Lawn Care Calculators
Area Calculator
Calculate the square footage of your lawn.
Fertilizer Calculator
Calculate how much fertilizer you need for your lawn.
Watering Calculator
Calculate how much water your lawn needs.
Slope Calculator
Calculate the slope grade of your lawn.
Grass Type Selector
Find the best grass type for your climate.
Lawn Installation Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost to install or renovate your lawn.
Lawn Maintenance Schedule
Get a customized maintenance calendar for your lawn.
Weed Finder & Remover
Identify and learn how to remove common lawn weeds.
Free Tools For a Perfect Lawn
What if we told you that achieving a perfect lawn doesn’t have to be hard work? Our free tools help you find the best grass for your area, fix drainage issues, and save money on lawn care. Let’s create a lush, green lawn that boosts your home’s value and provides a perfect outdoor space!
Why Your Lawn Matters
A beautiful lawn enhances curb appeal, increases property value, and offers a safe, enjoyable space for family and friends. Plus, gardening can reduce stress and even burn calories!
1. Lawn Size Tool 📏
Why It Matters: Knowing your lawn’s size prevents overbuying or underbuying supplies, saving you money and ensuring a healthy lawn.
Best Free Tools:
- Google Earth’s Measure Tool – Draw around your yard for an exact size.
- LawnStarter’s Free Calculator – Enter your address for an instant estimate.
Pro Tip: Measuring your lawn can save hundreds annually on fertilizer and seed. Try our Area Calculator above!
2. Fertilizer Helper 🌾
Why It’s Essential: Too much fertilizer burns grass; too little starves it. Get the right amount with free tools.
Best Free Calculators:
- Yara’s Free Calculator – Input grass type and soil pH for tailored advice.
- University Extension Guides – State-specific fertilizer plans.
Pro Tip: Mix store-bought fertilizer with compost for sustainable soil health.
3. Water Wizard 💧
How Much Water? Most lawns need 1–1.5 inches of water weekly, but soil, climate, and grass type matter.
Best Free Apps:
- WaterMyYard – Uses weather data to optimize watering.
- H2O Tracker – Tracks rainfall to prevent overwatering.
Bonus: Smart watering can save $50/month, especially in dry states like California and Texas.
4. Slope Checker ⛰️
Why Slope Matters: Low spots cause puddles and dead grass; steep slopes lead to runoff and dry patches.
Best Free Tools:
- Home Slope Calculator – Measures elevation changes.
- DIY Method – Use a stake, string, and level to check slope.
Perfect for: Hilly areas like Tennessee, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.
5. Grass Picker ✅
Choosing the Right Grass: The wrong grass type leads to high-maintenance, patchy lawns.
Best Free Tools:
- Scotts Lawn Advisor – Enter your zip code for grass suggestions.
- University Agricultural Extensions – Free state-specific guides.
Example Grass Types:
- Florida: St. Augustine (heat-resistant)
- New York: Kentucky Bluegrass (cold-tolerant)
- Arizona: Bermuda (drought-friendly)
Pro Tip: Many home improvement stores offer free soil pH tests.
6. Cost Saver 💰
Sod vs. Seed: Sod is instant but pricey; seed is cheaper but takes time.
Best Free Tools:
- Sod vs. Seed Estimator – Compares costs based on yard size.
- Lowe’s & Home Depot Pricing Tools – Find bulk discounts.
Real Savings: DIY seeding can save up to $1,200 vs. hiring a landscaper!
7. Weed Finder & Remover 🌱
Why Weeds Matter: Weeds steal nutrients and spread fast. Identify and remove them early.
Best Free Apps:
- PlantSnap – Upload a photo to identify weeds.
- Weed Alert – Recommends weed killers.
Natural DIY Weed Killer:
- 1 gallon white vinegar
- 1 cup salt
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
Pro Tip: Use a stainless steel weeder for chemical-free weed removal.
5-Minute Lawn Care Hacks
Morning Magic: Water at 6 AM to reduce evaporation.
Weed Warrior: Use vinegar spray on dandelions (pet-safe).
Mow Smart: Keep grass 3 inches tall to block weeds.
Fun Fact: 15 minutes of gardening burns 100 calories—equal to a candy bar!
Why Your Lawn Makes You Happier
Stress Buster 🧠 Soil contains mood-boosting germs (Mycobacterium vaccae).
