Landscape

July 16 2025

Fun Fact of the Day – What is That Fresh Cut Grass Smell?

That Fresh-Cut Grass Smell Is Actually a Plant Distress Call!

Ever taken a deep breath after mowing your lawn and thought, “Ahh… that fresh-cut grass smell is so nice!”? You’re not alone—but here’s the twist: what you’re enjoying is actually a plant’s version of a scream.

When grass is cut, it releases a group of organic compounds called Green Leaf Volatiles (GLVs). These airborne molecules are responsible for that signature sweet, green scent we associate with summer lawns and hayfields. But they aren’t just pleasant-smelling byproducts—they serve a very specific purpose in nature.

Diagram of Green Leaf Volatiles being released from a leaf

GLVs are part of a plant’s natural defense system

Think of them as botanical 911 calls. When a lawnmower (or a grazing animal) slices through grass blades, the damaged cells release GLVs as a distress signal. These compounds have multiple fascinating functions:

Warning Other Plants: Neighboring grass and plants can “smell” the GLVs and ramp up their chemical defenses, becoming more resistant to damage or disease. It’s a bit like shouting, “Heads up, danger’s coming!”

Calling in Reinforcements: Even cooler? These volatiles can attract beneficial insects like parasitoid wasps or ladybugs—tiny allies that prey on plant-eating pests. It’s nature’s version of calling in the cavalry.

Healing Help: GLVs can also help the plant itself by slowing down microbial growth at the wound site and activating internal healing responses.

So, the next time you breathe in that fresh, nostalgic scent after mowing, remember: you’re not just smelling summer—you’re eavesdropping on a fascinating conversation between plants and their ecosystem.

Plants may be rooted in place, but they’re not silent. They just speak in chemistry.

502-909-4257

Freshly cut grass with a family out of focus in the background

July 14 2025

Eco-Friendly Mowing Services in Louisville, KY

ntelligencia Landscape

Our eco-friendly mowing services in Louisville are designed to keep your yard looking immaculate throughout the year. A well-maintained lawn increases the beauty and value of your home. We offer reliable and professional lawn care for homeowners throughout the Louisville area.

Regular Mowing and Lawn Maintenance: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly mowing based on your lawn’s needs.
Edging and Trimming: We provide crisp edging along sidewalks, driveways, flower beds, and fences to maintain a polished look.
Customized Lawn Care: Tailored services that fit your lawn’s specific needs, including fertilization, aeration, and seasonal clean-ups.

Eco-Friendly Commercial Mowing Services in Louisville

A pristine lawn reflects well on your business. At the Fransen Group, we provide professional mowing and lawn maintenance services to businesses throughout Louisville, KY, ensuring your property always looks professional and inviting. Our eco-friendly commercial lawn care services are perfect for offices, retail centers, industrial parks, and more.

Consistent Lawn Maintenance: Weekly or bi-weekly service to ensure your commercial property is always looking its best.
Landscaping Services: We also offer additional landscaping services to complement your lawn care, including planting, trimming, and seasonal maintenance.
Flexible Scheduling: We work around your business hours to minimize disruption to your daily operations.

Why Choose the Fransen Group for Mowing Services in Louisville, KY?

Experienced & Professional Lawn Care Experts

Our team at the Fransen Group consists of trained professionals who use the best tools and equipment to ensure your lawn is mowed to perfection every time. We treat every lawn as if it were our own.

Affordable & Transparent Pricing

We offer competitive pricing on all our services without sacrificing quality. Our upfront, no-obligation estimates allow you to budget for your lawn care needs with confidence.

Eco-Friendly Lawn Care

We use eco-friendly practices to reduce our impact on the environment. Our team utilizes equipment that is both efficient and environmentally conscious.

On-Time & Reliable Service

We understand that your time is valuable. We pride ourselves on providing reliable, punctual service and ensuring that every job is completed as scheduled.

