Fall Newsletter
It's feeding time!
Be sure your lawn cashes in on this autumn opportunity
As autumn approaches, your thoughts might be turning to falling leaves and football games, and away from tending your lawn. Don't forget about your lawn just yet though, because good turfgrass care in the fall will make a world of difference next spring and summer.
It's true that the top growth of grass slows down in the fall, but the plants are still very busy. Carbohydrates produced by the grass plants in autumn are used to build important energy reserves.
Research has verified that fall is the most important period of the year for lawn fertilization. By providing good, heavy meals for your turf during early and late fall, you'll help it prepare for earlier green-up and healthier growth next spring.
Heavy applications of nitrogen in the spring can lead to increased top growth and restricted root growth, along with the need for more frequent mowings. But nitrogen supplied in late fall can be converted and stored for the support of a strong, deep-rooted lawn.
Some of the many benefits of fall fertilization include:
-
Keeping your grass green and growing later into the season
-
Better recovery from the stresses of summer heat and drought
-
Increasing the water-holding capacity of grass plants, which helps them withstand the drying and browning effects of winter winds.
-
An improved resistance to some cool weather fungus diseases by building over-all plant health.
-
Building food reserves for the winter and increasing root development for denser turf next spring.
Fall fertilization provides the nourishment needed by every part of the plant those you see, and those working underground.
By providing your lawn with heavy meals in the fall, you'll be promoting quicker green-up next spring and healthier turf throughout the year. Call us if you'd like more information about fall feeding.
PRACTICING SOIL THERAPY
Gypsum: A good fix for some soil ills
You may be aware that your lawn and landscape plants benefit from regular watering and fertilization. But did you know that the earth below your plants can limit the effects of your "above-ground" care?
An application of gypsum might be just what your soil needs to support healthier, hardier turfgrass. The mineral gypsum is composed of calcium, sulfur, and oxygen. Its various, naturally-occurring forms are mined to manufacture products that include: alabaster jewelry and ornaments, and plaster of Paris-based wallboard, lath, cast, and molds.
Soils vary greatly in particle size, pH value, and drainage capability. A number of things can be done to improve less-than-ideal soils. Mineral amendments like gypsum, vermiculite, perlite, sand, and lime are used to make heavy, clay-like soils more porous. Gypsum has the additional ability to help neutralize acid soils.
Gypsum is usually applied to established lawns at a rate of 10 lbs to 150 lbs. per 1000 sq. ft. It also works wonders when added to garden and flower beds. Call us if you have any questions about using this beneficial mineral amendment in your turfcare program.
WE'RE 'PLUGGING' AERATION
One of the very best things you can do for your lawn is to have it aerated. A core aerator is a machine that removes thousands of soil plugs from the lawn and drops them on the surface. The resulting holes act like mini pipelines to move water, air, and fertilizer into the root zone. The turf roots have more room to grow in the loosened soil, and they'll spread out toward those pockets of water and nourishment.
The cores will dissolve during rainfall and watering. Their soil will mix with the thatch layer, helping it to decompose and break down.
Aeration starts a lot of natural processes that lead to stronger root systems, better soil structure, and a reduced thatch layer. Put all of these benefits together, and you've got a thicker, greener, healthier lawn. Don't hesitate to schedule your aeration now.
LAWN & LANDSCAPE TIPS
Your Lawn-
If you've done any seeding recently, be sure to keep the soil moist with frequent, light sprinklings. Water twice a day (if at all possible) while it's still warm.
-
Slightly lowering your mower blade as fall approaches will help your lawn keep its color longer and better resist disease.
-
Don't be concerned if a few weeds pop up in your yard through the fall. These are normal and will be best controlled in the spring.
Your Landscape
-
If you're putting in new shrubs or trees, plant where there is good drainage. Most trees hate having "wet feet."
-
Low-voltage garden lights can be attractive and practical additions to your patio or entry areas. These lights can be attractive and practical additions to your patio or entry areas. These lights, available in many types and styles, add elegance to your yard, and illuminate pathways for guests.