Achieving a vibrant, green lawn is a common aspiration for homeowners. The desire for a pristine outdoor space often extends beyond mere aesthetics, contributing to curb appeal and creating an enjoyable environment for relaxation and recreation. However, realizing this vision requires more than just good intentions. It necessitates a well-structured approach, including establishing a consistent lawn maintenance schedule and a strategic lawn fertilizer schedule, ensuring the right products are applied at the optimal times throughout the year. Fortunately, the best DIY lawn care programs are designed to simplify this process, eliminating the guesswork by delivering carefully curated lawn care plans directly to your doorstep. These programs not only provide essential treatments but also offer solutions to enhance soil quality, repair existing damage, and effectively manage pests. For homeowners seeking to take control of their lawn care, understanding the top DIY lawn care subscription services is the first step in discovering the ideal program to meet their specific needs.
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Sunday Lawn Care | DoMyOwn Turf Box | Lawnbright | Lawn Serv |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Cost | $109 per year | Varies by location | $140 per year | $39 per month |
| Shipment Frequency | Seasonally | Monthly | Every 6 to 8 weeks | Monthly |
| Ingredient Type | Natural, plant-derived | Synthetic | Natural, plant-derived | Natural, plant-derived; synthetic (plan-based) |
| Herbicide Type | Post-emergent | Pre-emergent | Pre-emergent | Pre-emergent and post-emergent |
| Product Type | Liquid | Granular | Liquid | Liquid and granular |
| Pests Treated | Ants, mosquitoes, ticks, grubs, spiders | Ants, mosquitoes, ticks, grubs, spiders, wasps, hornets | Mosquitoes, ticks | Mosquitoes, ticks |
Our Top Picks: Detailed Reviews of DIY Lawn Care Programs
The following DIY lawn care programs and subscription services have been rigorously evaluated to identify those offering the most comprehensive product ranges and reliable nationwide shipping. Our assessment also considered crucial factors such as packaging, commitment to sustainability, environmental impact, program costs, and the diversity of supplementary products available to customers.
Sunday Lawn Care – Best Overall DIY Lawn Care Program
Pros:
- Comprehensive and personalized lawn plan development process.
- Demonstrated commitment to transparent sustainability and ethical business practices.
- Provides location-specific suggestions for live plants and trees.
- Utilizes Sustainable A-LIST-approved grass seed varieties.
- Active member of 1% for the Planet, highlighting dedication to environmental sustainability.
Cons:
- Product usage instructions could be more detailed for novice users.
Why It Made the Cut:
Sunday Lawn Care stands out as an industry leader in DIY lawn care, offering nationwide service across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Its comprehensive and user-friendly lawn care program is underpinned by A-LIST approved grass seed, location-relevant plant recommendations, and a strong commitment to sustainable practices.
Sunday Lawn Care delivers a truly customized DIY lawn care experience. The process begins with a detailed online survey designed to gather crucial information about your specific climate, geographic location, and the current size and condition of your lawn. The initial shipment includes a soil test kit, a vital component that allows Sunday to accurately determine your soil’s pH level and formulate a precisely tailored treatment plan. Recognizing that successful lawn care often involves more than just fertilization, Sunday also offers high-quality grass seed, which can be seamlessly integrated into your personalized plan for effective overseeding. Beyond basic lawn treatments, customers have the option to purchase plants separately, including perennials, trees, and shrubs, all carefully selected based on their USDA plant hardiness growing zone to ensure successful growth in your region. Sunday’s system intelligently flags plants that are unlikely to thrive in your climate, eliminating guesswork and ensuring you only receive plants suited to your environment and shipped at the optimal planting time.
