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Author: Amanda Shiffler

Most comfortable with soil under her fingernails, Amanda has an enthusiasm for gardening, agriculture, and all things plant-related. With a master's degree in agriculture and more than a decade of experience gardening and tending to her lawn, she combines her plant knowledge and knack for writing to share what she knows and loves.

DIY Lawn Mower Maintenance Guide

By Amanda Shiffler | Published: February 15, 2026
Lawn Care Equipment

Learn essential lawn mower maintenance for spring, summer, and fall. Change oil, sharpen blades, and winterize properly to extend your mower’s lifespan.

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How Often Should You Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades?

By Amanda Shiffler | Updated: February 25, 2026
Lawn Care Equipment

Sharpen mower blades every 20-25 hours or 1-2 times per season. Dull blades tear grass, leaving brown tips. Learn the signs for when to replace blades.

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How to Use a Sod Cutter: Complete Guide for Homeowners

By Amanda Shiffler | Published: February 9, 2026
Lawn Care Equipment

Learn how to use a sod cutter with step-by-step instructions. This complete guide covers equipment selection, preparation, operation, and cutting techniques.

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How to Trim Bushes: Simple Guide for Homeowners

By Amanda Shiffler | Updated: March 20, 2026
Landscaping

Learn how to trim bushes like a pro. Our complete guide covers which tools to use, proper techniques, and mistakes to avoid for beautiful shrubs and hedges.

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How to Read a Soil Test Report

By Amanda Shiffler | Published: January 30, 2026
General Lawn Care

Decode your soil test report to improve your lawn. Learn to interpret pH levels, nutrient deficiencies, and organic matter for proper fertilization.

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How to Use a Soil Test Kit

By Amanda Shiffler | Published: January 30, 2026
General Lawn Care

Use a soil test kit to check pH and nutrient levels in your lawn. Follow our guide to collect samples, interpret results, and choose the right fertilizer.

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How to Change Your Soil pH: Simple Solutions for Healthier Lawns

By Amanda Shiffler | Published: January 30, 2026
General Lawn Care

Adjust your lawn’s soil pH with simple amendments. Add lime to raise acidic soil pH. Add sulfur or acidifiers to lower alkaline soil pH for optimal growth.

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How to Charge and Maintain Lawn Mower Batteries

By Amanda Shiffler | Updated: January 26, 2026
Lawn Care Equipment

Electric mower batteries charge in 30 minutes to 12 hours. We’ll show you how to maintain the batteries that power your eco-friendly mower.

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Reel Mower vs. Rotary Mower: Which Is Right for Your Lawn?

By Amanda Shiffler | Updated: January 7, 2026
Lawn Care Equipment

Reel mowers are ideal for small, flat lawns with grass under 2 inches tall. Rotary mowers handle tall grass and uneven terrain. Learn which suits your lawn.

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Lawn Care Schedule: Month-by-Month Guide

By Amanda Shiffler | Published: December 10, 2025
General Lawn Care

Follow our month-by-month seasonal lawn care schedule for cool-season and warm-season grasses. Learn when to mow, fertilize, aerate, and control weeds.

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