The District of Invermere has been a pesticide-free community since May 1st, 2009. Here are some reminders and tips for creating and maintaining a healthy yard.

Eight Steps for a Healthy Lawn:

  • Healthy lawns Need Healthy Soil
    Add natural organic matter like compost on a regular basis to condition and enrich your soil. Healthy lawns are more resistant to disease, weeds and drought damage.
  • Choose the Right Grass
    Spread drought-tolerant grass seed liberally over your lawn in the spring and fall. Use a grass seed mixture rather than one variety. A thick lawn will crowd out weeds
  • Keep Your Mower Blade High
    To discourage weeds, keep your lawnmower blade at a height of 7 cm (3 inches)
  • Recycle Your Grass
    Leave your grass clippings on the lawn to return nutrients to the soil. This can supply up to 30% of the fertilizer needs of your lawn. It also helps to retain moisture and relieves the task of raking.
  • Accept Some Weeds
    Some weeds are good for your lawn or garden. Allow clover in your lawn for its nitrogen-fixing magic.
  • Let Your Lawn Breathe
    Once a year, aerate your lawn by removing small plugs of earth to allow air and water to get to the roots. A pesticide-free lawn will encourage earthworms, nature’s aerators.
  • Water to the Roots
    To promote deep root growth, let your lawn soak up 1 inch of water once a week, early in the morning.
  • Fertilize with Organic Fertilizer
    Once a year, in the spring or fall, use an organic fertilizer