I pay someone to do it every other week. My lot is 1/4 of an acre (>10,000 square feet...I have an enormous backyard) and my yardman does it for $25, about $10 cheaper than the quotes others have given me.
if you invenst in a good lawn mower then it isn't bad at all, it is actually fun. I got a good self propelled mower with a big engine, I just kinda walk behind it no matter how high the grass is and it goes on thru with no problems. With the immaturity on this forum, I figured most people who voted on that thread actually don't even have a house so the poll is probalby skewed.
I've never had a service, ever, but have been mildly considering it recently. I don't have much time for yard work with work, school, wife and child. So, the lawn goes a little longer between mowings and the edging has really taken a back seat.
In this case, yeah they do. My personal recommendation is to go with plants that need as little maintenance as possible. Native plants are always the best option because they require little watering and care and fit in with the surrounding environment. But, for anything that requires care, organic food and pesticides are the safer option.
I used to mow, but since it doesn't rain in Austin any more, I don't have to. I think I mowed last around late June or early July. It could probably stand to be trimmed, but it still doesn't really need to be mowed. We also water it at least once a week.
