BrotherHood Act Lawn care, 22 Berkshire Drive, New Germany (2026)

13/10/2015

In the name of Jesus , Amen

02/06/2015

KEEP your clean this Winter

The onset of Winter is many a gardener’s nightmare. For many of us, it means that the lush green lawns of Summer turn all too quickly into either a muddy mess or a sad, threadbare turf.

To keep a lawn looking good, it is no secret that grass needs to be regularly maintained – lawn must be cut, fertilised and watered. To keep your lawn looking its best, there are a few changes that you can make in winter months that can alleviate the gardening problems that come with the cold.

Winter in South Africa

South African Winter can be very broadly separated into two climates – cold and wet, and cold and dry. The Western Cape has a wet and not-too-cold winter, while the interior plateau gets dry, crisp and cold weather. Coastal regions do not get as icy cold as interior regions, and generally have a more regular rainfall.

Types of Grass for your Lawn

There are many varieties of grass and South African gardeners tend to use one of five varieties – Kikuyu, Buffalo, LM Berea, Bermuda and Gulf Green. There are, of course, other kinds of lawn that are used, but these are the most common. Different types of grass suit different types of residential lawns, so make sure that you know your lawn’s priorities before you decide on which lawn to use.

Keep in mind that all of these lawn types suit gardens that receive full sun, but some tolerate shade much better than others.

Kikuyu (Pennisetum Clandestinum)
Most South African residential lawns use Kikuyu, for several reasons. It is far more affordable than other grass types, mainly because it grows so quickly. Kikuyu is originally from Kenya, which means that it doesn’t handle cool climates well at all. It requires frequent watering and almost full sun, which means that it often dies out completely in Winter. On the plus side, it grows incredibly quickly, has a short recovery time and is ideal for lawns that have a lot of traffic (most sports fields are a mixture of Kikuyu and Bermuda).

Buffalo (Stenotaphrum Secundatum)
Buffalo grass is much better at adapting to shade than Kikuyu. Although it is quite a lot more expensive than Kikuyu, it is the best option for gardens that are shaded. It is slow-growing, which means it needs to be mowed less frequently. Buffalo does not have the self-reviving properties that Kikuyu has, which means that it can’t be neglected – regular watering is key. A darker green than Kikuyu, buffalo grass has a broader leaf, and is less soft to the touch than other varieties.

LM Berea
This lawn type has an excellent shade tolerance, and is the most popular choice of lawn in Kwa-Zulu Natal and areas with a similar climate. People love its soft texture, but it does not respond well to high traffic. LM Berea should not be mowed too short.

Bermuda (Cynodon Dactylon) and Blackjack
Bermuda lawn needs full sun but not as much water as other lawn types. It is often used to combat soil erosion, as its roots sit very deep in the soil. This lawn can be mowed short and it tolerates high traffic well. It is generally a very good long-term lawn solution in South Africa, except in the Western Cape, where it can get over-hydrated in Winter.

Blackjack is a genetically modified Bermuda lawn – it offers a beautiful texture and colour without needing a lot of water.

Gulf Green (Cynodan Transvaalensis)
Sometimes referred to as ‘Golf Green’, Gulf Green is an indigenous species ideal for manicured areas of lawn. It is a favourite choice in the wet Western Cape Winter, as it keeps its colour and soft texture throughout the cold months. This lawn loves water, responds well to traffic and grows quickly. Gulf Green does not thrive in the dryer interior regions in the Winter, as it hates frost.

Questions to consider

Does your area receive a high rainfall, or are there watering restrictions in your neighbourhood?
How often are you able (and willing) to mow the lawn?
Do you need a lawn that is tolerant to traffic (children and pets).
How much sun does the garden receive?
Are some areas in shade?

