During the winter months, there is not much happening as far as turf-grass goes. You can keep busy by pruning trees and shrubs, however, this is the time of year to plan for the up-coming spring. It is a great time to assess the previous year’s successes and failures.

If you would like professional help planning for this coming year, please give us a call at 302-266-8000 or email to speak with a turf-care specialist.

With the refreshing welcome of cooler weather, now is the ideal time to renovate your lawn. Aeration is a very effective way to physically condition the soil by way of the rolling mechanism and hollow tines that open the soil which improve air circulation and root development while at the same time leaving a soil core on the surface to serve as a top dressing. This process is also very effective in loosening compacted, trouble areas for better seed germination. Broadcast seeding afterwards allows for effective seed to soil contact which is a main component for successful seed germination.

As a general rule, seed should be spread at a rate of about 5 pounds per 1,000 square feet of turf area. Seed selection is very important and should be suited to accommodate sun or shade conditions. Consider also the type of activity the lawn area will be used for such as one with heavy traffic activity or one that is purely for appearance.

Another reason to renovate in the fall is competition. Turf seeds will not have to compete with germinating weed seeds as they would with spring seeding. Weeds in the fall are on the downward cycle of their growth allowing the turf seed to germinate and establish itself with a much higher success rate. These elements combined with proper moisture and sun will yield good results.

Anyway you look it, fall is for planting; especially for turf.

Things to Remember:

– Sherald Reagle, ITMS customer

ITMS treated grass with roots over 10" long

Turf Tip: Building the Foundation

As the stage is set for a successful turf season, it is very important to establish a foundation for that success.

The first building block in that foundation, is to provide nutrients for improved soil structure and to prevent undesirable weed seed from germinating. The first and most important application must include a pre-emergent agent to prevent these unwanted items from germinating at all – such as crabgrass.

Timing of this first application is key and should be done by May 1st to be most effective. This essential foundational block will help set the stage for a successful growing season and provide you with successful expectations.

Spring Turf Tip: Mowing

Welcome to Spring!

With the weather warming and Mother Nature returning to life, it is important to start the year with sound cultural practices.

Soon the lawns will be moving into their most aggressive growth period of the year. The importance of cutting your grass to a height of no less than 3 1/2 inches, cannot be stressed enough. As the top of the grass plant is rapidly growing, so are the roots and the crown of the plant, located at the soil base. The crown supports and provides nutrients to the rest of the plant. When cutting, it’s very important not to disturb the crown, which sets the stage for the entire season and the plant’s ability to survive a variety of weather conditions, such as drought.

So when cutting, remember to cut high and cut often. It is best to leave your clippings for a healthy, strong turf.

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