Subscription boxes from Sunday are shipped seasonally, with the exact number of deliveries varying depending on the length of the growing season in your area. Customers might receive anywhere from two to five shipments annually, spanning from the season’s start to its conclusion. Starting a Sunday program mid-season is also a flexible option. The specific products included and the frequency of shipments are also influenced by the particular plan you choose. Sunday’s product range extends beyond basic fertilizers to encompass pest control solutions, post-emergent weed treatments, pet damage repair products, and specialized treatments for lawns experiencing heat stress. This comprehensive selection ensures homeowners have access to everything needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn. While Sunday’s product coverage is generous, suitable for most average-sized yards, it’s capped at 13,500 square feet, which might be insufficient for very large properties. Some users have noted that the instructional materials included with the lawn care kits could be more detailed and clearer. This is a point to consider, as ambiguous instructions could potentially lead to application errors that diminish the treatment’s effectiveness.
In an era of increasing environmental awareness, Sunday Lawn Care allows customers to pursue a beautiful lawn while minimizing their ecological footprint. Sunday’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of natural and plant-based product ingredients, coupled with packaging that incorporates 30 percent post-consumer recycled materials and clear recycling guidelines. The company further demonstrates its dedication to environmental responsibility through its annual sustainability report, which transparently details its ongoing efforts. Sunday exclusively uses grass seed from A-LIST, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable turfgrass varieties and growth methods within the turfgrass industry. Furthermore, Sunday’s membership in 1% for the Planet, a global movement, underscores its commitment to supporting environmental solutions through both financial contributions and everyday operational practices.
Specs:
- Cost: Starting at $109 per year
- Shipment frequency: Seasonally
- Ingredient type: Natural, plant-derived
- Herbicide type: Post-emergent
- Product type: Liquid
- Pests treated: Ants, mosquitoes, ticks, grubs, spiders
Sunday Lawn Care has been recognized as a 2024 BobVila.com Home Improvement Hero. The Home Improvement Heroes designation acknowledges outstanding companies that homeowners can rely on for projects and services. BobVila.com’s editorial team employs a rigorous evaluation process based on factors like service availability, skill levels, service range, cost transparency, customer reviews, guarantees, refund policies, and customer support quality. Companies are independently reviewed, and some are engaged for real-world project testing. For a comprehensive list of honorees, please visit full list of honorees.
DoMyOwn Turf Box – Best for Targeting Weeds and Lawn Disease
Pros:
- Offers specialized and effective solutions for weed and lawn disease management.
- Extensive catalog of additional lawn and garden care products available for purchase.
- High maximum lawn coverage area, treating lawns up to 20,000 square feet.
- Subscribers receive a valuable 10 percent discount on all other DoMyOwn product purchases.
Cons:
- Customized plans do not include fertilizer as a standard component.
Why It Made the Cut:
DoMyOwn Turf Box excels in providing cost-effective DIY solutions for prevalent lawn issues such as fungal infections, weed infestations, and pest problems, with treatment options suitable for lawns up to 20,000 square feet. Subscribers also benefit from a 10 percent discount on a broad spectrum of supplementary lawn care products.
DoMyOwn Turf Box simplifies the process of diagnosing and resolving common lawn problems, particularly weeds, diseases, and pests. Customers begin with a straightforward diagnostic test, providing information about their location and the type of grass they have (knowing your grass type is essential). Based on this information, DoMyOwn Turf Box creates a personalized program, shipping products precisely when they should be applied, effectively removing any guesswork from the lawn care routine. Customers can choose plans focused on DIY lawn care weed control, disease control, or a combination of both, ensuring they only receive the treatments specifically needed for their lawn’s condition. Homeowners with larger properties will appreciate that DoMyOwn Turf Box accommodates lawns up to 20,000 square feet, a relatively high coverage limit for a DIY lawn care program.
While DoMyOwn’s website offers a comprehensive selection of fertilizers, pre-emergent herbicides, fungicides, and pest control solutions for issues like grubs, ants, ticks, and mosquitoes, these are not included within the standard subscription box. They can, however, be purchased separately as needed. A significant benefit for subscription box customers is a 10 percent discount on all these additional lawn care products, providing added value and cost savings.
Specs:
- Cost: Varies by location
- Shipment frequency: Monthly
- Ingredient type: Synthetic
- Herbicide type: Pre-emergent
- Product type: Granular
- Pests treated: Ants, mosquitoes, ticks, grubs, spiders, wasps, hornets
Lawnbright – Top-Tier Customer Support for DIY Lawn Care
Pros:
- Offers in-depth consultation services with experienced lawn care professionals.
