An In-Depth Review of NaturaLawn of America

In an increasingly environmentally conscious world, homeowners are seeking greener alternatives for every aspect of their lives, and lawn care is no exception. Traditional lawn care, often reliant on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, has raised concerns about chemical runoff, impacts on biodiversity, and potential health risks. This growing awareness has fueled the rise of companies specializing in organic or natural lawn care, promising lush landscapes without the harsh chemicals. Among these, NaturaLawn of America stands out as a prominent franchise, offering an “organic-based” approach to lawn health.

NaturaLawn of America positions itself as a leader in environmentally responsible lawn care, aiming to reduce or eliminate the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers through a proprietary blend of natural and organic materials. But does their promise of a beautiful, healthier lawn without traditional chemicals hold up? This comprehensive review will delve into NaturaLawn of America’s services, costs, products, customer experiences, and how they stack up against both conventional and other eco-friendly competitors. By examining the nuances of their approach, we aim to help you determine if NaturaLawn of America is the right choice for your lawn care needs.

My Review of NaturaLawn of America

As someone deeply invested in lawn health and sustainability, my review of NaturaLawn of America leans towards a cautiously optimistic perspective. Their commitment to an “organic-based” approach is commendable, representing a significant step away from the purely synthetic models that have dominated the industry for decades. For homeowners concerned about the environmental impact of their lawn care, or those with children and pets frequently using the lawn, NaturaLawn offers a compelling value proposition.

What truly sets them apart is their tiered program system, which gradually reduces chemical inputs over time. This acknowledges the reality that transitioning an accustomed-to-synthetic lawn to a fully organic regimen isn’t an overnight process. Their use of natural fertilizers, soil conditioners, and biological controls aligns well with modern ecological principles. Furthermore, the emphasis on building soil health, rather than just feeding the grass blades, is a fundamental shift that supports long-term lawn resilience and reduced dependence on external inputs.

However, it’s crucial to manage expectations. An “organic-based” lawn, especially in its initial transition phase, may not always achieve the flawless, intensely green perfection that heavily chemically treated lawns can exhibit (at least superficially). There might be a tolerance for a few more weeds or a slightly less vibrant color compared to a lawn saturated with synthetic quick-fix products. This is a trade-off for a healthier, safer ecosystem in your yard. The effectiveness of their weed control, which primarily uses naturally derived or minimum-risk materials, can sometimes vary more than traditional herbicides. It requires a more patient and holistic approach.

Ultimately, NaturaLawn of America fills a vital niche for consumers seeking a more environmentally conscious path to lawn care. While results may take time and require a shift in aesthetic expectations from some traditional chemical users, their methodology aims for a healthier, more sustainable lawn. For those prioritizing environmental responsibility and long-term soil health, NaturaLawn of America is a strong contender worth considering.

What I Like and Don’t Like

Based on the philosophy and reported experiences, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of NaturaLawn of America:

What I Like:

• Commitment to Organic-Based Care: This is their core differentiator. Their programs aim to reduce or eliminate synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, appealing strongly to environmentally conscious homeowners, families with children, and pet owners. This aligns with a more sustainable approach to lawn care.
• Focus on Soil Health: Unlike many conventional programs that primarily feed the grass, NaturaLawn emphasizes improving soil biology and structure through organic amendments. Healthy soil is the foundation for a resilient, self-sustaining lawn.
• Tiered Program Approach: Their tiered system (Standard, Deluxe, Premium) allows for a gradual transition from conventional methods to more organic ones. This flexibility acknowledges that a lawn accustomed to synthetics needs time to adapt, making the transition smoother and more effective.
• Local Franchise Model: While a national brand, the local franchise model can mean more personalized service, as owners and operators are often deeply familiar with local soil types, common weeds, and climate challenges.
• Reduced Chemical Runoff: By minimizing synthetic inputs, they reduce the potential for harmful chemicals to leach into groundwater or run off into local waterways, benefiting the broader ecosystem.
• Less Exposure to Harsh Chemicals: For homeowners and their families, reducing synthetic pesticide and herbicide use means less direct exposure to potentially irritating or harmful substances on their property.

What I Don’t Like:

• Results May Take Time: Transitioning from a chemically dependent lawn to an organic-based one is not instant. It can take a season or two (or more, depending on initial lawn health) to see significant improvements, and some homeowners might be impatient for a “perfect” green lawn.
• Potential for More Weeds (Initially): Without the aggressive broad-spectrum synthetic herbicides used by conventional companies, organic-based weed control might be less immediate or complete. Customers need to manage expectations and understand that some weed presence, especially during transition, is part of the process.
• Cost Can Be Higher: Organic and natural products can sometimes be more expensive than synthetic alternatives. This, combined with specialized application methods, might result in higher overall program costs compared to budget conventional services.
• Less Uniformity in Franchise Quality: While the local franchise model can be a strength, it can also be a weakness. Service quality, technician expertise, and customer communication can vary significantly from one franchise location to another.
• “Organic-Based” vs. “100% Organic”: It’s important for consumers to understand the distinction. While their aim is to reduce synthetics, some programs or specific applications might still use minimum-risk conventional products when absolutely necessary, or for initial transitions. True 100% organic certification for every product might not always apply.
• Limited Beyond Basic Services: While their core focus is fertilization and weed control, they may not offer a wide array of supplementary services (like aeration, grub control, disease treatment) that some larger conventional companies provide. This could necessitate hiring multiple providers.

Understanding these pros and cons is essential for homeowners to set realistic expectations and determine if NaturaLawn of America’s approach aligns with their lawn care goals and values.

NaturaLawn Plans & Services

NaturaLawn of America offers a range of lawn care programs designed to progressively reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals, moving towards a more naturally healthy lawn. Their approach is rooted in improving soil biology, which they believe is key to a resilient turf. The specific names and exact details of programs might vary slightly by local franchise, but they generally follow a tiered system that allows for a gradual transition.

Core Program Offerings:

NaturaLawn’s primary service revolves around a series of recurring applications throughout the growing season, typically 5-7 visits per year, depending on the climate zone and specific program chosen. These applications typically include:

1. Organic-Based Fertilization:

   • The cornerstone of their service. They use proprietary blends of natural and organic fertilizers designed to feed the soil microbes as well as the grass. This fosters a healthier soil ecosystem, leading to stronger root development and more resilient turf.

2. Weed Management:

   • Progressive Approach: This is where they differ significantly from conventional companies. They prioritize cultural practices (like proper mowing and watering) to naturally suppress weeds.
   • Spot Treatment: When weed control is necessary, they aim for minimum-risk broadleaf weed controls derived from natural sources, or selective, reduced-risk synthetic spot treatments only when essential, particularly in the initial transition phases. They focus on reducing the weed population over time rather than instant eradication.
   • Pre-Emergents: They may use reduced-risk pre-emergent products for crabgrass control, particularly in early program stages, or alternative natural methods like corn gluten meal, depending on the program level.

3. Insect and Disease Management:

   • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): They advocate for an IPM approach, which means monitoring for pests and diseases, and using natural or least-toxic solutions first.
   • Targeted Treatments: If pest or disease pressure is high, they may use specific, low-impact products rather than broad-spectrum sprays. This could include beneficial nematodes for grub control or natural fungicides.

Tiered Program Levels (General Examples):

• Standard Program: This is often the entry point for lawns transitioning from conventional care. It might involve a higher percentage of synthetic components initially (though still reduced compared to traditional companies) to get the lawn in shape, gradually shifting towards more organic inputs. Weed control might be more aggressive initially to address existing infestations.
• Deluxe Program: Builds upon the Standard program, further reducing synthetic inputs and increasing the organic content of fertilizers and pest/weed controls. The focus is on continued soil improvement and strengthening the lawn’s natural defenses.
• Premium Program (or equivalent): This is their most environmentally friendly option, striving for minimal to no synthetic inputs. It relies heavily on organic fertilizers, biological controls, and cultural practices for weed and pest management. This program typically requires the most patience for results and a higher tolerance for occasional weeds.

Supplementary Services (May Vary by Franchise):

Some NaturaLawn of America franchises may also offer additional services, often as add-ons, which align with their soil health philosophy:

• Aeration: Core aeration to reduce soil compaction and improve air, water, and nutrient penetration.
• Seeding/Overseeding: To thicken turf and introduce more resilient grass varieties.
• Grub Control: Specific treatments, often biological, for grub infestations.
• Lime Applications: To adjust soil pH if it’s too acidic.
• Flea & Tick Control: Using natural or reduced-risk products.
• Tree & Shrub Care: Extending their organic-based approach to ornamental plants.

