The fall is when your lawn naturally begins to prepare itself for colder temperatures. During this time of year, grass is busily absorbing energy, moisture, and nutrients in preparation for a long, dormant winter. Give it a little attention now, and you'll be rewarded with a lush, healthy spring lawn. Time To Fertilize Autumn is the most crucial time to fertilize your lawn. It is during the cool days of fall that the grass plant slows its top growth and begins storing nutrients and sugars for the harsh months ahead. The storing process continues for as long as the plant is green. A fall fertilization is critical-this is the time when the plant is building reserves to maintain its health and thus determines the quality of next summer's lawn. Nitrogen and Potassium are essential parts of this process. Once the summer's rations are used up, the grass plant is ready for another feeding in the fall to increase root growth and fill them with food. These nutrients are also extremely beneficial in increasing the plant's resistance to damaging diseases, which will often attack when the plant is in a weakened state. So if you only fertilize your lawn once a year then the fall is the best time to do so. Aeration The benefits of fall aeration to the grass plant cannot be stressed enough. This work reduces soil compaction, excessive thatch, and provides a top dressing for the lawn. By breaking up compaction and removing excess thatch, the infiltration of fertilizer nutrients, sunlight and air down into the soil is greatly improved. With this improved movement of needed elements, root growth is stimulated and extensive growth of stunted root systems occurs. By greatly improving root growth, the grass plant can reach and store more nutrients and water necessary to improve its health and stress tolerance, which will directly benefit the lawn's quality next summer. A simple way to aerate your lawn and get some exercise at the same time is to use "Hollow Tine Aerator". They're inexpensive and they are very effective in punching holes and it relieves compaction of your soil. Adjust Your Moving Height When the cool weather of Autumn arrives, raise your mowing height to one half inch above the recommended height for the summer months. This will help stimulate stunted roots. For the final mowing of the year, lower your mowing height to one half inch below the standard summer mowing height. This will help the foliage prepare for winter and avoid damage from disease. As well, the clippings from the final mowing should be left on the lawn as mulch only if a mulching mower can be used. This will protect the delicate crowns of the grass plants, and provide valuable nutrients for the lawn. Summary Spring time is a great time of year when you can go back outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Nothing is more pleasing to the eyes than a beautiful green lawn! We highly recommend taking care of your investments by doing the little things that have a great impact on your home. If your schedule doesn't permit you to take care of your lawn this fall, contact us for a no obligation quote to get your lawn ready for the winter. We work with many satisfied property managers throughout the United States that seek our advise and to perform their landscape work.
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