- Provides real-time lawn care guidance and instructions via text messaging.
- Donates a portion of each sale to an environmentally focused non-profit organization.
Cons:
- Standard plans are not available for lawns exceeding 10,000 square feet.
Why It Made the Cut:
Lawnbright is a service deeply rooted in environmental consciousness, providing plant-based, user-friendly lawn care products that are free from harsh chemicals. It distinguishes itself through exceptional customer support, featuring expert consultations and real-time instructions delivered via text message.
Lawnbright designs DIY lawn treatments that are precisely tailored to each customer’s unique lawn care requirements, taking into account location, lawn size, and soil test results. Their product lineup includes a range of solutions, from weed control and pet spot treatments to mosquito and tick management, fertilizers, and soil enhancers. Lawnbright’s “Ingredient Promise” assures customers that all products are formulated with natural ingredients such as cedar oil, kelp, and corn gluten meal. This commitment ensures that their products are completely free of harsh chemicals that can be harmful to people and the environment. Customers can select from three plan options based on their lawn size; however, standard plans are designed for lawns up to 10,000 square feet. Larger properties require a custom quote, which may result in a higher overall cost. Treatments are scheduled for delivery every 6 to 8 weeks and are automatically paused during the months when lawn growth is dormant in a particular region.
A significant advantage of Lawnbright is its outstanding customer support system. Customers seeking answers to specific questions or needing more detailed assistance can access the company’s consultation service and speak directly with a member of the Turf Team for personalized support. Lawnbright also offers complimentary Turf Alerts, delivering valuable information via text message about upcoming weather conditions and essential lawn care tips, including lawn fertilizing schedules and watering guidelines. For homeowners who are new to DIY lawn care and unsure about developing an effective schedule, this level of support can provide significant reassurance and guidance. While specific details about these support services are somewhat limited on their website, interested individuals can contact the company directly for more information before enrolling in a plan.
Lawnbright’s dedication to sustainability is further demonstrated through its charitable contributions. A percentage of each sale is donated to Non Toxic Communities, a nonprofit organization that supports local communities in their efforts to reduce toxic chemical exposure in air, water, and soil. Homeowners who prioritize environmental responsibility may find Lawnbright particularly appealing due to this shared value.
Specs:
- Cost: Starting at $140 per year
- Shipment frequency: Every 6 to 8 weeks
- Ingredient type: Natural, plant-derived
- Herbicide type: Pre-emergent
- Product type: Liquid
- Pests treated: Mosquitoes, ticks
Lawn Serv – A Strong Contender with Weather-Optimized Plans
Pros:
- Customized lawn care boxes that are adjusted monthly based on real-time local weather updates.
- Offers both pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide options for comprehensive weed management.
Cons:
- Limited product availability in their online shop outside of subscription boxes.
- Some plans include synthetic products, which may not appeal to all environmentally conscious consumers.
Why It Made the Cut:
Lawn Serv employs a science-driven approach to deliver personalized DIY lawn care packages. The company meticulously analyzes weather data specific to each customer’s location to precisely determine their lawn’s immediate needs and tailor the product selection in each monthly shipment. Lawn Serv offers three distinct plan options: Traditional (primarily synthetic products), Mostly Natural (synthetic weed control combined with natural products), and All Natural (exclusively natural products, without weed control). The Mostly Natural and All Natural plans are slightly more expensive than the Traditional plan, yet they remain among the most competitively priced DIY lawn care services available. Lawn Serv packages are shipped monthly, and customers have the flexibility to pause, cancel, or customize their deliveries at any time. Seasonal lawn care subscriptions are also available, with deliveries automatically paused during non-growing periods based on regional climate.
In addition to their subscription boxes, Lawn Serv maintains an online store offering a variety of individual lawn care products and tools, although inventory can sometimes be limited. Notably, Lawn Serv provides both pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides, empowering homeowners to effectively manage weeds at every stage of growth. This comprehensive approach allows customers to maintain weed-free lawns throughout the entire year.
