If you're like most homeowners, you take pride in having a nice, lush, green lawn.  However, keeping your grass nice and green isn't always as simple as it seems.  Despite your best efforts, you might find that your grass will be patchy, thin, and otherwise ugly at certain times.  Don't despair, though, with the tips in this article, you will have a better idea of how you can be enjoying green grass as much as possible.

The first step is to make sure your lawn is made up of the right type of grass.  This is of little help if you already have a lawn, but if you're starting one, make sure you choose the proper types of grass for your region.   Most lawns are a blend of "warm season" and "cool season" grasses intended to help keep the grass green for as long as possible.  Do your research and select the right blend of grass for your area.

Obviously, watering your grass is key to keeping it green.  If you're in a naturally rainy climate, this may not be an issue.  The easiest way to keep your lawn watered is with an automatic sprinkler system.  Make sure that your sprinkler system provides good, even coverage of the whole lawn without any "dead zones" where the water doesn't reach.  If you can't eliminate these zones by adjusting your sprinklers, be sure to keep them watered manually.  Otherwise, your lawn will be patchy with the dry spots.

Another thing to watch is lawn thatch.  De-thatch your lawn if the thatch layer exceeds one half of an inch (1.25 cm).  This will help the water reach the roots.

The next aspect to consider is that of fertilizer.  Applying fertilizer is a must if you want to have thick, green grass.  Apply fertilizer appropriate for the time of year at regular intervals.  Use slow release fertilizers for maximum benefit over time.  If you have a problem with weeds, you combine that application of weed killer and fertilizer to ensure that only your grass is getting the extra nutrients from the fertilizer.

Mowing is also key to lawn health.  Mow regularly, but not too often, and you will enjoy greener grass.   A good rule of thumb is to cut your grass when it is about 3 inches (~8 cm) tall, but never cut off more than the top third of the grass.  This optimum height will help ensure healthy grass.  Cut your grass with a sharp mower blade, and don't mow your lawn in the heat of the day or after you water it.  Only cut dry grass.  Alternate which direction you mow each time to prevent ruts from forming in your lawn.

So, this should help get you on your way to having a happy, healthy lawn.  If you follow these tips, it will be your neighbor rather than you commenting about the green grass on the other side.  Good luck, and enjoy your plush green lawn.