Kid-Friendly 👧 Grass is softer and safer than concrete.
Cool Trick ❄️ Lawns are 30°F cooler than pavement in summer.
Nature Helper 🐝 Clover flowers support honeybees—skip the weed killers!
What Real People Are Saying
“I grew a soccer-worthy lawn in 2 months!” – Jake, Ohio dad
“Saved $800 using the cost tool!” – Maria, Texas retiree
3 Steps to Start Today
- Measure: Use our free calculator above.
- Pick One Task: Start with fertilizing or watering.
- Celebrate: Share a photo of your lush lawn!
Quick Reference Guide
Lawn Size & Planning
| Tool | What It Does | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Google Earth Measure Tool | Measures yard’s exact size | Google Earth |
| LawnStarter Size Calculator | Estimates size using address | LawnStarter |
Best Grass for Your Area
| Region | Best Grass Type | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Northern States (NY, MI, IL, OH) | Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescue | Cold-resistant |
| Southern States (TX, FL, GA, AL) | Bermuda, St. Augustine | Heat & drought-tolerant |
| Western States (CA, AZ, NV, NM) | Buffalo Grass, Bermuda | Low water use |
| Midwest (KS, MO, NE, IA) | Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass | Adapts to changing weather |
Lawn Watering Guide
| Grass Type | Water Needs | How Often? | Best Time to Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 1.5 inches/week | Every 3–4 days | Early morning (5-9 AM) |
| Bermuda Grass | 1 inch/week | Every 5–7 days | Early morning |
| St. Augustine | 1-1.5 inches/week | Every 3 days | Early morning |
| Fescue | 1-1.25 inches/week | Every 4 days | Morning or evening |
Fertilizer & Lawn Feeding
| Tool | What It Helps With | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Yara’s Free Fertilizer Calculator | Tells you how much fertilizer to use | Yara |
| University Extension Guides | Free state-based fertilizing plans | Local university website |
Fertilizer Tips:
- Use slow-release nitrogen for long-term growth.
- Mow before fertilizing to aid absorption.
- Water after applying to activate nutrients.
Fixing Lawn Drainage & Slopes
| Issue | Solution | Free Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Standing Water (puddles) | Aerate & mix sand with soil | Use a pitchfork or aerator |
| Erosion (water runs off) | Install a French drain | DIY with gravel & pipe |
| Uneven Lawn | Level with topsoil & sand mix | Use a DIY lawn leveling rake |
Weed Control Handbook
| Weed Type | How to Remove | Cheap DIY Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Crabgrass | Pull by hand before it spreads | Use a stainless steel weeder |
| Dandelions | Dig out deep roots | Pour boiling water or vinegar solution |
| Clover | Improve soil pH & add nitrogen | Use corn gluten meal |
| Broadleaf Weeds | Use natural weed killers | Mix vinegar, salt & dish soap |
Sod vs. Seed – Cost Comparison
| Option | Pros | Cons | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sod (Pre-grown grass) | Instant lawn, prevents erosion | Expensive, must install quickly | $0.30–$0.85 per sq. ft. |
| Grass Seed | Cheaper, more grass options | Takes longer to establish | $0.10–$0.20 per sq. ft. |
Lawn Care Cheat Sheet
- Measure your lawn first to avoid wasting money.
- Pick the right grass for your climate.
- Use fertilizer calculators for precise feeding.
- Water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
- Fix drainage issues to prevent puddles and dry spots.
- Remove weeds early with manual or natural solutions.
- Compare sod vs. seed to fit your budget.
FAQs
How can I make my grass greener fast?
- Apply high-nitrogen fertilizer.
- Water in the morning for better absorption.
- Mow correctly (never cut more than 1/3 of the blade).
How much water does my lawn need?
Most lawns need 1 to 1.5 inches per week. Use our watering calculator to be precise!
What’s the cheapest way to remove weeds?
- Hand-pull with a stainless steel weeder.
- Use a vinegar-salt solution for natural control.
What’s the best grass type for my state?
Use the Scotts Lawn Advisor or local university guides for grass suited to your climate.
Why does gardening make me happy?
Gardening reduces stress, provides fresh air, and seeing a thriving lawn is satisfying!
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not professional lawn care advice. Test DIY methods on a small area first, check local guidelines, and consult a professional for expert advice. Results depend on climate, soil quality, and grass type.