Turf notes

Circa 2007
- Vicki Tennant

After such a long, dry summer our lawns might require a little extra attention this coming fall to insure a lush green lawn next spring and summer. I wanted to jot down a few items that all homeowners, property managers, and groundskeepers may need to address and try to execute where the turf grass is concerned. 

1. Aeration of the turf is a great idea. If you've thought about it in the past and haven't wanted to spend the money, this year is a good year to do it. Aerifying the roots will break up thatch layers, root prune to encourage healthier growth, and allow new seed to get into the ground for quicker germination. 
2. If the warm weather persists and dry conditions continue, ( And we get a lift on the watering ban) plan on watering 1" per week until the first hard frost occurs.  
3. That last round of fertilizer is more important than ever. It will feed the lawn now through early next spring. 
4. Overseeding should be done especially if you've had stressed areas that are weak or bare due to lack of moisture, grub or other insect damage. 
5. Mulch the new seed patches with straw. Hydromulch ( looks like insulation or rock wool ) should not be used in place of straw. Hydromulch is strictly used so that a person can see where they have spread the seed. Straw used as mulch actually insulates the new seed and helps maintain moisture longer. Hydromulch does nothing to protect the seed. 
6. Make the last mowing as late as possible, as weather allows. Mow to a height of 2 3/4" - 3' which is a little shorter than usual so that the grass will stand up versus laying over in the winter.