After the long dry summer, the first few showers serve as a reminder that, for your lawn, fall is spring. Proper care now can help you make the most of your turf for the year to come.
All Lawns
- If your soil is acidic, apply granular lime (either calcium lime or dolomitic) at about 12 lbs. per 1000 square feet any time in the fall.
- In addition to applying lime (if needed), it’s a good idea to apply either an organic lawn food, like G&B Organics Lawn Fertilizer, or a winter lawn fertilizer in September, and again in December. Reference our lawn schedules for a complete month-to-month lawn care schedule: Organic Lawn Care Schedule, and Traditional Lawn Care Schedule.
- Control crane fly larvae. Use long-lasting granular insecticides (such as Bonide Insect and Grub Control) to catch as many of the larvae as possible. Beneficial nematodes are also available as an organic control.
- Evaluate your soil compaction and thatch build-up – if you are going to rent a de-thatcher or an aerator, you want to do it while you still have time to seed.
- If you are aerating, de-thatching, or if you have thin or bare spots, patch them with fresh seed. Over-seeding like this usually takes 2 or 3 lbs. of seed per 1000 square feet, and should be done by mid-October. You can also apply lime after seeding, if your lawn needs it.
- If you are not over-seeding, prevent new weed seed from sprouting with a pre-emergent herbicide (such as Hi Yield Turf and Ornamental Grass and Weed Stopper).
Brown Lawns
Lawns that have gone dormant for the summer need a little extra attention:
- As new growth begins, mow one time really low to encourage vigorous new growth.
- While the grass is still brown and short, rake a fresh layer (about 1/2″) of compost into the turf, either before or after fertilizing.
- Some weeds will respond to the changing weather faster than your grass; remove or herbicide them to reduce competition.
New Lawns
Now is an excellent time to seed a new lawn!
Here’s a simple do to list:
- Improve or import soil.
- Apply lime and fertilizer as above.
- Spread seed at 10 lbs. per 1000 square feet, and either roll it in with a water-fill roller, or cover it with about 1/8″ of fine compost.
- For best germination, do this by mid-October.
Fall Lawn Care Class Recording
After the long summer months, your lawn needs a little TLC. In this class recording, Darren Morgan shares timely techniques and products needed to maintain a green, lush, and pest free lawn.