As we move through the last two months of 2018, we reflect on the stress our turf and its root system has endured over the past year. Now is the time for a few last efforts that will do much to help our lawns as we move through the fall season. We hope the following tips will be of help in your outdoor endeavors:

Fall Maintenance Tip #1 – Fertilization

Feeding your lawn in the fall and again in early winter is the most important of all tips. Fertilization at this time will help boost the photosynthesis rate of the turf, and build carbohydrate reserves in the plant to help lawns green up in the spring. Late season fertilization also helps to increase the lawn's winter hardiness and promotes deeper root growth, resulting in a healthier lawn next season.

Fall Maintenance Tip #2 - Leaves and debris

Keep your lawn clear of leaves and other debris. Leaves left on the lawn for extended periods can smother your grass and leave you with areas of dead turf. Excessive leaves left on the lawn can also cause an imbalance in your soil's Ph, making for more difficult growing conditions next year. Landscape areas also need to be kept clean. Excess leaf litter can be a source of unwanted insects. Keep those rakes and leaf blowers active!

Fall Maintenance Tip #3 - Mowing

When mowing, always set your highest settings, one that leaves at least a 3" blade. Leaving the grass blade taller helps promotes a deeper and stronger root. Cutting the grass too short will stress out the blade/roots and cause the grass to brown out and in some cases, die out. Make sure your mower blades are sharp, as a dull blade can tear the grass and lead to browning out and health issues with your turf.

Fall Maintenance Tip #4- pH Soil Testing

Fall is an excellent time to have a soil test performed. If the soil's pH needs adjusting, lime or sulfur/gypsum products can be applied to adjust the natural balance needed to grow healthy turf. Lawn Cure can provide this soil analysis service upon request. Please see the attached information for details!

Fall Maintenance Tip #5- Landscape pruning and fertilization

Final pruning of certain landscape plantings (i.e. knock out roses, ornamental grasses, etc.) can be done after freezing temperatures have been experienced. Your landscape's roots also reestablish themselves over the winter 'dormant' season. Call Lawn Cure today for information about our Landscape Deep Root Feeding program and receive 10% off the first service!

We wish you a warm and safe fall season!!