A lawn can be a valuable piece of real estate and a sight for sore eyes. Greenery is disappearing so any attempt to reintroduce it no matter how small the scale is more than appreciated.

Grass, like any other plant, depends on precise and consistent temperature, moisture and nutrients. Any deviation from routine can see it lose its lush green color and eventually wilt and die. If you have a lawn in need of some TLC, here's what you should know.

Keep it trimmed

Mowing is a chore, we know, but it's the only way to keep grass at a desired height. Mow in the evenings when the sun's not at its hottest. Autumn and winter – cooler months – should see you mowing the lawn once the grass has reached a height of between 3 and 3 ½ inches. In spring and summer, do the same with grass that's 2 to 2 ½ inches.

Why this precision with cutting? The reason is because grass that's cut too much decomposes slower and appears too bristly. The idea is to boast a lush lawn not a patch of green that looks like it's had a shave. Short cutting also weakens each blade of grass and may even stunt its growth.

Have mowing borders

Borders prevent grass from growing beyond determined points and make sure your lawn stays neat. To keep grass roots from growing under and over the border, install it at least 4 inches deep and an inch or two above the ground.

Keep weeds away

Weeds are notorious for choking the life out of healthy plants. That includes grass. So what you need to do is make the area as inhospitable as possible to weeds so they have no chance of growing. You could use herbicides but why bother with chemicals? Prevention the healthy way is much better not only for the lawn but for the health of you and your pets.

Feed your lawn

Grass needs to be fed but not often. Twice a year is the minimum requirement but you can include a feeding in the middle.

Just like how our bodies need all essential nutrients, grass too must be given the same. But instead of focusing solely on nitrogen-phosphate-potassium fertilizers, opt for a complete one which also contains iron, copper and other important elements.

Aerate well

Soil needs to breathe and a lawn which covers a considerable area even more so. This allows nutrients to get to the root system. Use spiked tools to poke holes into the soil and let air in.

Don't water too often

Plants need water but not so much that they drown. Once a week of deep watering is enough as it prevents thatch and keeps cinch bugs at bay. Bear in mind that this doesn't work with all types of grass so knowing what yours needs is the only way to keep it moisturized accordingly.

Lawn care isn't extensive or time-consuming. It's the initial stages that require more attention. What you've got to remember is that every type of grass is different and the only way to guarantee excellent care is to conduct research and follow rules that apply to each species, weather condition, soil type etc.