SPRING

 

Control Crabgrass

If crabgrass is a problem in your turf, an application of a preemergent herbicide in the early spring is most effective. Apply by March 15 if you live south of I70 and by April 1 if you live north of I70. Turf products are available at Belleville Seed House (235-2626).

Mowing

Mow frequently. Mow as often as needed but never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf blade in a single mowing. If your mower is set at 3 inches, mow when the grass reaches 4 inches. This might be twice a week in early spring and once every two to three weeks in the summer.

Return the clippings

Bagging only increases the time and effort for mowing. Clippings return valuable nutrients and do not harm the turf.

 

 

 

SUMMER

 

Watering

During times of summer drought, 1" per week will insure that you will keep your turf nice and green. Should you decide not to irrigate, realize that your turf will go dormant until cooler, moister conditions arrive.

 

Control White Grubs

If white grubs have been a problem in the past or you have scouted for and found larvae, consider an insecticide application. The insecticides like Merit and Mach2 are very effective on white grubs, but they must be applied by late July to early August. After that, Sevin may be used. After early September, Dylox is the best product on larger grubs. All of these products should be watered in immediately after application. Another option is to irrigate more frequently during August and September. This forces the grass to outgrow the damage from the feeding grubs, if water stress can be avoided.

 

 

 

Late Summer/ Fall

 

Aerify

Aerification relieves soil compaction, improves water and air movement, increases rooting and greatly improves turf grass health. Aerification is most beneficial when the largest tines or spoons are used, penetration is 2 to 3 inches deep, and 20 to 40 holes are punched per sqare foot. Aerifiers with reciprocating arms are the most effective, whereas aerifiers that roll are less effective because they do not provide as deep penetration or as many holes per square foot. Aerification of Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and tall fescue should be done in September or spring (April) when the turf is actively growing. Zoysia grass should be aerified in early to mid summer.

 

Fertilize

Fall fertilization promotes healthy turf while not promoting excessive leaf growth that increases the need for mowing. Fertilize in early to mid-September applying 1 lb. N/100 sq ft with a slow release N product. If you have poor soils, use 12-12-12 or 8-32-16 in two or three applications. Another application in early November helps to retain good color into the winter, promotes earlier green up and encourage rooting next spring. Apply 1 to 1.5 lb N/ 100sq ft with a soluble source such as urea.

 

Weed Control

Control dandelions in the fall. Good turf supresses dandelions, but if problems persist, mid-October application of broadleaf herbicides containing 2,4,D. MCPP, Dicamba are effective. In many cases, spot spraying a herbicide directly on the offending weed is all that is needed for minor problems. The second best time to apply a herbicide is in the spring after the dandelions have started flowering. Always read and follow all label instructions when using herbicides.