Specs:
- Cost: Starting at $39 per month
- Shipment frequency: Monthly
- Ingredient type: Natural, plant-derived; synthetic (plan-based)
- Herbicide type: Pre-emergent and post-emergent
- Product type: Liquid and granular
- Pests treated: Mosquitoes, ticks
Our Verdict: Choosing the Best DIY Lawn Care Program
For homeowners seeking a comprehensive do-it-yourself lawn treatment solution, including effective DIY weed control and environmentally conscious DIY lawn care chemicals, Sunday Lawn Care emerges as the top recommendation for the best overall lawn care subscription service. Its customizable add-ons and commitment to sustainability further solidify its leading position. DoMyOwn Turf Box earns the designation of Best for Weeds and Disease due to its highly effective DIY solutions specifically targeting common lawn problems like pests, weeds, and fungal diseases.
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a DIY Lawn Care Program
To identify the best DIY lawn care programs and subscription services, we evaluated numerous options that deliver some of the best lawn care products directly to customers’ homes. Our evaluation incorporated a range of critical considerations, including cost, the breadth of product and plan offerings, and the frequency of shipments. Environmental impact was a significant factor, assessed through manufacturing processes, packaging materials, and product ingredients, with a preference for companies offering plant-based products for both environmental and ethical reasons. Additional factors included the availability of pest and disease control solutions, and the presence of supplementary product offerings like plants and grass seed.
Before committing to a DIY lawn care program or subscription service, several important factors should be carefully considered. Establishing a lawn care schedule is crucial for achieving a healthy lawn, but each program offers different solutions and supplementary features. The composition of products—whether organic, plant-based, or animal-derived—is also a key consideration. Customers should evaluate shipment frequency and the sustainability of product packaging. Cost is, of course, a significant factor; while investing slightly more for desired features may be worthwhile, overpaying for subpar products should be avoided. Thoroughly researching DIY lawn care programs in advance will empower customers to select the option best suited for their lawn and personal preferences.
Subscription Plan Details and Cost Analysis
When comparing DIY lawn care subscriptions, understanding the shipment frequency is essential for creating the most effective lawn care schedule. Many DIY lawn care treatment plans are seasonally based, with product shipments timed accordingly. Some subscription services deliver products monthly throughout the active growing season to ensure consistent treatment application.
The cost of DIY lawn care products can vary widely depending on the plan type, the products included, and the payment structure—whether paying upfront for a full year or season or opting for monthly installments. Carefully comparing these cost structures is crucial for budget-conscious homeowners.
Ingredient and Product Composition: Understanding What You Apply
Ingredient lists in DIY lawn treatment products can differ significantly. It’s crucial for consumers to understand the components of the products they apply to their lawns to ensure alignment with their needs and values.
-
Plant-derived vs. Animal-derived Ingredients: Fertilizers may contain both animal-derived and plant-derived components, each providing essential nutrients. Many common fertilizers utilize a combination of both types.
- Animal-based fertilizers include ingredients like bone meal, blood meal, and fish meal, as well as animal waste-based materials like cow or chicken manure. These often have a strong odor, and some, particularly manure, can potentially burn plant roots due to high nitrogen content. Animal waste-based ingredients also tend to be high in salt, which can negatively impact beneficial soil microbes. These factors contribute to animal-derived ingredients being considered less environmentally friendly than plant-based alternatives. Furthermore, ethical concerns regarding animal rights may also lead some consumers to avoid animal-derived ingredients.
- Plant-based ingredients such as corn gluten, soybean meal, and molasses typically have less odor and break down gradually over time, providing a more sustainable nutrient source for plants.
-
Liquid vs. Granular Products: The chosen lawn fertilizer schedule will depend on the type of products used and whether you are fertilizing new grass or maintaining an established lawn.
- Granular fertilizers are dry, typically in pellet or sand-like form. Many are slow-release, gradually releasing nutrients into the soil over time. However, quick-release granular options are also available. Slow-release granular fertilizers often require only one application per season.
