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Green Earth Landscaping Newsletter

Fall 2011

Aeration

With cooler temperatures approaching, tall fescue lawns will slowly start to recover from the stresses that the hot summer weather has put on them. We will begin aerating and seeding in the middle of September to help expedite this healing process. Aeration involves two different types of equipment. First there is core aeration, which works best in moist soil and in tight spaces where a tractor mounted unit is unable to fit. A plug about 3 inches in length is pulled from the soil which helps to alleviate compaction and allows water, air and nutrients to reach the root zone of the grass. This type of aeration enables the soil to break up and refill the holes after a few weeks. The second type of aeration is with a tractor mounted unit called an aerovator. Aeration with an aerovator relieves compaction by shaking and shattering the soil profile to a depth of 3-4″ allowing more seed to soil contact – aiding in seed germination. Utilizing both processes helps to germinate seed in bare areas where the heat stress and poor soil chemistry has caused the existing grass to be depleted. There is a misconception that aeration can be used as a renovation process versus a cultural practice. Aeration should be done every year to help improve the soil structure as well as relieve compaction, in addition to any desired renovations.

Overseeding

The overseeding process has several phases but begins weeks before aeration of the property. In the weeks prior to aeration, we will begin cutting the turf shorter, allowing the seed to receive more light after the process is complete. One week before aeration, the watering schedule will be reduced in order to help dry out the soil. Dry soil will provide the best results when using the aerovator as well as give us the ability to water more often after the overseeding process is complete. The seed will require several short watering cycles per day to help keep the seed wet for quicker germination. During aeration, we will follow the aerators with a small tiller to till up areas that require additional TLC such as along curbs, driveways, etc…to ensure proper seed germination. Peat moss will also be used as a topdressing. Seed germination can take from 10-21 days. Before overseeding begins, flags will be used to mark all of the sprinkler heads throughout the property.

**In order to prevent damage to your irrigation system PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THE FLAGS**

Mowing Schedule after Aeration/Overseeding

Mowing will be delayed for several weeks after aeration and overseeding in an effort to help protect the new seedlings from damage caused by heavy mowing equipment. There is a risk of damaging the new seedlings by pulling them out of the ground, crushing them and not allowing them to root properly. Our goal is to resume mowing after the new seedlings reach a height between 3-4″ in length. We will do our best to resume mowing as soon as possible. Your patience is greatly appreciated.

Fall Flowers

Installation of new winter annuals will begin October 1st! If you have specific flower or color preferences, please let us know as soon as possible. For our properties that require fall annuals, be on the lookout for an email containing a selection of flower colors and ornamental planting options for you to choose from. We will begin pre-ordering the flowers in August for the October planting. As always, a member of our staff will be happy to meet with you to design a new and unique flower arrangement. Just give us a call to schedule your appointment.

In no time at all the cooler days of fall will be upon us as well as a fresh new growing season. All of us at Green Earth Landscaping, Inc. are looking forward to fresh, bright flowers and a great deal of green grass!