Back yard is about 2300 sq ft. facing north. Half of it was torn up in summer/fall 2016 during a garage renovation project. The original top soil was saved and replaced at the end of the project. This half was reseeded by the contractor with a Lesco Park Sun & Shade mix, which Google indicates is an equal mix of PRG/KBG/FF. It came in a bit thin in many areas IMO. Also of note, there is an in-ground swimming pool that was filled in 15 years ago by the previous owner in this area. The rest of the backyard is the original unknown northern lawn mix. The backyard is a mix of sunny and shady areas, surrounded by a couple oak trees, a birch tree, and a row of arbor vitae.
The previous owners went all organic and didn't seem to use the irrigation system much. Despite a fair amount of weeds, it looked decent when we moved in summer 2015.
I have an irrigation system with a smart controller (Rain Machine) that adjusts watering based on weather. Other than during the partial renos last fall, I typically water 2x/week and let the controller adjust the amount based on weather. There are some areas of uneven coverage unfortunately.
I mow at 3" typically and mow as needed to avoid cutting more than 1/3, but sometimes get a little lazy.
Goal is a green, mostly weed-free lawn, with a moderate level of input. Simple and time-efficient solutions are preferred. When possible, I try to limit herbicide use in the backyard because of the kids, but am willing to use them some. Anything is fair game for the front. I'm "competing" with a professional landscaper across the street
Soil test from Logan Labs:
