September & October lawn care tips for upcoming Fall & Winter seasons... This is season is typically ideal weather for root growth... but this is NYS blink and the weather will change. Labor Day weekend is recommended to "winterize" your lawn. Weather dependent is okay to wait till the last mowing or when we have about 2-3 weeks left before first ground freeze. Don’t forget to core aerate at the time of winterizing. This will encourage vigorous root growth and enhance nutrient uptake. #leafproblems - Leaves are loaded with phosphorus… If you have a lot of leaves and ignore them, they will only smother the grass over winter. This will cause large bare patches that are vulnerable to erosion in spring. #howtocompostleaves - If you want to use leaves simply mow them into fine pieces & in several directions small enough for grass to filter them down into the soil. Apply where needed. Thick layers should be raked as wet & matted will not benefit your grass or soil. #compostingleaves – Collect not only leaves, but the grass clippings. A mix of 1 part clippings to 3 parts leaves is recommended. Be sure to store pile in a location that isn’t subject to being blown or washed away. Turn pile occasionally to speed decomposition. #stewardship – If you choose not to compost contact your local municipal composting operations for bag collection. **Important to remember clean storm gutters & storm drains. Keep waterways clear of leaves as they can be carried into rivers & streams** #gotweeds – Late Sept. through Mid Oct. is the best time of year to control dandelions, clover, ground ivy & other broad leaf weeds. Most seeds of many weeds germinate in July & August, seedling weeds are easier to control NOW, rather in a more mature state next spring. Article Sources: - Ettinger Horticulture Consulting Services - Cornell University
Posted on: Thu, 19 Sep 2013 13:39:45 +0000