Service Areas in Louisville, KY

We are proud to serve homes and businesses across Louisville, KY, including the following neighborhoods:

Downtown Louisville
Highlands
St. Matthews
Indian Hills
Rolling Fields
Glenview
Mockingbird Valley
Riverwood
Prospect
Norton Commons
Hurstbourne
Lake Forest
Middletown
Anchorage
Crestwood
Peewee Valley
Crescent Hill
East End Louisville
Oldham County
And more!

If your area is not listed, don’t hesitate to contact us – we may still serve your location!

Get a Free Mowing Quote in Louisville, KY

Ready to transform your lawn? Whether you need residential or commercial mowing services in Louisville, KY, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover why we’re the preferred lawn care provider in Louisville.

502-909-4257

“The Fransen Group transformed our lawn into the envy of the neighborhood. Their attention to detail and professionalism are unmatched.”

– John D., Residential Client

“We’ve been using the Fransen Group for our commercial properties and have seen great results in their overall care, attention to detail, and professional Horticultural and Turf services.

– Jon A., Commercial Client

This is a close up image of purple Eastern Bee Balm flowers

July 9 2025

10 Perennials You Should Cut Back in the Summer for More Blooms

ntelligencia Landscape

Tips for Gardening in Louisville, Kentucky

Gardening in Louisville, KY, offers the perfect blend of Southern warmth and Midwestern reliability. But even in our fertile Ohio Valley soil, perennials can lose their luster if not properly maintained. One of the best ways to keep your flower beds bursting with color is by cutting back certain perennials during the summer months. This practice—called deadheading or shearing—encourages plants to redirect energy into producing more blooms rather than seed.

Here are 10 perennials that thrive in Louisville’s Zone 6b climate and benefit from a summer trim:

1. Coreopsis (Tickseed)

Why Cut Back: After the first flush of flowers fades, coreopsis can start to look ragged. Shearing it back by one-third encourages a fuller second bloom and prevents legginess.

2. Salvia

Why Cut Back: Salvia’s first round of blooms peaks in late spring or early summer. By trimming stems down to the base of new growth, you’ll get a vibrant encore in mid to late summer.

3. Catmint (Nepeta)

Why Cut Back: Once its soft purple blooms fade, catmint tends to sprawl. Cutting it back encourages a neater habit and a fresh round of fragrant flowers.

4. Veronica (Speedwell)

Why Cut Back: Trimming after the first bloom helps reduce disease and encourages a cleaner, second flowering late in the summer.

5. Shasta Daisy

Why Cut Back: Deadhead individual blooms, or shear off spent stems once the main flush is done. This can trigger a second, though smaller, bloom cycle.

6. Bee Balm (Monarda)

Why Cut Back: After flowering, bee balm can become mildewy and untidy. Prune it back to encourage fresh growth and to reduce powdery mildew risk.

7. Yarrow (Achillea)

Why Cut Back: Once the flower heads fade, cutting them down to lateral buds can result in a second bloom and a tidier plant.

8. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea)

Why Cut Back: Though often left for seedheads (great for wildlife), cutting some flowers midseason encourages new blooms and extends the show into fall.

9. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)

Why Cut Back: These bloom machines thrive when deadheaded frequently. You can also shear them back by one-third if they start to decline in midsummer.

10. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)

Why Cut Back: Remove spent flower stalks and yellowing leaves to encourage reblooming varieties to keep going strong through August.

Bonus Tips for Gardening in Louisville:

Water consistently during dry spells; cut-back perennials will need hydration to recover and rebloom.
Add a light layer of compost or slow-release fertilizer after pruning to give plants an extra boost.
Watch the weather: Avoid cutting back during extreme heat waves. Aim for early morning or late evening on cooler days.

By giving your garden a little midseason attention, you’ll keep it looking lively and colorful well into the fall. These simple cuts now will pay off with more blooms and a longer-lasting display that makes the most of Louisville’s growing season.

Need help rejuvenating your landscape this summer? Reach out to us for professional seasonal maintenance or perennial garden design tailored to the Louisville climate.

502-909-4257

July 7 2025

Best Practices For Curb Appeal on Commercial Properties

ntelligencia Landscape

Foundational Landscape Best Practices that Make a Big Difference

In commercial landscape management, every detail matters—not just for the beauty of the property, but for its efficiency, safety, and maintenance costs. By following a few core best practices, commercial property owners and managers can significantly improve their property’s appearance and function while keeping expenses in check.

1. Clean Bed Delineation & Smart Contours Promote Turf Quality and Mowing Efficiency

A well-defined edge between turf and planting beds isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a strategic choice that impacts maintenance time, turf health, and safety. Clear delineation:

Reduces mowing time by eliminating guesswork and excessive trimming.
Protects plant material from mower damage.
Improves turf quality by reducing competition with bed plantings and reducing runoff or erosion into turf zones.
Prevents mulch migration during storms or irrigation.

Proper landscape bed contouring also helps direct water where it’s needed and creates natural flow lines that are both functional and visually appealing.

2. Tree Canopy Care & Structural Pruning

Trees are often the most valuable and expensive assets in a commercial landscape. Regular pruning and canopy management provide long-term benefits:

Increases mowing efficiency: Reducing slowing down and maneuvering around low branches
Increased safety: Removes weak, dead, or hazardous limbs that could pose liability risks.
Improved light and airflow: Enhances turf growth under trees and reduces disease pressure.
Prevents infrastructure conflicts: Keeps branches from interfering with signage, lighting, or pedestrian zones.
Prolongs tree life: Structural pruning during youth promotes strong branching, reducing future removal costs.

3. Cost-Saving Landscape Practices for Property Managers

Smart irrigation: up to 30% water savings
Mulch benefits: 50% less weed pressure
Seasonal pruning: 40% fewer emergency calls

How intentional landscape management can reduce your long-term costs:

Smart plant placement reduces replacements and irrigation needs.
Mulching best practices save water, suppress weeds, and insulate roots.
Scheduled cleanups prevent overgrowth and reduce emergency costs.
Irrigation audits and smart controls lower utility costs.
Proactive pest/weed management prevents widespread damage.

When landscape design and maintenance are approached with efficiency and long-term value in mind, the results are clear:

Healthier landscapes, reduced maintenance costs, safer environments, and more attractive properties that leave a lasting impression on tenants and visitors.

Ready to Improve Your Property’s Landscape Performance?

Let our experienced team at The Fransen Group help you implement cost-saving, visually stunning, and low-maintenance solutions that elevate your property’s value.

Request a Free Landscape Assessment Today

502-909-4257

July 4 2025

Poison Ivy in Your Garden or Yard

ntelligencia Landscape

With Tips for ID, Elimination, and Prevention
By: Donna Hibbs, Fransen Group

Poison Ivy – “Leaves of three, let it be!”

Ah, summertime—the perfect season for weeding, planting, and enjoying your garden. But among your roses,

rhododendrons, and tomatoes might lurk an uninvited, itch-inducing guest: poison ivy. This pesky plant (and its cousins) can turn your peaceful garden time into an irritating nightmare—literally.

Let’s explore how to identify, understand, and eliminate poison ivy from your property safely.

Know Your Itchy Enemies – Poison Ivy vs. Poison Oak

Poison Ivy

Appearance: Typically has three leaflets, with the center leaf on a longer stalk. Edges may be smooth, toothed, or lobed.
Growth: Can appear as a vine, groundcover, or small shrub.
Color: Leaves are green in summer, turning reddish-orange in fall.
Location: Common in shady, wooded areas, along fence lines, or at the edges of landscaped beds.

Poison Oak

Although less common in Kentucky, poison oak is present in some areas.

Appearance: Looks more like a small shrub than a vine. Also has three-leaf clusters, often fuzzier than poison ivy.
Growth: Grows upright and bushy.
Location: Prefers drier, sunnier spots than poison ivy.

