| Really green grass is the result of regular maintenance; mowing regularly, watering deeply but infrequently, and feeding four times a year. Deep watering will encourage the lawn to produce a deep root system, which will enable it to survive for longer periods between waterings. Deep watering can be achieved by cyclic watering. This involves watering your lawn until run-off occurs (10-30 minutes) and then moving the sprinkler. When all the lawn has been watered, repeat the process to force the water deeper into the soil. The number of days between waterings depends upon weather conditions. In mid-summer lawns may need watering twice a week. Your lawn needs watering if it shows a slight colour change (bluish tinge) or footprints are still visible a few minutes after walking on it. If your lawn is green and healthy looking then it probably does not need watering. Lawns should be mowed regularly, but don't remove more than one-third of the growth in any one mowing (you'll scalp the lawn and the plants may die out). Mow as often as necessary to keep the lawn 1 1/2 to 2" high. Feed your lawn with a 3-1-2 ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium apply one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, divided into 3-4 applications throughout the growing season. I fertilize my lawn in April, June, September and late November or early December. This provides a constant source of nutrients and keeps the lawn healthy and green. Finally, a thick, healthy lawn will crowd out weeds and prevent weed seeds from germinating. So, regular lawn care will reward you with a lush carpet of green and reduce the number of weeds you'll need to pull. What a great concept! Enjoy your lawn! |
