During the summer months, we are faced with rainy, hot humid days. Here are some tips to prevent problems with your yard this summer.
* Although we know you like to cut your lawn short during those rainy summer months to prevent more frequent mowings, that short grass can increase your chances of bug infestations. Cut your lawn at the highest recommended setting. Most weeds require plenty of light to germinate so you want to keep the grass as thick and long as possible to create shade near the soil surface. Keeping the grass blades longer also produces healthier grass plants, and a healthy stand of grass makes it hard for weeds to break through. Check the recommended mowing heights for your type of grass.
* When you mow, remove no more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. Mow at frequent intervals to keep the grass a fairly consistent length. Scalping your lawn produces patches where weeds can begin to take over your lawn.
* If you need to water your lawn, do it for long periods of time less times per week. Watering only once or twice a week for long intervals promotes deeper root growth instead of encouraging the germination of undesirable weeds. Remember that most established lawns require one inch of water per week from rain or sprinkling. When watering is required, water early in the morning. At this time, less wind and lower temperatures keep evaporation to a minimum. If you must water at night, avoid getting the foliage wet. If your lawn is a new seeding, water in shallow, more frequent intervals until the grass gets established.
* To insure a better looking lawn, treat patches of undesirable weeds with a post-emergent herbicide. Wait for the weeds to die, clear the dead foliage out, and re-seed the bare patches as soon as the herbicide directions allow.
* To keep your grass looking its best, remember to sharpen your mower blade periodically. A dull mower blade bruises, tears, and weakens the grass plants, resulting in a ragged, tarnished appearance at the leaf tip.
* If your grass won't grow in an area of high traffic, the soil may be too compacted. Aerate the area and reseed. If the traffic cannot be redirected, adding a stepping stone path may be the best solution for the area.
* Do a soil test now. You'll learn what amendments your soil needs. Adding amendments in the fall will get you started on a great spring lawn.
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