KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – LATE AUGUST LAWN CARE

KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – LATE AUGUST LAWN CARE

Chicago has been experiencing the most wonderful summer in years. Although we haven’t had the horrible heat we are still in that end of the summer time that can be hard on the lawn. It is even more important than ever to stick to long deep soakings of the lawn and garden.

Earlier in the summer we were getting plentiful rains and in some areas too much but around our area lately rainfall has been low. It is important that lawn and garden get a minimum of one inch per week. Put out a can while watering till you reach one inch. Water after mowing remember no shorter than three inches especially when stressed.

Do not water every day! This causes shallow roots and unhealthy grass. It is also a good idea to mulch around plants and trees to conserve water. Compost hardwood chips leaves or peat mosses are all good choices. Along with summer heat normal use can take its toll on your lawn. A good pick-me up is a dose of fertilizer and topsoil.

Mix 1 part humus 1 part manure with 2 parts topsoil. Spread all over the lawn and lightly rake it in. Give the lawn a good water. If the lawn needs a bigger boost mix in a pound of grass seed with the mix. You can also use this mix to fill in bare spots. Add more grass seed and keep it moist!!! Most grass seed will germinate in 7 – 21 days. It must be kept moist until the grass is a least 2 inches.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO