Question 1

When should I apply pre-emergent herbicide?

Accepted Answer

Apply pre-emergent when your 3-day average soil temperature reaches 50–55°F at 0–2 inch depth. This is the crabgrass germination window. Use Neighbor's Envy soil temperature calculator — enter your ZIP code to get real-time soil temps and a go/no-go recommendation.

Question 2

How much fertilizer should I apply to my lawn?

Accepted Answer

The formula is: lbs of fertilizer = (lawn area in sq ft / 1000) × desired N rate (lbs per 1,000 sq ft) / (bag N% / 100). Most cool-season lawns need 0.5–1 lb of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft per application. Use the Neighbor's Envy nitrogen calculator for an exact bag weight.

Question 3

What soil temperature kills crabgrass seeds?

Accepted Answer

Crabgrass doesn't die from cold — it germinates when soil temps consistently hit 55°F. Pre-emergent herbicides like prodiamine must be applied before this threshold, ideally when the 3-day average is in the 50–55°F range. Below 45°F you're safe to wait. Above 55°F, act immediately.

Question 4

How many pounds of grass seed do I need to overseed?

Accepted Answer

It depends on grass type. Kentucky bluegrass: 2–3 lbs/1,000 sq ft. Tall fescue: 6–8 lbs/1,000 sq ft. Perennial ryegrass: 5–8 lbs/1,000 sq ft. Bermuda: 1–2 lbs/1,000 sq ft. Use the Neighbor's Envy overseeding calculator to get an exact bag count for your lawn size.

Question 5

How do I know if my soil pH is off?

Accepted Answer

If your grass looks pale, fertilizer isn't working, or you have persistent moss or weeds, pH is a likely culprit. Most lawns need pH 6.0–6.5. Apply lime to raise pH, sulfur to lower it. Use the Neighbor's Envy soil pH calculator to get exact lbs of lime or sulfur for your lawn size and soil texture.

The lawn tools your neighbors don't know exist

Nitrogen Rate Calculator

Overseeding Rates

Pesticide / Herbicide Mix

Irrigation & Water Needs

Soil Amendment (Lime / Sulfur)

Soil Temperature & Prodiamine Timing

Neighbor's Envy — Free Lawn Care Calculators for the Obsessive DIY Homeowner