A Side Note – Not Poisonous: Virginia Creeper

One common lookalike is Virginia creeper, which is NOT poisonous. Key difference: It has five leaflets, not three. Each leaflet can have finely toothed edges, unlike poison ivy, which has lobes or larger teeth. It can be very difficult to tell the difference. A native vine usually found around fences, climbing trees, and walls.

Virginia Creeper – note the 5 leaflets

While Virginia creeper can cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals, it lacks the oil that makes poison ivy toxic.

What Makes Poison Ivy So Itchy?

The culprit is a sticky, invisible oil called urushiol, found in the leaves, stems, and roots of poison ivy, oak, and sumac.

Even brushing against the plant can transfer this oil to your skin, tools, or clothing, leading to an itchy rash that may last for days or even weeks.

Fun (not-so-fun) fact: Urushiol remains active on surfaces for years, so always clean your gear after exposure.

Got It? Here’s How to Get Rid of It

1. Chemical Control (Herbicides)

Use a product containing glyphosate or triclopyr, applied directly to the leaves when the plant is actively growing.
Cut large vines near the base and treat the freshly cut stump with herbicide.
Always follow label directions and protect nearby desirable plants from overspray.

2. Manual Removal (Carefully!)

Gear up: Wear long sleeves, gloves, and eye protection.
Use hand tools to dig out the roots—urushiol is present even in dead roots.
Bag all removed material in sealed trash bags.
NEVER burn it—inhaling urushiol can cause serious lung inflammation.

3. Smothering Small Patches

Cover with black plastic, newspaper, cardboard, and top with mulch or soil.
Starving the plant of sunlight takes weeks to months. Patience pays off!

4. Let Goats Do the Dirty Work

Goats are immune to urushiol and love to eat poison ivy.
They can clear large, overgrown patches, but:
You’ll need to fence them in.
Don’t pet them after grazing—the oil can remain on their fur.
No, it doesn’t transfer to their milk.

Goats make great eco-friendly weeders

5. Hire a Pro—Like Us!

Some infestations are too large or too tangled to tackle alone.

At Fransen Group, we specialize in the safe, effective removal of poison ivy and other invasive species—from delicate landscapes to wild wooded edges.

We’ll help you reclaim your space without the rash!

Don’t Wait for the Itch

If you see something suspicious in your yard—three-leaved and thriving—don’t take chances. Identify it early, take action carefully, and protect yourself and your loved ones.

Need help identifying or removing poison ivy from your property?

Contact us today for all your Landscape and Horticultural services

502-909-4257

landscaping on a green roof in Louisville, kentucky. Two chairs and a planter box with a tree.

June 30 2025

Hidden Costs of Hiring Unqualified Green Roof Management Providers

ntelligencia Landscape

Green roof maintenance is one of the most innovative and sustainable landscape solutions for commercial properties. They reduce stormwater runoff, improve energy efficiency, extend roof life, provide a natural aesthetic in urban settings, and create additional usable space. But when improperly maintained—especially by non-certified green roof professionals or untrained horticultural personnel—green roofs can quickly go from an asset to a liability.

In Louisville, KY, where green infrastructure is increasingly embraced in commercial and institutional developments, we’ve seen far too many green roof systems suffer unnecessary damage over the years due to mismanagement.

The Pitfalls of Hiring Non-Certified Green Roof Maintenance Providers

1. Lack of Understanding of Green Roof Systems

Unlike traditional landscapes, green roofs are complex living systems. They require knowledge of specialized soil substrates, drainage layers, irrigation, root barriers, and waterproofing membranes. Improper maintenance can lead to:

Soil erosion and substrate contamination
Blocked drainage systems, causing ponding and structural risk
Invasive weed pressure that chokes out desirable plantings
Physical damage to the roof membrane from improper foot traffic or tools
Voided Warranties
Fire safety hazards

2. Untrained Eyes Miss Early Warning Signs

Trained professionals know how to identify early indicators of failure—like root intrusion, nutrient imbalance, or stressed plant zones—before they escalate into major problems. Untrained crews often treat a green roof like a typical landscape bed, applying incorrect fertilizers, ignoring weight restrictions, or using weed control products not suited for rooftop environments.

