Easy Steps to Fall Lawn Renovation

Did you know that fall is the best time of the year to make your old lawn look better than ever or to establish a new lawn? Early to mid-fall is a great time to take on the important job of a fall lawn renovation. The soil is still warm and yet the air is cool; the perfect combination for grass seeds to germinate and turf to take root quickly.

Here are some simple tips to renovate your lawn.

Seeding or Overseeding an Existing Lawn

If you are planning to seed a new lawn or overseed an existing lawn, it is best to seed as early as possible. It is important to get seed germinated and growing before trees begin to leaf out. This is especially true in shaded areas. Keep the area moist at all times until the roots become established, then you can gradually decrease the frequency of watering. The new grass can be mowed when it reaches a height of about three inches.

Rejuvenating a Weak Lawn

Your lawn cannot live without air, water and nutrients. When a thick layer of thatch builds up, water and fertilizer may run off instead of penetrating the soil. Aerating and dethatching can help rejuvenate a lawn by restoring passageways to the soil. Fall is an excellent time to dethatch your grass. Thatching rakes can be used but for lawns with severe thatch problems or if you have heavy or compacted soil, aerate the soil and add LeafGro.

Test your soil to determine the pH. We recommend a small handful of soil to a depth of 3 inches. At a pH of 6.8 to 7.0, nutrients are most readily available to turf grasses, and beneficial microorganisms are more active to decompose thatch.

Fertilize with Seed Starter Fertilizer and top dress with straw.

Last, keep the seed moist until it is established, usually with several light waterings throughout the day. After your new lawn is established, it should receive about one inch of water per week in the absence of rain.

A lush, healthy lawn is a joy to see year round and especially in months when not much else is growing. A few important steps taken now will make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood and make your spring lawn care even easier.

Have questions? Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to help you out with your fall lawn renovation! Stop by and see us or give us a call at 301-218-4769.

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