- Liquid fertilizers are concentrates that need dilution with water before application. They may be liquid or soluble powders. Most liquid fertilizers are quick-release, delivering immediate nutrients. While effective, they often require more frequent reapplication.
-
Pre-emergent vs. Post-emergent Herbicides: Herbicides are substances designed to control unwanted vegetation, such as weeds. Conventional herbicides are categorized as pre-emergent or post-emergent. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weed growth by targeting weed seeds during germination. Post-emergent herbicides are applied to kill existing, sprouted weeds but do not prevent new seeds from germinating. The most effective type depends on the specific weed situation and environmental conditions like sunlight and rainfall.
Addressing Lawn Disease: Treatment and Prevention
While preventing lawn diseases is primarily achieved through healthy lawn care practices and proper lawn nutrition, ensuring your DIY lawn care program offers options for treating lawn fungus and diseases is prudent.
Lawn fungus and diseases can arise from various factors, including improper mowing techniques, overwatering, and using unsuitable fertilizers. Even with diligent care, fungal infections or diseases may occur. Common signs include brown patches, yellowing grass, mushroom growth, or snow mold (a silvery substance on the grass surface). To avoid the significant cost of a new lawn, prompt treatment is essential.
Pest Control Product Availability for Lawn Protection
Just as lawn diseases are a potential concern, turf pests are also a common challenge. Therefore, assessing the pest control product offerings of a lawn care subscription service is crucial. Common turf pests responsible for lawn damage include grubs, chinch bugs, sod webworms, armyworms, and cutworms. Homeowners may also seek control for nuisance insects that, while not directly damaging to lawns, can detract from outdoor enjoyment, such as mosquitoes, ticks, and ants.
Many lawn care subscriptions include pest control alongside basic lawn care treatments. Knowing that the right products are available to address specific pest control needs can significantly influence the choice of a subscription or lawn care program.
Sustainability of Products and Packaging
The convenience of DIY lawn care subscriptions delivered directly to your door is undeniable. However, many products are packaged in single-use plastics. Environmentally conscious customers will want to evaluate the packaging materials used. Is recycled or sustainably sourced plastic used? Are the plastics themselves recyclable?
Furthermore, fertilizer manufacturing can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Customers concerned about environmental impact may want to investigate whether companies have implemented policies to minimize their environmental footprint throughout product manufacturing, packaging, and shipping.
Availability of Additional Lawn and Garden Products
While the primary focus might be on lawn care products, having access to supplementary products from the same provider can be a significant advantage, offering convenient one-stop shopping. These might include lawn care equipment like hand tools, mowers, and other gardening tools, as well as plants such as perennials, trees, and shrubs.
Is a DIY Lawn Care Program the Right Choice for You?
While the best DIY lawn care programs are designed to simplify lawn care and empower homeowners, DIY lawn care isn’t universally suitable. Time commitment is a key consideration. Even though DIY subscriptions aim to minimize the time investment, regular lawn maintenance still requires dedicated time, which may not be feasible for everyone due to various constraints, including mobility limitations. In such cases, hiring one of the best lawn care services to handle routine lawn care might be a more practical solution. Many professional services also offer basic gardening services like weeding and hedge trimming, making them even more appealing for those with limited time or physical capacity. Additionally, some essential lawn care services are not typically included in DIY programs but may be necessary, such as lawn aeration, which averages around $140 annually and is often recommended yearly.
For some homeowners, achieving a prize-winning yard may seem unattainable due to persistent issues like pests, diseases, heat damage, or prolonged neglect. Because many common lawn problems manifest similarly—brown spots, yellow spots, bare patches—accurate diagnosis and effective resolution can be challenging. In some situations, overseeding or complete lawn replacement (possibly with sod, depending on the cost of sod vs. seed) might be the most effective course of action. These more complex situations may necessitate consulting a lawn care specialist for professional assistance.
Furthermore, some gardeners prefer to use homemade fertilizers. Given that fertilizer is central to most subscription services, a DIY program might not be worthwhile for those who favor this approach.