Customers should always consult their local NaturaLawn of America franchise for the exact program offerings, specific products used, and a detailed breakdown of services tailored to their regional climate and lawn’s condition.

NaturaLawn of America Cost

Determining the exact cost of NaturaLawn of America services can be challenging, as it’s not a one-size-fits-all pricing model. Several factors influence the final price, and it’s essential for homeowners to obtain a customized quote from their local franchise.

Here are the primary factors affecting NaturaLawn of America’s cost:

1. Lawn Size: This is the most significant factor. Larger lawns naturally require more product and more labor, leading to higher costs. Pricing is typically calculated per square foot.
2. Program Level Chosen: NaturaLawn offers tiered programs (e.g., Standard, Deluxe, Premium/Organic). The more “organic” or comprehensive the program, the higher the cost typically will be due to the specialized nature and often higher price point of natural/organic products.
3. Lawn’s Current Condition: If your lawn is severely neglected, has significant weed infestations, or poor soil health, the initial treatments might be more intensive or require additional applications, which could impact the overall first-year cost.
4. Geographic Location: Pricing varies by region and local market conditions. Labor costs, product distribution, and local competition can all play a role.
5. Number of Applications Per Year: A typical program might involve 5-7 applications per year. More applications mean a higher annual cost.
6. Supplementary Services: Any add-on services like aeration, overseeding, grub control, or tree & shrub care will increase the total cost.

General Cost Range (Estimated):

Based on customer reports and industry averages for organic-based lawn care, you might expect to pay:

• For a standard residential lawn (e.g., 5,000-10,000 sq ft):
  • Per application: Anywhere from $50 to $100+, depending on the size and program.
  • Annual Cost (5-7 applications): Roughly $400 to $900+ per year.

Important Considerations for Cost:

• Initial Visit/Assessment: Many franchises offer a free initial consultation and quote, which is highly recommended. They will measure your lawn and assess its condition to provide an accurate price.
• Long-Term Value: While the upfront cost might sometimes be higher than the cheapest conventional services, consider the long-term benefits of improved soil health, reduced chemical use, and potentially a more resilient lawn that might require fewer inputs down the line.
• Set Expectations: Understand that organic-based results may take time, and achieving a perfectly weed-free lawn might be a slower process than with aggressive synthetic treatments. This patience is part of the investment.
• Negotiation/Bundling: Inquire if there are any discounts for paying for the full season upfront or for bundling multiple services.

To get the most accurate pricing, contact your local NaturaLawn of America franchise directly and request a personalized quote for your specific property.

Products and Ingredients

NaturaLawn of America emphasizes an “organic-based” approach, which means their product formulations are designed to be significantly different from those used by conventional lawn care companies. Their philosophy centers on feeding the soil and promoting natural biological processes rather than solely relying on synthetic chemicals to feed the grass directly or kill weeds.

Here’s a general overview of the types of products and ingredients they use:

Fertilizers:

• Organic and Organic-Based Materials: This is the core of their fertilization strategy. They utilize nutrient sources derived from natural materials. Common ingredients can include:
  • Compost Tea: A liquid extract of compost, rich in beneficial microbes and soluble nutrients.
  • Fish Emulsion: A byproduct of the fish processing industry, providing nitrogen and micronutrients.
  • Kelp Meal/Extract: Derived from seaweed, offering trace minerals and growth hormones.
  • Animal Manures: Processed and composted (e.g., poultry litter, cow manure) for slow-release nutrients and organic matter.
  • Plant-Based Meals: Alfalfa meal, soybean meal, etc., which provide nitrogen and other nutrients as they decompose.
  • Humates/Humic Acid: Organic compounds that improve soil structure, nutrient uptake, and microbial activity.
  • Molasses: Provides an energy source for beneficial soil microbes.
• Slow-Release Nutrients: Organic fertilizers typically break down slowly, releasing nutrients gradually over time. This minimizes nutrient runoff and promotes steady, healthy growth rather than rapid, artificial surges.
• Micronutrients: They often include naturally derived sources of essential micronutrients (like iron, magnesium, zinc) that are vital for overall plant health but often overlooked in synthetic programs.

