Kansas City Offers Mowing-Season Tips During Coronavirus Pandemic

Press release from the City of Kansas City:

April 10, 2020

With flowers blooming and grass growing, signs of spring are visible across Kansas City. But the coronavirus pandemic is changing the way we look at everything, including our yards. Lawn and landscaping businesses are considered essential during the city’s stay-at-home order and homeowners need to do their part while planting, pruning and cutting grass to keep everyone safe.

According to the National Association of Landscaping Professionals (NALP), homeowners can protect public health by:

• continuing regular mowing and weed control
• performing essential lawn/plant treatments (like fertilizing and insect control) to reduce the spread of other diseases caused by pests like mosquitoes, ticks and fleas
• managing invasive plant species

The NALP recommends landscaping and lawn work be done individually or in small teams only, using social distancing guidelines set out by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Those afflicted with seasonal allergies should use caution as well, especially considering many symptoms are similar to those related to COVID-19.

The Solid Waste Division of the city’s Neighborhoods and Housing Services Department (NHSD) mows more than 3,500 properties citywide - primarily vacant lots and abandoned properties. Mowing crews are adhering to recommended health practices during the pandemic including wearing masks and practicing social distancing.

This press release was produced by the City of Kansas City. The views expressed here are the author’s own.