Cost-Effectiveness: DIY Lawn Care Programs vs. Professional Services
The average cost of the best DIY lawn care programs ranges from approximately $39 per month to $140 per year. However, prices can increase considerably if additional products like grass seed and herbicides are added, potentially reaching $200 or more annually. It’s important to remember that lawn care is seasonal, so monthly subscriptions typically won’t ship during winter dormancy. A typical annual cycle covers spring, summer, and fall, with most DIY programs including treatments to boost spring growth, maintain health during the growing season, and prepare the lawn for fall.
Comparing costs between DIY programs and professional lawn care services generally reveals DIY as the more affordable option. The national average cost for a lawn care service visit is around $124, with a typical range of $48 to $206, depending on yard size and other factors. Professional services may require multiple visits throughout the year, especially during the growing season, potentially costing an average of $124 per visit for 4 to 6 months of monthly service. However, when considering Sunday Lawn Care vs. TruGreen, note that professional lawn care services may also include maintenance services like mowing and edging, which DIY programs require homeowners to handle independently.
Advantages of Embracing a DIY Lawn Care Program
A lush, thriving lawn is a desirable goal for many homeowners, often seen as a source of pride and a contributor to curb appeal. Beyond aesthetics, DIY lawn care programs offer several compelling advantages:
- Eliminates Guesswork: No more confusion in home improvement store aisles trying to decipher product labels and choose the right treatments.
- Reduces Application Errors: Products are delivered with specific application timelines, minimizing the risk of using the wrong product at the wrong time and potentially damaging the lawn.
- Ingredient Control: DIY subscriptions allow homeowners to see exactly what ingredients are being applied to their lawn and soil, offering greater control over chemical exposure and ingredient preferences compared to some professional services that may not offer organic or non-chloride options.
- Cost Savings: DIY lawn care programs are generally significantly less expensive than hiring professional lawn care services.
- Fresh Air and Exercise: DIY lawn care provides an opportunity to spend time outdoors and engage in light physical activity.
Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Lawn Care
Individual lawns have unique requirements, but some common questions arise when considering DIY lawn care. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Q. What is the best mowing pattern?
The spiral pattern is often considered optimal: start at the perimeter and mow inwards in a spiral. Alternatively, long stripes are efficient and widely used. Mow along the long edge, make a U-turn, and mow back in the opposite direction to create stripes.
Q. What is the 1/3 mowing rule?
The 1/3 rule recommends only cutting off the top third of the grass blade length during mowing. This practice helps maintain lawn health and prevents stunting growth by avoiding excessively short cuts.
Q. When should I test my soil?
According to the University of Maine, the best time for soil testing is well in advance of the growing season. Early spring after the last frost or fall before the first frost are ideal times. Keep in mind that lab-based soil tests typically take at least 3 weeks to return results.
Q. Is it better to fertilize before or after mowing?
For optimal lawn fertilizer application, fertilizing after mowing and raking is recommended. This allows fertilizer to reach the soil more easily.
Q. Should I water my lawn 2 or 3 times a week?
To avoid overwatering, watering two to three times per week is generally sufficient. Adjustments may be needed during periods of heavy rainfall or extreme heat.
Q. What is the best homemade fertilizer for lawns?
Compost tea is often cited as an excellent homemade lawn fertilizer. It’s a liquid mixture made from solid compost matter, sometimes enhanced with liquid concentrates like fish fertilizer or seaweed extract.
Bob Vila and Recurrent Ventures, our parent company, prioritize conservation and sustainability. While the solutions presented in this article are effective, not all are strictly organic or sustainable. BobVila.com encourages readers to make informed decisions about home and property maintenance, whether hiring professionals or undertaking DIY projects. Our aim is to empower readers to choose solutions that minimize detrimental impacts on the health and longevity of our planet and its inhabitants.
Save Energy and Stay Comfortable
Modern energy-efficient space heaters are designed to warm individual rooms, allowing users to avoid heating unoccupied areas of their homes. We conducted tests on the most popular space heaters available to determine their performance and identify the top performers.
SEE OUR FAVORITES
