Combine with overseeding to fill bare spots and improve turf density.
Use core aeration for best results
Overseed with a blend suitable for your region and traffic levels
This is especially important for high-traffic commercial lawns.
8. Create a Clean Edge
Crisp, clean edges around walkways, parking lots, and beds instantly elevate your landscape. Regular edging and trimming gives the lawn a finished, professional appearance.
9. Consider Eco-Friendly Lawn Alternatives
For clients interested in sustainability, suggest:
Clover or fescue mixes for low-maintenance lawns
Artificial turf in areas where live grass struggles
Rain gardens or xeriscaping to reduce irrigation needs
These options can also lower long-term maintenance costs.
10. Work with a Professional Commercial Lawn Care Partner
Managing a large property is no small task. A qualified commercial landscaping team brings:
Regional expertise
Licensed herbicide/pesticide application
Efficient crews and professional equipment
Routine reporting and proactive service
Originally published at: The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Landscape Maintenance
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