Common Winter Lawn Problems

Wintergrass (Poa Annua)
Wintergrass is a common lawn pest during Winter. It is a bright, light green, finely leafed grass that spreads and can cause damage if left unattended. It is such an effective invader because it has a web-like root system that chokes the root system of a lawn. This root system degrades slowly, which means that Wintergrass is never a short-lived problem. Some lawns are rife with Wintergrass, and it is the bane of many a gardener’s life.

Dehydration
In dry areas, Winter means that the lawn dies a miserable death each year. Frost can be very dangerous to lawns, so if your area experiences regular frost, make sure that your lawn is able to tolerate it.

Over-hydration
On the other side of the spectrum, lawn can easily become over-hydrated in Winter.

Fertilising
It is a good idea to change the fertiliser that you use as the seasons change. In Winter, use a fertiliser high in phosphate (a 2:3:2 fertiliser), which encourages root development over leaf development. The opposite holds true for warmer months – in spring, a nitrogen-rich fertiliser is best, as it encourages leaf development. Always remember to water your lawn thoroughly after fertilising!

Irrigation
It is important that your garden is well-irrigated, especially if you live in an area with a high Winter rainfall. Cold water sitting around the roots will cause them to rot and your lawn can die.

02/06/2015

Keep your lawns green this winter
The onset of Winter is many a gardener’s nightmare. For many of us, it means that the lush green lawns of Summer turn all too quickly into either a muddy mess or a sad, threadbare turf.

To keep a lawn looking good, it is no secret that grass needs to be regularly maintained – lawn must be cut, fertilised and watered. To keep your lawn looking its best, there are a few changes that you can make in winter months that can alleviate the gardening problems that come with the cold.

Winter in South Africa

South African Winter can be very broadly separated into two climates – cold and wet, and cold and dry. The Western Cape has a wet and not-too-cold winter, while the interior plateau gets dry, crisp and cold weather. Coastal regions do not get as icy cold as interior regions, and generally have a more regular rainfall.

Types of Grass for your Lawn

There are many varieties of grass and South African gardeners tend to use one of five varieties – Kikuyu, Buffalo, LM Berea, Bermuda and Gulf Green. There are, of course, other kinds of lawn that are used, but these are the most common. Different types of grass suit different types of residential lawns, so make sure that you know your lawn’s priorities before you decide on which lawn to use.

Keep in mind that all of these lawn types suit gardens that receive full sun, but some tolerate shade much better than others.

Kikuyu (Pennisetum Clandestinum)
Most South African residential lawns use Kikuyu, for several reasons. It is far more affordable than other grass types, mainly because it grows so quickly. Kikuyu is originally from Kenya, which means that it doesn’t handle cool climates well at all. It requires frequent watering and almost full sun, which means that it often dies out completely in Winter. On the plus side, it grows incredibly quickly, has a short recovery time and is ideal for lawns that have a lot of traffic (most sports fields are a mixture of Kikuyu and Bermuda).

Buffalo (Stenotaphrum Secundatum)
Buffalo grass is much better at adapting to shade than Kikuyu. Although it is quite a lot more expensive than Kikuyu, it is the best option for gardens that are shaded. It is slow-growing, which means it needs to be mowed less frequently. Buffalo does not have the self-reviving properties that Kikuyu has, which means that it can’t be neglected – regular watering is key. A darker green than Kikuyu, buffalo grass has a broader leaf, and is less soft to the touch than other varieties.

LM Berea
This lawn type has an excellent shade tolerance, and is the most popular choice of lawn in Kwa-Zulu Natal and areas with a similar climate. People love its soft texture, but it does not respond well to high traffic. LM Berea should not be mowed too short.

Bermuda (Cynodon Dactylon) and Blackjack
Bermuda lawn needs full sun but not as much water as other lawn types. It is often used to combat soil erosion, as its roots sit very deep in the soil. This lawn can be mowed short and it tolerates high traffic well. It is generally a very good long-term lawn solution in South Africa, except in the Western Cape, where it can get over-hydrated in Winter.

Blackjack is a genetically modified Bermuda lawn – it offers a beautiful texture and colour without needing a lot of water.

