Lawns are growing which means many of us have resumed maintenance. Here are
some guidelines for lawncare to minimize your costs and the environmental impact.
Proper maintenance is a proactive approach to reduce weed growth and other stresses
to the lawn.
Optimal mowing height depends on the type of grass, lawn
use and time of year. Mow at the high end of the
recommended range for each species to improve drought
resistance by encouraging deeper roots. Only one-third of
the grass leaf should be cut at a time. Removing more
results in physiological stress and possible heat or cold
injury. If the lawn has become overgrown and needs more
than one-third removed it will need to be done gradually with
a few days between each mowing.
Mowing frequency should be based on the growth rate of the
lawn. Following a set schedule may result in excessive
clippings left on the grass. Proper timing of mowing means
the grass clippings are shorter and can be returned to the
lawn. This contributes nitrogen back to the lawn. Long clippings can block sunlight to
the live turf and promote disease so they should be bagged and removed.
Maintaining a sharp blade on the mower is essential for a clean cut. A dull mower blade
tears the grass and causes the tips to turn whitish.
Mow using a different pattern each time to prevent soil compaction and turf wear from
the mower wheels. The grass blades lean the direction of the mower’s path so changing
the pattern each time allows the grass to stand more upright.
Trees can be severely damaged if bumped by the mower. Even what appears to be a
minor wound can result in death for the tree. Cultivate the soil surrounding trees to
prevent grass and weeds from growing up close to the trunk.
Watering
Apply water in the early morning. Nighttime watering promotes disease development.
Wait as long as possible between watering. Signs the turf needs water include: darker
bluish-green color and footprints remain in the lawn when someone walks across rather than leaf blades bouncing back in place. Soak the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and wait for signs more water is needed.
Fertilizing
Fertilize only to maintain a moderately green color during favorable weather and
minimally or not at all during times of weather stress. Over-fertilizing increases the water
and mowing requirements. Do not fertilize when heavy rain is expected and never dump
excess fertilizer into storm drains or sewers. The timing of fertilizer applications should
be based on turfgrass species.
• Fescue and bluegrass – September and November (optional in May)
• Bermudagrass and zoysiagrass – between May and August
• Buffalograss – June
