Home \
Home & Garden
Seven Secrets of Summer Lawn Rescue
(ARA) - Sure, summer is the season for lush lawns, but it's also the season for lawn disasters. Drought, poor soil conditions, weeds and insects all can conspire to leave your lawn looking more like a corner sandlot than the pro golf course of your dreams.
If you think the season's too far gone for a viable lawn rescue, think again, says Bob Richardson, a soil remediation scientist who helped develop LazyMan liquid soil aerator . Here are seven simple steps to revitalize your lawn from summer-smacked to summer stunning:
1. Test the soil. "Most people don't know what nutrients their lawn needs," Richardson says. "Take samples from two or three different areas of the lawn and have your local agricultural extension agent analyze them. The pros can tell you exactly what nutrients your lawn needs and in what amounts."
2. Aerate again and again. Grass roots need oxygen in order to grow and absorb nutrients. Compacted soil reduces the amount of air that gets to the roots. Normally, aeration is done in spring and fall, and is a labor-intensive, time-consuming, messy process.
Summer aeration, however, can be simple with LazyMan Liquid Soil Aerator, available at www.outsidepride.com. The product sprays on the lawn with a hose end sprayer and provides 100 percent coverage. Chemical-free, the product adds nutrients, increases air flow to the roots and boosts the earthworm population (nature's aerators).
3. Mow wisely; rake regularly. How often you need to mow depends on the kind of grass you have and how quickly it grows. Generally, you should never cut more than a third of the grass blade off at a time. Even if you use a mulching mower, raking can benefit your lawn by removing dead leaves and debris and helping control thatch.
4. Water weekly. Lawn experts say the type of grass you have will determine your watering frequency. Most grasses require a 1-inch watering about once per week along with one deep watering. For best germination, newly seeded lawns should be watered every day.
5. Whack weeds, bust bugs and fight disease. Watch for insects, weeds and any colored patches on your grass that can impair the health of your lawn. If you notice insect damage, spray with an all-purpose lawn insecticide. All weeds should be pulled immediately to prevent them from seeding and spreading.
6. Feed and fertilize frequently. Grass requires periodic feeding. Slow release fertilizers, that discharge nutrients over time, are best. Fertilizers come in solid or liquid forms, but for summer (when heat makes outdoor work more strenuous) liquid can't be beat. LazyMan Liquid Lawn Fertilizer enhances plant growth, root formation, and reduces water and heat stress. Visit www.outsidepride.com to find out more information about slow release liquid fertilizing.
7. Smart seeding. While spring and fall are optimum times to seed, it's OK to sprinkle some seed in bare patches or pet spots over the summer. Be sure to give these areas some extra attention until the seedlings are well established. To order grass seed tailored to your climate and environment, visit www.outsidepride.com.
Great looking lawns don't just happen, but if you follow these tips you can help your lawn weather the challenges of summer.
Copyright © 2007, ARAnet, inc.
|
|
Previous Story: Retractable Awnings Protect and Extend Summer Fun
|