Having a lush green lawn is a dream for many homeowners. However, achieving that goal is often difficult. If you've tried everything from fertilizers to expensive lawn treatments and still haven't seen the results you want, it may be time to try baking soda. It's a simple, affordable, and effective solution to make your lawn look stunning.

Whether you're a seasoned lawn care professional or a first-time gardener, discover all the benefits of baking soda. Say goodbye to poor grass and hello to a beautiful green oasis.

Neutralizes Acidic Soil

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Your grass might not grow and thrive in acidic soil. It is because acidic soil prevents the grass roots from absorbing the essential nutrients they need. However, baking soda can help neutralize acidic soil and restore its balance.

Baking soda has alkaline properties that can raise the pH levels in soil, making it more alkaline/neutral and less acidic. It can improve the soil's ability to retain nutrients and water, helping the grass to grow healthy.

Before using baking soda, determine your soil's pH first. You can do that using a testing kit or DIY tester. Once you know your soil is too acidic, increase its pH level by sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda across the soil's surface.

To incorporate the baking soda, use a garden fork or hoe to work it into the soil to a depth of a few inches. Additionally, watering the soil will aid in distributing the baking soda more thoroughly. Always begin with a conservative amount of baking soda and wait to see how your lawn reacts. Then wait a week or two before retesting the soil's pH. If necessary, repeat this process until you achieve the desired result.

Combats Powdery Mildew

Unhealthy lawn

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Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease affecting lawns, particularly during warm, humid weather. It appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the grass blades, stems, and leaves. It can spread quickly if you leave it untreated.

If your lawn is affected by powdery mildew, it can cause stunted growth, discoloration, and eventually death of the grass. Fortunately, baking soda can combat it. Its alkaline properties create an environment less hospitable to the fungus, inhibiting its growth and spread.

To use baking soda to fight powdery mildew, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with one quart of water and add a few drops of liquid soap. Next, spray the solution on the affected areas. Repeat the application every one to two weeks until the powdery mildew is gone.

Kills Crabgrass

Crabgrass

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Baking soda is a great weed killer, especially effective in combating crabgrass. Crabgrass is a common weed that can quickly take over your lawn. It can grow in thick patches, making it look uneven and unsightly. It can also be difficult to remove, as it spreads quickly and produces many seeds. To avoid its damaging effects, treat it with baking soda.

Its alkaline properties can dry out and kill the weed, preventing it from spreading. To combat crabgrass, water the weeds with a hose or watering can. Once the crabgrass is wet, apply a generous amount of baking soda. Do this on a sunny day when the baking soda's drying action is most effective. The sun's heat help burn and dry out the weeds, making it easier to remove them.

Deter Snails

Snail on the leave

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Baking soda can be effective in deterring certain pests from your lawn. One example is slugs, which harm your lawn by feeding on the blades of grass. You can use baking soda as a barrier to protect your lawn by creating a dry and abrasive surface that these pests will avoid crawling over.

It's best to get rid of snails from your lawn at night. Use a flashlight to hunt them, as they are usually active during this time. Once you find a snail, sprinkle baking soda over its soft parts, including the opening of its shell if it retreats inside. Baking soda will dry out and kill the snail quickly. Wait for the snail to die, which will vary based on its size and the amount of baking soda. After that, dispose of the snail in your compost pile.

Removes Odor

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Baking soda also reduces unpleasant smells from your lawn caused by animal urine. If your pets have access to your lawn or it is frequently visited by wildlife, it can be a real problem. In this case, baking soda is a great remedy. It's because it neutralizes the acidic components that cause the odor.

Simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda per quart of water in a spray bottle and apply the solution to areas affected by animal urine odor. Avoid over-saturating the soil, as light spraying is sufficient.

A Well-Manicured Lawn Is the Welcome Mat to Your Home

Baking soda provides numerous benefits making your lawn more vibrant. Not only does it neutralize acidic soil and combat powdery mildew, but it also deters pests and weeds. You can achieve a well-maintained lawn without harmful chemicals by following the recommended application methods. Baking soda is a natural and effective solution that can enhance the overall beauty and health of your grass, so give it a try and see the difference for yourself!