Turf – It’s ALL About Timing!
Time for
this and time for that….We have heard it before, but for establishing a quality
lawn, timing IS everything. Whether it is seeding, weed control or fertilizing,
success is dependent on the proper time each task is done. So what should we do
now (for spring)?
Mid-April is
a prime time to control broadleaf weeds like dandelions and chickweed. To
effectively control these intruders, the plants must be actively growing. The herbicide has to be absorbed into leaf
tissue to move through the plant. To
avoid damaging grass or other plants apply broad leaf herbicides before outdoor
temperatures are 80 to 85 degrees.
Pre-emergent
control for crabgrass should have already been applied to lawns by this time of year. The right timing for that is the 1st of April. To be
effective a pre-emergent herbicide literally has to be present before the
emergence of the young crabgrass from seed. (Crabgrass is an annual weed,
living out its life and going to seed in one growing season.) Granular products
are generally more effective and provide longer control than a liquid.
A common
belief is that our cool season lawns need to be fertilized now…NOT SO! Spring fertilization feeds weeds that escape
control, reduces drought tolerance, and sets the stage for disease and
increases the need to mow. Root systems stop growing as the plant concentrates
its energy developing leafy tissue. Then the plants cannot supply themselves
with water and minerals. Turf is then susceptible to drought and disease. So do
your lawn a favor and leave the fertilizer in the shed till fall.
The best time to seed Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, or perennial ryegrass is from mid-August to late September. The second best time is from mid-February to mid-March and not later than mid-April. Due to competition from weeds and moisture stress, lawns seeded late spring to midsummer are seldom successful.
Sod of Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue can be installed almost anytime. However, during extremely hot and dry summers, it is best to delay sodding until the weather improves.
Bermuda grass and zoysia grass should be established during May or June, after the soil is warm.
A quality
lawn and landscape not only looks great, it increases the value of your
property. And the correct timing can
save you money, worry and precious time, which is the point, after all.
Turf care
Calendar:
Weed Control
Recommendations:
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