3. Risk to Safety and Liability

Green roofs require OSHA-compliant safety practices, specialized equipment, and knowledge of fall protection systems. Untrained teams increase the liability exposure of property owners and property managers. Improper use of ladders, failure to use anchor points, or misuse of rooftop irrigation lines could result in injury or litigation.

The True Cost of “Cheap” Labor

Initially, untrained contractors might appear to offer cost savings, but those savings evaporate quickly when your green roof needs:

Replanting or complete restoration
Replacement of damaged irrigation or waterproofing systems
Structural assessments due to excessive loading or water pooling
Emergency repairs to restore stormwater management compliance

In some Louisville properties, we’ve seen repair costs exceed 3x the original maintenance budget, just to get the system back to its designed function.

The Real Cost of Green Roof Mismanagement

The “cheaper” option may cost up to 4x more in the long run due to avoidable failures.

Best Practices for Green Roof Maintenance in Louisville

To preserve the function, safety, and investment value of your green roof:

Hire certified green roof professionals
Ensure your vendor understands stormwater compliance, native plant care, and irrigation best practices specific to rooftop systems
Schedule regular inspections tied to seasonal performance goals and municipal code requirements
Document all maintenance and repairs to protect warranty and insurance eligibility

Local Insight: Why Louisville’s Green Roofs Need Special Care

Louisville’s variable seasonal climate—marked by humid summers, fluctuating rainfall, and winter freeze-thaw cycles—puts additional stress on rooftop systems. Maintaining plant health, ensuring proper drainage, and avoiding overloading are critical to keeping your green roof functional and compliant with local sustainability standards.

Green Roof Maintenance Checklist

Here’s a comprehensive seasonal checklist commercial property managers can use to ensure green roof systems remain healthy, compliant, and cost-effective.

Checklist Includes:

Seasonal plant health and weed inspections
Drainage and irrigation system checks
Soil media depth and erosion monitoring
Membrane inspection coordination
Documentation for warranty and compliance

Need Expert Green Roof Maintenance?

If your commercial green roof isn’t thriving—or if you’re unsure whether your current maintenance vendor is qualified—The Fransen Group is here to help. Our certified horticultural and stormwater professionals provide detailed assessments, restoration plans, and ongoing care to keep your green roof performing as originally intended.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and inspection.

502-909-4257

June 23 2025

Maximizing Quality and Horticultural Value

ntelligencia Landscape

Best Management Practices for Commercial Landscape Management

When it comes to commercial landscape management, curb appeal isn’t just aesthetic—it’s strategic. A professionally maintained landscape sends a strong first impression, reinforces your brand, and supports tenant satisfaction, customer engagement, and even employee wellness. But achieving a lush, vibrant, and healthy landscape doesn’t happen by chance. It requires strategic planning and execution grounded in Best Management Practices (BMPs).

Here are the top BMPs commercial property owners and managers should expect from a high-quality landscape management partner:

1. Site-Specific Planning and Design

Every commercial site has unique environmental, structural, and functional needs. A high-performing landscape team begins by evaluating:

Soil conditions and drainage
Sunlight exposure
Foot traffic and usage patterns
Seasonal considerations
Business branding goals

This data informs a maintenance plan and planting palette that supports long-term success, not just short-term aesthetics.

Pro Tip: Native and adaptive plants often provide the best ROI, requiring less water, fertilizer, and labor while thriving in your region’s climate.

2. Integrated Maintenance Scheduling

Seasonal landscaping needs vary, and your contractor should implement a maintenance calendar that aligns with growth cycles and climate conditions. This includes:

Weekly mowing and edging
Seasonal pruning for health and structure
Fertilization timed with plant nutrient uptake
Mulching for root insulation and weed suppression
Seasonal flower rotations for year-round color

Coordinated scheduling ensures nothing is overlooked, while also maximizing labor efficiency and visual appeal.

