Spring into Action!

(Originally submitted to Cheryl's Notes 3-5-2008) Spring is almost here. We are still having freezing days followed by days with temperatures in the upper 70’s. The weather is just nuts this time of year. So…what can we do outside? It’s time to aerate your lawn. That’s what you should be doing if your lawn is healthy and gorgeous. But, wait!!!! What if your lawn is not even respectable? I think most of us have neglected our lawns at some point. Before going to a lot of expense in fighting with it, go back to the start. Get your soil tested. The results should give you what you will need to bring your lawn back to good health.

Where does one obtain soil tests? Check with your local Agriculture Extension Office, Conservation District Office (also known as NRCS) or Soil Conservation Service. They can be found in your local phone directory under your state’s Department of Agriculture listing.

Here is how you can get started: read this link from the Virginia Cooperative Extension site which clearly explains and shows you how to take soil samples (be in the know before you go to the next step http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/compost/452-129/submitting.html , phone your local extension or conservation office to obtain soil sample bags or boxes, collect your samples and submit them. When the results come back, you should have the amendments and amounts you need to mix into your lawn.

Once you have applied the necessary amendments, if you haven’t already, either aerate or lightly till the ground to break it up. Now, you are ready to spread your grass seed. Where do you find grass seed for your area? A quick visit to your local hardware store or garden center will prove beneficial here. The sales person will need to know if your yard area has lots of shade, is mostly sun, etc. in order to help you select the best blend for your yard. Measurements of your yard will be needed to know how much seed you will need. Before you leave with your grass seed, be sure to get planting and care instructions.

Sow your grass seed according to the information given to you. You may need to cover the area with a light layer of straw to help with germination. The straw will help to hide the seeds from hungry birds, heavy winds, washing away from rain, as well as, creating a cool, moist environment for the seeds to sprout. Once the seeds are sprouting, you can remove the straw. However, leaving it to decompose is good for your new lawn.

Now, you have grass sprouting, so how much and how often do you water it? Well, that is a relative question, although, you will grow healthier grass by watering deeper less frequently. Here is a helpful guide to watering your lawn and landscape.
http://www.wateruseitwisely.com/waterguide/index.shtml

Now you have the basics on how to build a healthy lawn. Get out there and “grow” it!!!

Until next time…….. Cheryl