John (Trey) Rogers III, PhD, a professor in the department of plant, soil and microbial sciences at Michigan State University, East Lansing. He was a turf consultant and project leader for the 2004 and 2008 Summer Olympic Games, and he is author of Lawn Geek: Tips and Tricks for the Ultimate Turf from the Guru of Grass. Turf.msu.edu
When it comes to mowing, watering and fertilizing, skipping some steps often helps the lawn—and you.
Americans spend $40 billion each year on lawns—but money isn't their only contribution. The typical home owner also devotes 73…