March Outlook

CRANE FLY

There has already been some damage to lawns in February of this year. As the Crane Fly larvae are ‘cold blooded’, they will stay deeper in the soil when it is cold and come to the surface to feed when it is warmer. This is important as you will not get very good control of the larvae, applying on cold days. Also, it is better to put an insecticide on the lawn in the sunny part of the afternoon to improve control. Timing is 95% of a good responsible use of pesticides. Pets should be kept away from the lawn area until the product has completely penetrated the soil. A dog can walk on the lawn BUT when he walks on something hard, like concrete, he will want to lick his paws and this will NOT BE GOOD FOR HIM.

SEEDING AND OVERSEEDING

Over seeding in general helps tighten up the lawn and helps control weeds by being too tight for weeds to get a hold. This year is definitely earlier than most and my readings on soil temperature are in the low 50’s which means we are very close to the minimum soil temperatures. It would be best to not attempt seeding though on soils that remain soggy after a rain. Grass seeds won’t do too well in bog like conditions. Wait until it dry’s down some.

We are offering a locally developed patented seed for sun or sun/shade lawns called Natural Knit in 50# and 25# bags. It is a rye grass but it weaves itself (semi-stoloniferous) becoming dense. A few advantages: 1) It can be kept to ½” if so desired (looks like a putting green), 2) It is a darker green than most rye’s, 3) It is very dense, 4) It repairs itself, 5) You will use only 5 pounds (maximum) per 1,000 ft. sq. vs. 10# with any other rye, and 6) It does not develop thatch!!!!!

PREEMERGENT APPLICATION ON BEDS

Big Money saver IF done right and timing is the biggest factor. Right now is a very good time to do this. Hand weeding is very expensive and very time consuming.

LIME

The recommended rate is from 5# to 25# per 1,000 ft. sq., twice a year. Apply once in the spring and once in the fall. Both applications should be done when it is raining and the spring application accompanied with aeration would be fantastic. 

MOSS CONTROL

The old stand by = ferrous sulfate. Best to get this out of the way before re-seeding.

FERTILIZATION

March and April are the best times to get this initiated as this is typically when the roots start

growing and can absorb nutrients.

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