Gulf Green (Cynodan Transvaalensis)
Sometimes referred to as ‘Golf Green’, Gulf Green is an indigenous species ideal for manicured areas of lawn. It is a favourite choice in the wet Western Cape Winter, as it keeps its colour and soft texture throughout the cold months. This lawn loves water, responds well to traffic and grows quickly. Gulf Green does not thrive in the dryer interior regions in the Winter, as it hates frost.

Questions to consider

Does your area receive a high rainfall, or are there watering restrictions in your neighbourhood?
How often are you able (and willing) to mow the lawn?
Do you need a lawn that is tolerant to traffic (children and pets).
How much sun does the garden receive?
Are some areas in shade?

Common Winter Lawn Problems

Wintergrass (Poa Annua)
Wintergrass is a common lawn pest during Winter. It is a bright, light green, finely leafed grass that spreads and can cause damage if left unattended. It is such an effective invader because it has a web-like root system that chokes the root system of a lawn. This root system degrades slowly, which means that Wintergrass is never a short-lived problem. Some lawns are rife with Wintergrass, and it is the bane of many a gardener’s life.

Dehydration
In dry areas, Winter means that the lawn dies a miserable death each year. Frost can be very dangerous to lawns, so if your area experiences regular frost, make sure that your lawn is able to tolerate it.

Over-hydration
On the other side of the spectrum, lawn can easily become over-hydrated in Winter.

Fertilising
It is a good idea to change the fertiliser that you use as the seasons change. In Winter, use a fertiliser high in phosphate (a 2:3:2 fertiliser), which encourages root development over leaf development. The opposite holds true for warmer months – in spring, a nitrogen-rich fertiliser is best, as it encourages leaf development. Always remember to water your lawn thoroughly after fertilising!

Irrigation
It is important that your garden is well-irrigated, especially if you live in an area with a high Winter rainfall. Cold water sitting around the roots will cause them to rot and your lawn can die.

24/05/2015

Yesterday BrotherHood Act Lawn care was @ Westville @30 HillSide ...your yard ,our responsibility...keep on supporting BrotherHood Act lawn care ....

19/05/2015

How to Care for your Lawn and Landscaping in the Winter

the fall sets in, the cooler temperatures and the obsession about your lawn tends to go away, right? The reality is, you still have care and maintenance chores to do for your yard in order for it to come up green in the spring. To prevent winter and cold damage follow these tips to help you prepare your lawn and landscaping before the cold sets in. After all, you wouldn’t want your hard work from this year to be repeated again next spring, would you?
Continue watering:
One misconception during winter about grass is that is stops growing, dies, and doesn’t need watering until spring. This couldn’t be further from the truth. If you live in a climate where it snows, the melting snow will be sufficient to keep water levels in the grass. While if you live in a warmer climate, you can cut back on watering your lawn but not stop. The grass becomes dormant and doesn’t have a quick growth output in the winter, but it still needs moisture.

Fertilize and feed:
Your grass and landscaping plants should be given fertilizer before the winter sets in. Visit your local home improvement center or garden center to learn what products are good for your climate and region. Plants need food to feed on throughout the winter season, and fertilizer will help make the grass roots stronger for the following season. Do this during the fall before the first snow fall.

Rake leaves and debris regularly:
Grass still needs access to sunlight during the winter months. Rake up leaves and debris throughout the season to ensure grass receives ample light and air. Mold, and disease, is common in winter months when leaves and debris are left over grass. Do not leave trash bags, trash cans or other heavy items on grass for long periods of time as well.

Prune trees and shrubbery:
Depending on your climate, shrubs, and trees should be pruned before the winter season. Visit your garden & home improvement store for tips for pruning times and how far to cut limbs. Flowering plants and trees have different pruning schedules and should be researched before you start cutting.