Weed Control:

NaturaLawn’s approach to weed control is less about broad-spectrum chemical annihilation and more about natural suppression and targeted, reduced-risk solutions.

• Cultural Practices: The primary defense against weeds in their programs is a dense, healthy turf fostered by good soil health. A thick lawn naturally crowds out weeds.
• Corn Gluten Meal: This is a popular natural pre-emergent herbicide that prevents weed seeds from germinating. It also provides a slow-release nitrogen source. It is important to note that corn gluten meal can affect the germination of desirable grass seeds as well.
• Minimum-Risk Herbicides: For existing broadleaf weeds, they may use products that fall under the EPA’s 25(b) minimum risk pesticide list, which contains naturally derived ingredients generally recognized as safe (e.g., those containing clove oil, citric acid, or acetic acid).
• Reduced-Risk Synthetics (Transitional Programs): In their initial “Standard” or transitional programs, if weed pressure is severe and minimum-risk options aren’t sufficient, they may use highly targeted, low-impact synthetic spot treatments sparingly, with the goal of phasing them out as the lawn’s health improves. This is a point where “organic-based” differs from “100% organic certified.”

Insect and Disease Control:

• Beneficial Nematodes: For grub control, they may use beneficial nematodes, which are microscopic roundworms that naturally prey on grub larvae.
• Neem Oil: A natural insecticide and fungicide derived from the neem tree.
• Biological Controls: Utilizing beneficial microbes or organisms that suppress pests or diseases.
• Least Toxic Solutions: For other pest or disease issues, they will aim for the least toxic and most targeted solutions possible, prioritizing cultural and biological controls.

Key Difference: The fundamental difference is a move away from easily soluble synthetic salts (which can quickly leach or run off) and broad-spectrum synthetic pesticides/herbicides towards materials that build soil life, provide slow-release nutrition, and use naturally derived or highly targeted, low-impact controls. This approach aims to create a more resilient lawn ecosystem that eventually requires fewer external inputs.

NaturaLawn Availability

NaturaLawn of America operates as a franchise system, meaning their availability is dependent on the presence of local franchise owners in specific areas. While they are a national brand, they do not cover every single city or state in the United States.

General Availability:

• United States: NaturaLawn of America has a significant presence across many states, particularly in the Eastern, Midwestern, and parts of the Western U.S. They have grown considerably since their founding in 1987.
• Franchise Model: Because they are a franchise, coverage can be dense in some regions (with multiple franchises in a metropolitan area) and completely absent in others.
• Expansion: The company continues to expand its network, so new locations may open over time.

How to Check Availability for Your Location:

The best and most reliable way to determine if NaturaLawn of America services are available in your specific area is to:

1. Visit their Official Website: Go to the NaturaLawn of America website (usually www.naturalawn.com).
2. Use Their Location Finder: Most franchise-based service companies have a “Find a Location” or “Service Area” tool on their website. You can typically enter your zip code or address.
3. Contact Them Directly: If the online tool isn’t definitive, or if you prefer a direct conversation, you can use their general contact form or phone number to inquire about service in your specific address. They can then direct you to the nearest franchise or inform you if they do not service your area.

Important Note: Even if a NaturaLawn franchise is listed for your general area, it’s always wise to confirm they service your exact address, as some franchises might have specific geographic boundaries within a larger region.

Given their environmental focus, NaturaLawn of America aims to provide an alternative to conventional lawn care across a wide range of climates and regions where traditional turfgrass is common.

NaturaLawn Customer Reviews

Customer reviews for NaturaLawn of America, like most service-based franchises, tend to be varied, reflecting both the positive aspects of their organic-based approach and the inherent challenges of localized service delivery. When evaluating reviews, it’s important to consider common themes and look at a range of sources.