3. Horticulturally Sound Pruning Practices

Over-pruning and improper timing can damage plant health and ruin a site’s appearance. Quality landscape management firms employ certified horticulturists who:

Prune to promote healthy structure and flowering
Remove only the necessary growth
Time cuts to avoid pest vulnerability and disease spread

Quality Tip: Avoid shearing shrubs into unnatural shapes—natural form pruning creates healthier, longer-lived plants.

4. Smart Irrigation Management

Efficient water use is crucial for both sustainability and budget control. BMPs for irrigation include:

Smart controller installation with weather-based adjustments
Regular system inspections for leaks, coverage issues, or broken heads
Hydrozoning to separate turf, flower beds, and shrubs by water needs

A responsive irrigation plan can reduce water usage by 20–50%, all while supporting plant health and minimizing disease risk.

5. Proactive Weed and Pest Control

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the gold standard for modern commercial landscapes. Instead of blanket chemical spraying, IPM combines:

Routine scouting and monitoring
Use of biological controls where possible
Targeted chemical use only when necessary
Mulching and plant selection to prevent weed growth

This not only protects the environment and public health, but it also keeps the landscape looking professional and clean.

6. Soil Health and Turf Management

Everything starts with a good foundation! Healthy soil = healthy plants. That’s why ongoing soil analysis and improvement are core BMPs. This includes:

Aeration to relieve compaction and improve root development
pH balancing and amendments based on lab soil tests
Compost applications to support microbial life
Proper mowing height and frequency to strengthen turf and prevent weeds

Investing in soil health creates a more resilient and attractive landscape over time.

7. Sustainable Plant Choices and Renovations

Outdated, overgrown, or water-thirsty plants should be periodically replaced with:

Drought-tolerant or native species
Pollinator-friendly plants
Lower-maintenance groundcovers or ornamental grasses

Smart renovations every few years keep the property modern, reduce costs, and increase ecological value.

8. Clear Communication and Reporting

The best landscape firms prioritize communication just as much as curb appeal. Look for a provider that offers:

Digital service logs or reporting portals
Before/after photos of projects
Quarterly site reviews and recommendations
Fast response times for emergencies or extra needs

Proactive communication gives property managers peace of mind and supports better planning.

9. Safety, Compliance, and Professionalism

A commercial landscape crew should:

Wear uniforms and high-visibility safety gear
Follow OSHA and ANSI tree care standards
Use well-maintained, quiet equipment
Be fully insured with proper licensing and certifications

Professional behavior on-site protects your liability and maintains the integrity of your business environment.

Final Thoughts on Commercial Landscape Management

A well-managed commercial landscape is an investment that pays dividends in visual appeal, property value, tenant satisfaction, and operational efficiency. When you choose a landscape partner who follows these best management practices, you’re ensuring that your green space reflects the same quality, professionalism, and pride that your business stands for.

If you’re looking for a trusted commercial landscape team in the Louisville, KY area, the Fransen Group is here to help with tailored maintenance programs, seasonal color, and sustainable solutions designed for results.

Truck arriving to schedule power seeding in Louisville, KY

June 16 2025

Summer is the Time to Schedule Power Seeding

ntelligencia Landscape

Plan Now for a Lush Lawn This Fall

If you’re aiming for a thicker, greener lawn this fall, summer is the time to schedule power seeding. At The Fransen Group, we know that the best fall lawns are the result of smart summer planning — especially when it comes to power seeding, one of the most effective ways to repair and rejuvenate turf across commercial and residential landscapes.

Why Schedule Power Seeding

Power seeding — also known as slit seeding — uses specialized equipment to plant grass seed directly into the soil with precise, shallow slices. Unlike traditional overseeding, power seeding ensures better seed-to-soil contact, which results in:

Good soil temperatures faster germination
Higher seedling survival rates
A denser, more resilient lawn
Thick and established lawn before winter
Beautiful, lush, and healthy lawn for Spring

Power seeding is ideal for repairing thin, bare, or damaged areas, and it’s an excellent way to improve turf health after the stress of summer heat, pests, and disease.

