SUMMER 2003 ONLINE NEWSLETTER

Rain + Rain + Rain = Weeds + Fungus + Tall Grass

As with all things, too much of a good thing is not always better. Following last season’s severe drought, the rain was certainly welcome. However, we have gotten to the point where it has become counterproductive.

We have noticed a dramatic increase in the broadleaf weed population. Not only has the rain germinated more seeds than normal, but the cool temperatures have kept the winter annual weeds around longer. Unfortunately, we cannot prevent the weeds from germinating. We can only treat them as they appear.

Overcast skies, rain, and high humidity create the ideal breeding ground for many turf grass diseases. We have encountered leaf spot, red thread and dollar spot this season. Fortunately, the damage caused by these diseases has been temporary since the growth rate of the grass has been good. Recovery has been fairly quick in most cases.

With rain being an almost daily occurrence, its been hard not to mow tall wet grass. This may cause the clumping of clippings which in extreme cases could result in suffocation and turf grass death. Take care not to allow heavy clippings to lie. Hopefully this situation will be slowing up with the start of summer. Try to follow these simple rules when mowing:

• Mowing height should be 3 - 3 1/2 inches

• Mow during the coolest part of the day

• Always mow with a sharp mower blade

• Mow only if necessary

Summer Flowers

When cutting flowers to enjoy in arrangements, cut first thing in the morning while the petals are still full of moisture. Put in a vase of water in a cool place until you are ready to do your arrangement.

• When cutting flowers to dry, cut in the middle of the day after the dew has dried. Tie the stems together and hang upside down.
• The color stays brighter if dried away from direct sunlight.
• Adding a cube of sugar and a penny to your vase of water helps extend the life of cut flowers.
• After flowers have been cut a day or so, spraying with hairspray helps hold blossoms.

Grubs

Now is the time to be on the lookout for the beetles that produce the grubs. We have seen high populations of grubs over the past 3 years. Hopefully last season’s drought helped to cut down the numbers. However … this season’s rain will surely cause the grub population to soar. If grubs are treated now, a full season of control can be expected. If you are not already scheduled for the grub control treatment and you would like to do so, just give us a call at 301-831-3731 to get set up.

Aeration and Seeding

Its time to start planning for fall services on your lawn such as aeration and seeding. Aeration is very beneficial to your turf by allowing more air, water, and nutrients to get to the roots of your plants. This makes them stronger and healthier. Aeration also helps break up heavy clay-based soils and reduces thatch build-up. Fall is the best time to over seed your lawn. Over seeding will help fill-in thin areas of the lawn. It will also help introduce different varieties of desirable turf grass into your lawn. If you would like additional information, please contact us.

Remember - the proper mowing height is 3 - 3 1/2 inches.