General Trends in Positive Reviews:

• Environmental Responsibility: Many customers appreciate the commitment to reducing chemicals and creating a safer environment for children and pets. This often overrides a desire for a “perfect” lawn.
• Improved Soil Health: Long-term customers often report noticeable improvements in their lawn’s overall health, resilience, and vitality over time, attributing it to the organic amendments and soil-building focus.
• Reduced Chemical Use: A key motivator for choosing NaturaLawn is the desire to move away from synthetic pesticides, and customers generally report satisfaction with this aspect.
• Customer Service (Local Dependent): Positive reviews frequently highlight responsive and knowledgeable local technicians and office staff. When a good local franchise is in place, personalized service can be a significant advantage.
• Weed Control (Over Time): While initial weed control might be slower, some long-term customers report effective weed suppression as the lawn’s health improves and it becomes denser.

Common Themes in Negative Reviews or Areas for Improvement:

• Patience Required for Results: The most frequent criticism is that achieving a truly “weed-free” or vibrant green lawn takes more time than with conventional chemical programs. Some customers expect immediate perfection and are disappointed by the slower transition.
• Weed Control Effectiveness: For some, the natural/minimum-risk weed control isn’t as robust as expected, leading to a higher tolerance for weeds than desired, especially in the first year or two.
• Cost: Some customers find the service to be more expensive than conventional alternatives, especially if they are comparing solely on immediate aesthetic results.
• Varying Franchise Quality: As a franchise model, the consistency of service, communication, and technician expertise can vary significantly between different locations. A poorly managed local franchise can lead to dissatisfaction regardless of the national brand’s philosophy.
• Limited Services: Some reviews suggest that certain franchises may not offer as wide a range of supplementary services as larger conventional competitors.

Where to Find Reviews:

• Google Reviews: Search for “NaturaLawn of America [Your City/State]” to find reviews specific to your local franchise.
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Check the BBB website for ratings and customer complaints/reviews for both the national company and local franchises.
• Consumer Review Sites: Websites like Yelp, Angi (formerly Angie’s List), and HomeAdvisor sometimes feature reviews.
• Company Website Testimonials: While typically curated, testimonials on their official site can offer insight into their messaging.

Overall: NaturaLawn of America generally garners positive feedback from customers who prioritize environmental responsibility and understand that transitioning to an organic-based lawn takes time. Those expecting instant, conventional-level perfection might be less satisfied initially. It is highly recommended to research reviews for your specific local franchise and to have clear conversations about expectations and program outcomes during the initial consultation.

NaturaLawn of America Vs. Others

When considering NaturaLawn of America, it’s helpful to compare its approach to both mainstream conventional lawn care companies and other eco-friendly alternatives. The fundamental difference lies in their philosophy and the products they employ.

NaturaLawn of America vs. Conventional Lawn Care (e.g., TruGreen, Weed Man)

NaturaLawn of America (Organic-Based/Hybrid Approach):

• Philosophy: Focuses on building soil health and feeding the soil biology to create a naturally resilient lawn. Aims to reduce or eliminate synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
• Products: Primarily uses natural, organic, or reduced-risk, minimum-risk synthetic materials for fertilization, weed, and pest control. Emphasizes slow-release nutrients.
• Weed Control: Often less aggressive initially. Relies on cultural practices and targeted, often naturally derived, spot treatments. Results can be slower, with a higher tolerance for some weeds, especially during transition.
• Pest/Disease Control: Favors Integrated Pest Management (IPM), biological controls, or least-toxic solutions.
• Results: Aims for a healthy, vibrant lawn that is more sustainable long-term. May not achieve the immediate, uniform, weed-free “perfection” of heavily chemical lawns in the short term.
• Cost: Can sometimes be higher due to specialized products and methods.
• Environmental Impact: Significantly lower environmental footprint due to reduced chemical use.

Conventional Lawn Care (e.g., TruGreen, Weed Man):

• Philosophy: Primarily focuses on directly feeding the grass with soluble nutrients and aggressively controlling weeds and pests with synthetic chemicals to achieve immediate visual results.
• Products: Predominantly uses synthetic, fast-release fertilizers (e.g., urea, ammonium nitrate) and broad-spectrum synthetic herbicides (e.g., 2,4-D, dicamba) and pesticides (e.g., pyrethroids).
• Weed Control: Very aggressive and typically very effective at rapid weed elimination. Uses pre-emergent and post-emergent synthetic herbicides widely.
• Pest/Disease Control: Often uses broad-spectrum synthetic insecticides and fungicides as preventative or reactive measures.
• Results: Can produce a very green, weed-free lawn quickly due to rapid nutrient uptake and strong chemical weed suppression.
• Cost: Often appears more affordable per application, especially for initial programs.
• Environmental Impact: Higher potential for chemical runoff, impact on non-target organisms, and less emphasis on long-term soil health.