Summer Is the Ideal Time to Plan

Although fall is the optimal season for seeding in the Louisville, KY region (thanks to cooler temperatures and reduced weed competition), summer is when you need to get on the schedule. Here’s why:

1. Scheduling Fills Up Fast

By late August, most professional landscaping companies are booked for aeration and power seeding. Waiting until fall to request service could mean missing the ideal planting window.

2. Site Prep Takes Time

To get the best results, lawns often need prep work, like weed control, dethatching, soil testing, or summer irrigation adjustments. Tackling these issues in summer ensures the lawn is in prime condition for fall seeding.

3. Seed Selection and Strategy

Every lawn is different. Planning in advance gives your landscape provider time to choose the best seed blend for your conditions — whether you need shade-tolerant varieties, drought resistance, or faster germination.

4. Maximize Investment

Power seeding isn’t just a one-and-done task. Pairing it with aeration, fertilization, and follow-up watering makes it more effective. When you plan early, your contractor can develop a complete turf health program that delivers real results.

What You Can Do Now

As a property owner or manager, here are a few summer to-dos to get ready for fall power seeding:

Book your consultation early. Let us evaluate your lawn now to build a fall plan.
Keep mowing and watering regularly. A healthy summer lawn makes for better seeding success later.
Treat summer weeds. Avoid competition with new seedlings by starting weed control now.
Test your irrigation system. Make sure your sprinkler zones and timing are tuned up for late summer and fall watering.

Why Schedule Power Seeding With The Fransen Group?

We specialize in professional turf renovation and understand the unique soil, sun, and seasonal challenges across Louisville and surrounding areas. With our locally tailored seed blends, expert crews, and guaranteed scheduling, The Fransen Group ensures your lawn gets the strongest start possible this fall, beginning with summer planning.

Let’s build a better lawn — starting now.
Book your fall power seeding consultation today

502-909-4257

June 16 2025

Year-Round Mowing Tips

ntelligencia Landscape

Best Practices for Spring, Summer & Fall Turf Health

Proper mowing is more than just keeping your lawn neat—it’s a vital component of turf health. Each season presents different challenges and opportunities for maintaining a strong, green lawn. Whether you’re a property manager or a homeowner, following seasonal mowing best practices will help your turf thrive from spring green-up through fall dormancy.

Wake Up the Lawn Gently

Spring is the time to transition from winter dormancy to active growth. Your mowing strategy should focus on encouraging healthy roots and preventing weed invasion.

Spring Mowing Tips:

Start slow: Wait until the grass is at least 2.5–3 inches tall before the first mow.
Sharpen your mower blades: A clean cut helps prevent disease and stress.
Never scalp: Remove no more than 1/3 of the grass height at a time to avoid shock.
Mow high: Keep your mowing height around 3–3.5 inches to promote deeper roots and crowd out weeds.
Mow when dry: Cutting wet grass can lead to clumping, ruts, and fungal issues.

Beat the Heat

Summer brings heat, drought, and stress. Your goal should be to reduce turf stress and conserve moisture.

Summer Mowing Best Practices and Tips:

Raise the mowing height: Taller grass shades the soil and reduces evaporation.
Mow less frequently: Let grass grow longer between mows if drought is present.
Leave clippings (mulch mowing): Grasscycling returns nitrogen and moisture to the soil.
Avoid mowing in the heat: Mow in the morning or early evening to avoid heat stress—both for the turf and the operator.
Keep blades sharp: Dull blades tear rather than cut, increasing stress and disease susceptibility.

Prep for Winter Dormancy

Fall is a critical season for root growth and turf recovery. Mowing helps transition the lawn into winter in a healthy state.

