Spring Lawn Care
The lawn should be left alone until the ground dries out. This normally
occurs in mid-April in the Twin Cities area, however, every lawn is different,
and even areas within a lawn may dry out more quickly than others. Check
each area before raking so as not to damage the grass plants. Rake lightly
to remove any loose debris, but be careful not to injure the crowns of the
grass plants. Once the lawn has been raked, there are several steps that
can be taken.
Determine if the lawn needs a crabgrass preventer or if the lawn has broadleaf weeds, like dandelions. Does the lawn look thin or have bare patches? There are solutions for all of these problems. The right solution for a particular lawn is determined by the homeowner. Come into any Bachman's Garden Center and tell our lawn experts what the problems are; they can select the proper product that's just right for your lawn.
Remember, crabgrass preventer is applied when the ground reaches 50°-to-55°. This varies from year-to-year, but averages May 1 in our area. (All pre-emergent crabgrass killers must be watered into the soil to be effective.) Weed killers or weed-and-feed are post-emergent herbicides and must be applied when the temperature warms up and the weeds are actively growing. This is about May 15 to June 15 in the Twin Cities.
In a normal year, Spring rains give the lawn enough water to grow. A good rule of thumb is one inch of water per week for a lawn. If watering a lawn, apply the one inch at one time. One good soaking is much better than a lot of small sprinkles.
In the Spring, the mowing height of the grass should be 2½-to-3 inches. Mow as frequently as necessary to maintain this recommended height, without removing more than one-third of the blade with any one cutting. Make sure the mower blade is sharp. A dull mower damages leaves.
If the soil is compacted or heavily thatched, it can be aided by aerating. The best time to aerate is mid-August up until mid-September; however, Spring is also acceptable, when the turf begins to turn green.
During the Spring season, keep an eye on the lawn for signs of Insects and diseases. Bring in samples of the problem to any Bachman's Garden Center, and our lawn experts will be happy to advise you on what to do to correct the situation.
For further information, read online our care sheet on "Seeding Your Lawn", "Crabgrass and Quackgrass in the Lawn", "Fertilizing Your Lawn", "Lawn Care Calendar", and "Lawn Weeds".
Revised: 03/10/98
|
