I’m a designer-turned-lawn care pro – my tips for lush grass & the landscaping add-on that instantly elevates your home
A GRAPHIC designer turned care expert has the key to your lushest, greenest grass.
A landscaping add-on, he said, instantly adds pizzazz and makes a great home first impression.
A CREATIVE BACKGROUND
Cosmo Nardozza, a landscaping expert with six years of experience, shared his low-maintenance gardening advice for a lush lawn.
“My background in graphic design has influenced my landscaping by emphasizing visual balance, color harmony, and attention to detail in garden layouts and plant selection,” Nardozza said.
“I apply principles of composition and visual hierarchy to create aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.”
Nardozza made the pivot to landscaping after realizing a deep desire to stay connected with nature.
“Landscaping allowed me to combine my creative skills with my love for plants and the outdoors,” he explained.
“While I didn’t learn landscaping from family, my upbringing instilled in me a strong appreciation for nature and craftsmanship.”
GRASSY TLC
A green lawn, he explained, is a slow process that requires commitment with a few steadfast steps.
“To maintain a lush lawn, ensure regular mowing but avoid cutting it too short, aim for a height of around 2-3 inches,” he advised.
“Water deeply and infrequently, preferably in the morning to minimize evaporation. Consider using organic fertilizers and compost to promote soil health.”
A trick Nardozza used to prevent soil compaction and promote upward growth is to switch up his mowing pattern.
“Additionally, aerating your lawn annually can improve soil drainage and nutrient absorption,” he added.
BUT BEWARE
Beginner gardeners can watch out for a few common mistakes, such as overwatering.
“[Overwatering] can lead to shallow root systems and fungal diseases, and neglecting soil health by not aerating or fertilizing properly,” Nardozza explained.
“Another mistake is mowing too short, which weakens grass and promotes weed growth.”
Incorporating layers of plants with varying heights and textures creates depth and visual interest.
Cosmo Nardozza
As the weather gets warmer in the spring, he advised lawn owners to stay ahead of bare patches with a pre-emergent herbicide to fight weeds.
Gardening tools should also be inspected seasonally for regular upkeep.
“It’s also crucial to inspect and tune up your lawn mower and irrigation system before the summer heat kicks in,” he said.
A BUSHY UPGRADE
For those looking to elevate their homes but don’t have much time to wait on their lawns, the design expert shared a handy tip.
“Adding well-maintained evergreen shrubs or perennials can instantly elevate the appearance of a home,” he said.
“Incorporating layers of plants with varying heights and textures creates depth and visual interest.
“Symmetrical planting arrangements or framing the entrance with statement planters can also enhance curb appeal.”