Fall Mowing Tips:

Gradually lower the mowing height: Bring it back down to 2.5–3 inches before the final mow to prevent matting and snow mold.
Keep mowing until growth stops: Grass may continue to grow into late fall, especially cool-season varieties like fescue and bluegrass.
Remove leaves and debris: Regular mowing can help mulch light leaf fall, but heavy buildup should be raked to prevent smothering the turf.
Final mow before winter: Make the last cut slightly shorter to reduce disease risk, but avoid scalping.

Bonus Mowing Tips for All Seasons

Change your mowing pattern: Alternate directions to avoid compaction and ruts.
Maintain your equipment: Regular oil changes, blade sharpening, and deck cleaning can make a big difference.
Stay consistent: Irregular mowing weakens turf and creates opportunities for weeds and pests.

Healthy turf starts with smart mowing. Adjusting your mowing practices with the seasons—cutting high in summer, starting slow in spring, and finishing strong in fall—will set your lawn up for long-term success. Whether you’re managing a commercial property or caring for your home lawn, seasonally smart mowing is one of the simplest and most effective tools in your turf management toolkit.

502-909-4257

Spring irrigation system in Louisville, KY

June 2 2025

Spring Irrigation Start-Up & Service Facts

ntelligencia Landscape

As the last frost thaws and Louisville begins to bloom with springtime color, it’s time to turn your attention to your irrigation system. A proper spring start-up is essential to ensure efficient watering, prevent costly repairs, and keep your landscape looking its best throughout the growing season.

Here’s a practical guide to getting your spring irrigation system up and running:

Why Spring Start-Up Matters

Louisville winters can be harsh on irrigation systems. Frozen pipes, cracked valves, and misaligned sprinkler heads are common issues if your system wasn’t winterized properly, or even if it was. Spring start-up isn’t just about turning the water back on; it’s a crucial maintenance step to catch problems early and fine-tune performance for the season ahead.

Step-by-Step: Irrigation Spring Start-Up

1. Inspect the System Before Pressurizing

Check for visible damage to sprinkler heads, valve boxes, and backflow preventers.
Clear debris like leaves, mulch, or grass that may be covering heads or valves.
Ensure the controller is off before introducing water to avoid electrical shorting or pressure surges.

2. Slowly Open the Main Water Valve

Open the main water supply gradually to avoid pressure shock to pipes.
If you hear a loud whooshing sound, stop—the water is likely flowing too fast and could damage internal components.

3. Test the Backflow Preventer

In Louisville, Kentucky, local codes often require backflow preventers to be tested annually.
This device protects your drinking water from contamination and should be inspected by a licensed technician.

4. Run Each Zone Manually

Turn on each irrigation zone from the controller and inspect:
Are all heads spraying properly?
Are any heads clogged, leaking, or misaligned?
Are there any noticeable low-pressure issues or geysers?

Fine-Tune Adjustments for a Healthy Landscape

Louisville’s mix of clay soil and variable spring weather means overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering.

Here’s what to adjust:

Head Alignment: Ensure heads are not spraying onto sidewalks, driveways, or streets.
Spray Pattern: Adjust nozzles for even coverage and prevent dry spots or puddles.
Timing Settings:
Start with two to three days a week, depending on recent rainfall.
Early morning watering is best to reduce evaporation and disease.

When to Call a Professional

Some issues require more than a DIY fix. Here are signs it’s time to bring in a pro:

Your system won’t pressurize or run.
You notice consistently wet or dry patches in the lawn.
You find damage to the backflow device or wiring issues with the controller.
You need help with smart irrigation upgrades like weather-based controllers or drip conversion for plant beds.

In Louisville, local irrigation companies often offer seasonal service plans that include spring start-up, mid-season checks, and fall winterization.

Starting your Spring Irrigation

Starting up your irrigation system correctly in spring sets the tone for a lush, efficient landscape all season long. Whether you’re a homeowner or manage commercial property in Louisville, proper maintenance saves water, reduces costs, and protects your investment.

If you’re unsure about any part of the process or want to upgrade to a smarter, more sustainable system, consider scheduling a professional spring start-up service.

Need help with irrigation service in Louisville? Contact a local expert today and get your system flowing right this season

502-909-4257