Copper sleeves are effective against slugs and snails because their body slime reacts with the metal. Paper or cardboard sleeves are also effective barriers against creeping pests. Cheesecloth draped over seedlings keeps insects from chewing on them. Kentucky bluegrass may be the best-known variety of grass, but it is not particularly well suited to our area. Local greenhouses recommend a blend of fescues and ryegrasses for lawns in the U.P. Blends work better than individual grass types at covering all areas of a lawn, but they come only in seed form.
Sod is better at holding any lawn chemicals that are used.
It also prevents soil erosion. Grass can be kept healthy by mowing often and cutting no more than the top third of the grass blades. Grass clippings left on the lawn decompose quickly and act as natural fertilizer. Organic gardening is a great way to have a productive garden or weed-free lawn without the risk of polluting surface water or groundwater with pesticides and chemical fertilizers. A Consumer Guide to Safer Alternatives for Household Hazardous Products.