Commandment 1
Thou shalt mow at a high setting to encourage deep rooting.

Commandment 2
Thou shalt leave thy clippings where they lie.

Commandment 3
Thou shalt have thy soil tested.

Commandment 4
Thou shalt increase the pH of thy soil to enhance its activity.

Commandment 5
Thou shalt apply fertilizer based on thy soil tests, and consider using slow release fertilizers like composts.

Commandment 6
Thou shalt provide water prudently to lawns.

Commandment 7
Thou shalt deal with thatch with much prejudice, removing it only in extreme circumstances.

Commandment 8
Thou shalt reduce weeds with a thick and healthy lawn.

Commandment 9
Thou shalt deal with Chinch Bugs only if thou hast great numbers, and at the appropriate time — mid July to mid August.

Commandment 10
Thou shalt embrace biodiversity in thy lawn — for it improveth colour in summer, and insect resistance.

For a more detailed explanation on each of these commandments. See also the Sustainable Turf Manual

Compiled by Jack Wetmore, P. Ag.
With thanks to Jeff Morton for the inspiration, and Garth Nickerson, Neil Pond, Karen Richard, Annette Wetmore and Liz Smith for their constructive comments!

If you're hiring a lawn care company, look for one that is IPM/PHC Accredited. It's your assurance of sound, environmentally friendly turf management practices.