VOLUME 8 ⚪ ISSUE NO. 17 ⚪ SEPTEMBER 4, 2024
IN THIS ISSUE
◻️ Planting
◻️ Watering
◻️ Pest Control
◻️Lime
Labor Day may be the “unofficial” end of summer, but there are still a few weeks before it is officially the autumn season. Instead of rushing into fall, there is still time to extend the summer as long as possible!
Below we will discuss some of the things that can be done in September while we still are enjoying pleasantly warm days and plenty of sunshine. ~Shayne
LATE-SUMMER PLANTING
Late-summer planting is a task that many homeowners don’t think about as the summer season draws to a close. When asked, most people think planting should be done in the spring, giving the plant all summer to grow. While that makes perfect sense, late-summer is a terrific time to get new plants into the ground!
Planting in late-summer actually extends the growing season by allowing plants to establish strong roots before the first hard frost, giving them a head start the following spring. It also helps to extend the current gardening season and keeps your landscape looking vibrant as most plants are beginning to die back. The warm soil, milder daytime temperatures along with cooler nights help roots grow strong with reduced chances of transplant shock. At this time of year there is also less soil evaporation, leaving more water in the ground for thirsty root systems. Weeds and pests are also less aggressive at this time of year.
This is also the time to walk around your property to plan ahead for next year’s growing season. Do any plants need to be removed or transplanted to another location? Let your landscape consultant know if you have any questions or would like to schedule planting services.
LATE-SUMMER WATERING
Watering is still critical for plant health at this time and should not be stopped just because “summer is over.” Instead, the schedule should be adjusted at this time. As daily temperatures begin to cool, the frequency and duration of watering should be reduced to aim for around one inch a week to encourage deeper root growth and assist your lawn in becoming more drought tolerant.
Just like in the height of summer, aim for a good soaking of the ground to make sure water is reaching the roots. Watering early in the day reduces evaporation and allows plants to take in this moisture before the day heats up. This also decreases the likelihood of water remaining on plants and inviting fungal diseases.
A smart irrigation system is controlled by a smartphone and takes all the guesswork out of properly watering your lawn and garden beds by breaking them into zones. It takes into account location, local temperatures and the daily forecast. In fact, they are so smart they support local water restrictions in time of drought, identify zones that need attention, will adjust for rain and wind, and disables itself during freezing weather – all while conserving precious water.
PEST & DISEASE CONTROL
If your lawn is being dug up by skunks, has increased bird activity, or has irregular brown patches, you may have grubs! While some grubs in the turf are normal, if you peel back a section of turf and see more than 10 grubs per square foot, (above) it’s time to treat them. At this time of the year, they are newly hatched and very vulnerable.
Late summer is also the time of year when pests and diseases can linger. By cleaning up unnecessary garden debris, removing diseased plants, and increasing air circulation, you can help prevent any serious problems and deter their spread.
Powdery mildew (below) is the most common fungal disease affecting a wide variety of garden plants including trees and flowers. It is a white or grayish powdery growth on leaves, stems and sometimes the fruit of an infected plant. It can hinder photosynthesis causing leaves to yellow and drop prematurely but doesn’t always kill the plant. Snip infected leaves and stems with clean tools and discard the debris so it will not affect other plants.
If you are concerned about pests or diseases in your turf or on your plants, please let your landscape consultant know as soon as possible.
“The morning had dawned clear and cold, with a crispness that hinted at the end of summer.”
George R. R. Martin
LIME APPLICATION
Lime is essential in helping to neutralize acidic soil and raise pH levels. It is composed mostly of calcium carbonate and comes pulverized, powdered, or pelletized. While helping to adjust pH levels, it aids your grass in absorbing important nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium more effectively while promoting healthier and more robust grass growth.
If your turf is yellowing, has weed infestations, a lot of unwanted moss, stunted growth or wilting blades, your soil should be tested so appropriate corrective measures can be taken.
In our area, with cool-season grasses, lime application is performed in late-summer and fall. It is applied evenly across your lawn using a broadcast spreader and then watered thoroughly to assist it in penetrating down into the soil to reach grass roots.
Regular soil testing should be done every few years to determine the needs of your lawn.