Key Distinction: NaturaLawn is a philosophical choice towards sustainability, while conventional companies prioritize immediate aesthetic perfection often at a higher chemical cost.

NaturaLawn of America vs. Other Organic/Eco-Friendly Lawn Care

The “organic” lawn care market is growing, with smaller local companies often offering truly 100% organic options.

• NaturaLawn of America: “Organic-based” means a significant reduction in synthetics, with a strong preference for organic. They may still use “reduced-risk” conventional products in certain situations or transitional phases. This hybrid approach makes them accessible to a wider market.
• Truly 100% Organic Local Services: These companies strictly adhere to organic certification standards, using only OMRI-listed (Organic Materials Review Institute) products.
  • Pros: Absolutely no synthetic chemicals used, strongest environmental commitment.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive, weed/pest control might be even slower and require more cultural practices, and availability is often limited to very local markets.

Choosing: If you want a significant step towards natural lawn care with national reach and a structured program, NaturaLawn is a strong contender. If you demand absolute 100% organic certification and are willing to pay a premium and potentially seek out smaller local providers, then look beyond “organic-based” to “certified organic.”

How We Rank Lawn Care Companies

When evaluating and ranking lawn care companies, our methodology is comprehensive, considering various factors that are crucial to both service quality and customer satisfaction. Our goal is to provide a balanced perspective that helps homeowners make informed decisions.

Here are the key criteria we use:

1. Service Offerings and Program Scope:

   • Breadth of Services: Does the company offer a wide range of services beyond just fertilization (e.g., weed control, pest control, disease management, aeration, overseeding, tree & shrub care)?
   • Program Customization: Can programs be tailored to specific lawn types, soil conditions, and regional challenges, or are they one-size-fits-all?
   • Specialty Services: Do they offer specialized services like organic/eco-friendly options, or specific solutions for unique problems (e.g., grub control, lime applications)?

2. Product Efficacy and Environmental Approach:

   • Effectiveness: How effective are their products at addressing common lawn issues (weeds, pests, nutrient deficiencies)?
   • Product Type: Do they use synthetic, organic-based, or fully organic products? We consider the balance between results and environmental impact.
   • Safety Profile: What is the safety profile of their products for people, pets, and pollinators?

3. Customer Service and Communication:

   • Responsiveness: How quickly do they respond to inquiries, service requests, and concerns?
   • Communication Channels: Do they offer clear communication channels (phone, email, online portal)?
   • Technician Knowledge & Professionalism: Are technicians knowledgeable, courteous, and willing to explain treatments?
   • Problem Resolution: How effectively and fairly do they handle customer complaints or issues?

4. Pricing and Value:

   • Transparency: Is pricing clear and upfront, or are there hidden fees?
   • Competitiveness: How does their pricing compare to other companies offering similar services in the same region?
   • Value for Money: Do the results and service quality justify the cost? We consider overall value rather than just the lowest price.

5. Reputation and Reviews:

   • Customer Reviews: We aggregate and analyze customer reviews from various independent platforms (Google, BBB, Yelp, Angi, etc.) to identify consistent themes in positive and negative feedback.
   • Industry Accreditations: Are they accredited by relevant industry organizations (e.g., National Association of Landscape Professionals)?
   • Complaint Resolution: How effectively do they address and resolve customer complaints, particularly those filed with organizations like the BBB?

6. Availability and Reach:

   • Service Area: Do they have a wide geographic footprint, or are they limited to specific regions? For franchise models, we also consider the consistency of service across different locations.

7. Training and Expertise:

   • Technician Certification: Are their technicians certified or trained in relevant areas (e.g., state pesticide applicator licenses, industry best practices)?
   • Continuing Education: Do they invest in ongoing training for their staff?

By weighing these factors, we aim to provide a comprehensive and fair assessment of lawn care companies, helping consumers align their needs and values with the right provider.