Do It Yourself Lawns V

It is time for the first weed control application of the season. A crabgrass control preferably without fertilizer, which should be applied immediately to control all weed grasses (eg. crabgrass, johnsongrass, dallisgrass, foxtail and others). Then a liquid broadleaf weed control to take care of weeds like dandelion,chickweed, henbit etc. Another lime application would be a great idea if you did not get it down before all the snow last winter. Remember to get a soil analysis before liming or fertilizing to see what the soil actually needs. Happy mowing!

Do It Yourself Lawns III

Part III is as simple as part II. The final fertilizer application should be the highest nitrogen application, (e.g. 32-0-7) or similiar ratio. Remember to keep the leaves off of the lawn. This hinders photosynthesis from occuring. That's all til next month.

Do It Yourself Lawns II

Part II is very simple. The second application of fertilizer should be applied in October. This application should be higher in nitrogen to focus the nutrients on the root system (eg 25-0-5 or similiar ratios). As the soil temperture cools the turf roots will begin to store carbohydrates for next spring. That's all til next month. That was easy huh!

Do It Yourself Lawns

My friend Rick asked if I would write a blog series for lawn do-it-yourself types. So I agreed. I hope this is helpful to Rick and anyone else who may read it. Step #1: Late summer to early fall begin by thoroughly aerating the lawn, in addition rough up any bare patches with a rake. Next apply a slow release starter fertilizer (e.g. 14-20-14). After the fertilizer apply the grass seed, preferably a quality turf-type fescue. Finally water daily for 10-15 minutes per area to keep the seed evenly moist. This should be done until the seed germinates. Note: If you use a drop spreader make two passes in perpendicular directions to avoid striping when fertilizing. Also, use a drop spreader to apply the seed around areas that you don't want grass to grow, namely mulch beds, natural areas, gravel driveways etc.