It’s almost that time of year again, when your lawn will start to show signs of stress brought on by heat, humidity, water and or insects. We will never have complete control over these environmental factors, but there are steps that you can take to try to improve the overall look and health of your lawn.
Proper Fertilization in the Summer
This summer, keep your lawn strong by fertilizing it with a Lawn Food plus Iron. Iron is a source of nitrogen which will help “green up” your lawn quickly. However, do not put out fertilizer when your lawn is already stressed by lack of water. Make sure your lawn is well watered before you put out a granular fertilizer and then make sure that the product is well watered into the soil after the application. Follow the directions on the bag of the product that you choose, so that you do not over apply the product and burn your grass.
Stopping Weeds the Easy Way
If you have not already done so, apply a pre-emerge chemical, such as Hi-Yield’s “Turf and Ornamental Grass Stopper.” If the summer weeds in your lawn go to seed, they will drop all those seeds in the lawn, they will germinate and then produce new weeds. But applying “Turf and Ornamental Grass Stopper” two to three times a year can help you to achieve up to 80% control of weeds without having to spray an herbicide. Consistent application is crucial. You must keep up with the applications annually to achieve this type of control. (Want to learn more about all of our weed-control products? Click the link, here!)
Insect Control
Also consider applying a granular insecticide on your lawn to keep out grubs, mole crickets, armyworms, webworms, and fire ants. All these pesky insects can cause damage to the roots and blades of your grass. Two products you can use to control these insects are “Grub Free Zone” and “Bug Blaster” by Hi-Yield. You will need to water these products into the soil to ensure that they kill the desired pest. Follow the label for application rates and timing.
Regular Maintenance makes Lawncare Simple
And lastly, keep up with your regular lawn mowing and watering. Consistently cutting your grass at the appropriate height can also help to control weeds. Watering regularly will also help to keep your grass strong and ward off disease and insects. However, be careful not to overwater your lawn. With the amount of rain that we get here in Southeast Louisiana, be mindful that afternoon showers can often be enough to keep your lawn watered. I only recommend watering your lawn when applying a granular chemical, or if we are in an extended period of drought.
Written by John MacMillan
