Scolding Lawn
The recent stresses caused by widespread heat continue to create havoc throughout lawns in our area. Temperatures are expected to cool down this week, and September is right around the corner….so hopefully there is some relief on the way. In addition to the heat, we have had excess moisture adding stress to the lawns as well. High volume rain/thunder storms followed by bright, sunny, hot days has created fungus and scalding problems on the lawns. And if that’s not enough, we have seen a tremendous amount of Crabgrass taking over the lawns. Even lawns that had “crabgrass prevention” applied to them are seeing an outbreak of this obnoxious weed. Stressed out lawns, with an abundance of heat has just created a great growing environment for crabgrass.
I am frequently asked “Why do I see crabgrass growing along the curbs and my walkway.” Even though those walkway and curb areas received pre-emergent herbicides in the early spring, the hardscape (curbs and walkways) are typically built from concrete based products and are dark in color. These areas radiate a tremendous amount of heat AND increase the soil temperatures, making it difficult to keep those areas hydrated. The grass plants in those areas get stressed and start to go dormant and the increase soil temps are perfect for crabgrass to grow in….so they do.
The FALL is by far the best time to work on repairing your lawn. In some instances it’s as simple as raking out the damaged areas, top dressing them with a little compost and grass seed and water, water, water. Your lawn will be back to normal in no time !!
