RE #1. I have inside dogs. They like to run in the fenced backyard. I want to keep it fairly dry so they will not track in mud. (NorthCarolina red clay)
ok, just water the front, it’s nearly impossible to have both a beautiful lawn and dogs.... :’)
If you cannot water early AM, just try not to water during the heat of the day. Also - I’ve hear of fungus problems resulting from late evening watering.....but I’ve never actually seen it happen (I water in the late evening all the time)
ChemLawn - yes a service like that - I would ask my neighbors who they use if this is an option - (it’s actually a very good idea and usually doesn’t cost much more than the bags yo do yourself. (I just like doing it )
I loath bagging the graqss clippings, it is usally only necessary in the spring once or twice when the grass is really growing fast. - also if you have a lot of trees, look into a “leaf mulcher” they are usually inexpensive (I found mine on Craig’s List for $20) they won’t chip branches but it will reduce the leaves by about 10 to 1. All you have to do is rake into piles and drag your mulcher from pile to pile) I put this stuff on my beds it breaks down nicely over the winter.
Of course...................
If your neighbor really wants your grass clippings.......
Tell him to come over and cut your lawn!