Aerate and de-w**d your lawn:
Placing holes in your yard and pulling out soil is called aeration. This helps fertilizer; water and air get deep into the grass. Consider aerating your lawn before the winter season sets in. Consider removing w**ds and foreign plants before the winter sets in. Spray w**d killer before the winter sets in. This will ensure when spring comes w**ds from the fall will not affect your new lawn.

Your yard and landscaping will come back better and fresher in the spring with fall maintenance now. With preventative maintenance, your lawn will be shielded from disease and harmful cold as the winter months set in. Consider mulching plant beds and landscaping areas to give an extra barrier against cold and harsh winter winds. Together with your garden center you can prepare your lawn and landscaping for the upcoming winter months.

16/05/2015

If you have ever wanted to know how to clean up your yard

Tips, Tricks, and answers

Cleaning a Cedar Fence

While you cannot restore cedar fencing to its original color, you can remove black stains caused by tannins, mold, and sap. Work with protective gear if you decide to use an acid spray, and remember to cover surrounding vegetation to protect it from damaging chemicals.

Cleaning a Flagstone Walkway

Usually you wouldn't think that you would ever need to clean rocks, but when those rocks, like flagstone, are a part of your home's overall appearance, suddenly rock cleaning becomes very important. Here are some tips on how to clean flagstone walkways.

Cleaning Canvas Awnings

Canvas awnings provide protection and shade and will last years if you take the time to clean them. Never use a pressure washer to clean a canvas awning, as the pressure will simply embed dirt into the woven fibers. Instead, gently scrub with soap, water, and a brush. Follow these simple steps to have your canvas awning looking brand new.

Cleaning Dirty Pool Water

Have you ever noticed that there are times that, no matter what you try, you just can't seem to get your pool water clean? Cleaning pool water can often seem more of an art, than a science. When you find yourself faced with these situations, try a few of these methods.

Cleaning Home Siding

Have you ever noticed how the siding of your home has a tendency to become dirty, or even moldy, over time? Often, cleaning home siding can seem like a pretty straightforward task, and for the most part it is. However, you should follow these simple guidelines to ensure that you are doing it the best possible way.

Cleaning Out the Doghouse

Cleaning out your dog's house is not only a good idea, it is the law in some states. You should clean out the doghouse at least once a month, ad more often during rainy and humid seasons. Follow these tips to keep your dog's house clean and sanitary.

Cleaning Pool Water

Have you ever noticed that there are times that, no matter what you try, you just can't seem to get your pool water clean? Cleaning pool water can often seem more of an art, than a science. When you find yourself faced with these situations, try a few of these methods.

Cleaning Swimming Pools

Want to clean your swimming pool? All you need is the proper equipment and some elbow grease.

Cleaning the Hot Tub

Hot tubs can be, and often are, wonderful things to have in the yard of your home. However, if you don't take care to properly clean your hot tub, it is going to quickly break down—and then no one will have any fun. Cleaning the hot tub is quick and easy if you know what to do.

Cleaning Up Your Yard

Cleaning up your yard may be a daunting and overwhelming task, but really, you just need to know the right way to go about doing it. Here are some ways you can make sure you have an effective and productive yard cleaning!

Cleaning Your Driveway

While you can use dangerous chemicals to clean your driveway, first try simple household chemicals, one at a time. You might find something that works just as well as a costly product. Always wear protective gear when using chemicals, and while cleaning your driveway, make sure that pets and children are not nearby.

Cleaning Your Front Entry
Since guests' first impressions are based on your entry area, it's important to keep it clean and tidy. You'll first learn about how to declutter and organize the area and keep it that way.

Cleaning Your Grill

Just because it's not inside the house doesn't mean that your grill doesn't need to be cleaned. Like any other item used in food preparation and cooking, your grill or barbecue should be kept as clean and as sanitary as possible.

Cleaning Your Home's Exterior

The average home is a pretty big structure, and—especially given that the average person is relatively small in comparison cleaning the exterior can be a daunting task. Of course, one way to ignore the ugly dirt and grime that builds up on brick, wood, eaves and roofs is to simply stay inside—like the old saying goes, "out of sight, out of mind," right?

