Fall Turf Care

I have to admit......I am not a fan of turf. Mowing is an endless job.......we do we create this work for ourselves? I know, gotta have something covering the yard, right?

Your last mowing of the fall should be the shortest of the season, and here's why:

• long grass that lays over under snow, creates a good environment for snow mold and other turf diseases
• in the spring, the sun can warm up the soil quicker thru short rather than long turf (ever wonder why the neighbors grass is greener first?)
• spring raking, usually done before the first mow, is easier to do. The first raking should be gentle as to NOT rip up tender grass plants.

Fall fertilizing; Not being a turf fan, I am also never a fan of chemicals of any sort that are not necessary. If you use a mulching mower, you should never need to fertilize. The clippings will decay and provide the needed nutrients over time. If you must, then use a winterizer this time of year. Low or no 'N' (nitrogen). Check the bags for info and apply at recommended or less rates. Really, why do we want to make grass grow faster....do your really want to mow more often?