Understanding Chicago's Climate
Chicago is in the Cold climate zone, enjoying moderate summers but fairly cold winters. The city sees the most rain in May and the least in February, with an average of approximately 36 inches per year. Temperatures range from an average high of about 57 degrees Fahrenheit to an average low of roughly 41 degrees Fahrenheit.
Lawn health is closely tied to the local climate. Wetter months can create lush green grass but deplete soil nutrients. Drier months, on the other hand, can turn grass brown and stunted. Local weather patterns will have a big influence on when in your lawn care schedule you fertilize, seed, and aerate.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Lawn Care Company
Consider these factors when choosing the right Chicago lawn care company for you and working on a seasonal care schedule.
Services Offered
Full-service lawn care service providers offer a number of services to maintain your lawn's health in different seasons. These services often include the following:
- Core aeration
- Fertilization
- Overseeding
- Pest control
- Soil amendment and pH control
- Killing weeds
Reputation and Experience
Ensure you know a lawn care company's reputation and years of experience. You can use sources such as the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot to read about real customer experiences. Newer providers might have fewer customer reviews and therefore be harder to evaluate.
Environmental Practices
Another thing to consider is a lawn care service provider's environmental practices. Some companies pride themselves on using products with organic and natural ingredients, which have minimal environmental impact if used properly. Others use harsh chemical pesticides and herbicides that can present a health hazard for your family and pets.
Pricing
The price of lawn care in Chicago will depend on whether you opt for an annual plan or a single visit. Annual plans include seasonal lawn maintenance and are a great hands-off option for keeping your lawn healthy year-round. Alternatively, you might only need a single service visit, which can be cheaper but won't include any follow-up.
Potential DIY Solutions
Homeowners who prefer DIY lawn care can purchase the necessary supplies and equipment at local retailers. Lawn and garden centers sell grass seed and fertilizer, and heavy-equipment rental shops frequently have walk-behind aerators that can be rented by the day. However, DIY lawn care involves a significant time commitment and doesn't include the guidance of a professional. A full-service lawn care company provides professional evaluation and develops a treatment plan to get your lawn in top shape. If full-service lawn care is out of budget, you might choose a DIY subscription plan, in which the company provides personalized lawn care products that you apply to the lawn yourself.
Lawn Care Service Costs in Chicago
Full-service lawn care costs $76–$172 on average in Chicago. However, your cost will vary depending on the services you choose and the size of your lawn. See the table below for average cost by service:
Lawn Care Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Lawn mowing | $114 - $171 |
Leaf removal | $71 - $476 |
Snow removal | $71 - $142 |
Core aeration | $80 - $119 |
Fertilization | $47 - $142 |
Overseeding | $667 - $952 |
Pest control | $95 - $1238 |
Weed control | $80 - $95 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Care in Chicago
Do I need to worry about my lawn getting too dry in Chicago?
Do Chicago lawn care companies offer landscaping services?
What type of grass seed is used in Chicago?
- Tall Fescue
- Fine Fescue
- Perennial Ryegrass
How often should I aerate my lawn?
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