Cleaning Your Lawnmower

Fall is the perfect time of year to clean your lawn mower before storing it for the winter. If you clean your lawn mower and take the pains to maintain it before winter storage, it will be in good shape for the vigorous mowing season of spring.

Cleaning Your Sidewalk
Why feel jealous when looking through new subdivisions at model homes with pristine sidewalks? You can restore your sidewalks to their original color by following these tips. All you need is a simple cleaner, a rented power washer or stiff brush, and a little elbow grease.

Easily Cleaning Your Barbecue

Just because your barbecue goes outside, doesn't mean you don't need to clean it. Keeping your grill clean will help you cook easier and your food taste better.

Hot Tub Cleaning

Does your hot tub have scum? Make it disappear with some forethought and a little effort. Hot tub cleaning isn't actually that hard, as long as you know what to do. Learn how here.

Keeping Pool Water Sparkling Clean

Clearing away obvious dirt and debris will help keep your pool water sparkling clean, but you also need to test your water now and then to ensure proper balance. Adding pool chemicals in the right combinations will help clear cloudy water and inhibit algae buildup, as well as residue created by hair products and tanning lotions.

Maintaining Aluminum Fences

An aluminum fence is pretty convenient, with low- to no-maintenance and a pleasant look. There are a few things you can do to keep it looking its best, and you'll find the information about it here.

Outdoor Kitchen Cleaning Strategies

Because they differ from regular indoor kitchens, outdoor kitchens may require different cleaning methods. There are various strategies you can use to make your outdoor kitchen look beautifully clean.

Pool Cleaning Tips

If you have a pool, then you probably know that it requires a fair amount of maintenance. Remember these cleaning ideas to help you keep your pool looking great and ready to swim in.

Properly Disposing of Christmas Trees
If you use a live tree for Christmas, there are proper ways to dispose of it. Check with your trash service or local government and find out the programs available for tree pickup. Or, decide if you'd like to recycle your tree.

Quick Aluminum Siding Cleaning Strategies

Due to its durability, aluminum is a pretty popular choice for the siding used on houses. Even the most durable of materials are going to need the occasional cleaning. If you don't want to spend all day cleaning the siding of your home.

Removing Iron Stains from Vinyl Fencing

One of the more difficult types of stains that you will occasionally need to remove from vinyl fencing is an iron or rust stain. Luckily, vinyl is an extremely durable and easy-to-clean material. This may not seem like a very tricky operation, however there are times when it can be. The problem arises when you want to remove irons stains from vinyl fencing without damaging any of the trees or plants nearby. Here are some great ideas for removing iron stains from your vinyl fencing.

Yard Management

Everyone knows that first impressions are important, and nothing makes as much of a first impression as your yard. If you do not implement proper yard management techniques, you will quickly have an untidy and messy yard. It is the first thing that people see when they come to visit, so why not start their impression of your home off on the correct foot?
For booking contact Mr L.P Shabalaka

16/05/2015

Should lawns be cut during the winter?

As grass growth usually slows right down during the cold winter months there is no need to cut the grass on lawns and verges. However, during mild spells - such as the one much of the country is going through now - it can continue to grow.

As the weather changes between mild spells and cold snaps this can leave winter lawns looking rather untidy. In this case, the mower can be got out of the shed, but timing is all important.

Never mow the lawn if the turf is wet as this can harm the lawn and leave lasting damage. Similarly, if frost is forecast it is best not to mow as newly-cut blades will be harmed when the temperature drops below zero.

Obviously when mowing in the winter or early spring it is also important to avoid newly emerging bulbs as cutting snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils or tulips before they have flowered will spoil a spring display.

In most years the winter means a good few months off for the lawn mower - and the person who pushes it - but for tidy-minded gardeners in warmer districts, if the mild weather continues this winter, it might mean the mower is required before the spring.

BrotherHood Act Lawn care

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