Lawn care news

Date: Late FALL 2009
Subject: Preparing for fall-winter after a short, wet summer!!

The summer of 2009 will certainly go down in the record books as one of the rainiest, and coolest. Along with this rare summer season, there were many lawn and shrub problems as a result. Lawns suffered from diseases and overall stress, especially when the short heat wave occurred in August. The shrubs and trees had severe insect activity, as well as disease issues. Water is necessary, however, too much can be just as harmful as not enough. Now that fall is here, things should get back to normal.

1) Fall watering tips:
Even though it is fall, we still need to actively water lawns and plants if there isn’t enough natural rainfall. However, the frequency can be decreased by about 50%. The general rule of thumb is to water infrequently for longer periods of time for each area. Generally speaking 2- 3 times per week at your regular length is adequate. However, pay attention to cold weather in October, and prepare hoses and watering systems for winter to prevent freezing damage. Shutting of lawn sprinkler system water supplies and draining your exterior backflow prevention device and outdoor piping can save high repair costs next season. We can provide this necessary service for you.

2) Fall Insects, Diseases, and Grubs!!
Insect and disease activity is still present, usually through frost. Grubs are most likely to be the most troublesome in your lawn. Early control will result in better results. Signs of grub activity range from disturbance of the turf by skunks or raccoons. Large groups of birds on the lawn feeding on the grubs can also be a another indicator. Grub activity will first show as signs of drought, progressing in loose, un-rooted turf. The damage is caused by the grubs feeding on the roots of your turf. Early detection and curative controls can prevent severe damage.

3) Fall Weed control!!
The short heat wave in August, combined with adequate moisture allowed weeds to flourish in lawns and garden beds. Controls can be applied this fall to eliminate the existing weeds. By controlling weeds this fall, it will prevent large populations next season.

4) Shrubs and ornamental trees:
Shrubs also pushed additional growth during August due to the excessive moisture this year. Generally July or August trimming is adequate. However, this season, additional trimming may be needed. Trimming and pruning your plants this fall will not harm them. Also, fall is the time to prune back perennials, roses and ornamental grasses after their growth has stopped or when they start to go dormant. In addition, if there are certain shrubs that you want to prune back heavily, fall is a good time to approach this task. It is important to protect your shrubs and trees from winter stress. Fertilization this fall will allow them to store nutrients creating a stronger healthier plant without pushing new growth this fall. The plants therefore can store and use these nutrients to sustain their health. Also, an application of a “winter kill protection” to your evergreen will also help prevent winter damage to plants. We can provide these important services for you!

5) Mowing:
As the temperatures begin to cool, gradually lower your mower blades to reach a final cutting height of 2 ½” or so. Be sure not to drop your cutting height at one time, this will stress the turf. Sharpen your mower blades often, dull mower blades will rip the grass blades weakening the health and give your lawn a dull yellowish appearance. Alternating mowing direction weekly, as allowable, will help decrease compaction from mower tires, and create an interesting pattern, similar to those on golf courses and sports fields. Be creative, your lawn can be cut in several different directions to create a unique appearance. When trimming your edges with a weed whacker, be sure to trim at a 90 degree angle, this will produce a nice clean edge, and prevent scalping. Be sure to remove accumulation of leaves from your lawn, especially before the first snowfall.

6) Fall Aeration:
Aeration your lawn each fall will prevent compaction, eliminate standing water, allow nutrients, water and air to enter the roots zone creating a healthier and stronger turf. Aeration will also aid in thatch control by allowing bacteria to break down any thatch layer. During the fall, turf is working hard on root development. Aeration will allow the maximum root development possible. A strong root foundation will result in a healthier and stronger stand of grass! Call us today for this important service.

Call us today for more information or price quotes for any of your Lawn, Landscape, or Lawn Sprinkler needs.