Samantha Snyder
Extension Educator, Horticulture
OklahomaCountyOSU Cooperative Extension Service
930 N. Portland
OKC, OK 73107
405-713-1125
Sept 19, 2008
Best Yard on the Block
Work in the vegetable garden may be slowing down; but in September the lawn is a busy place. There are many things that can be done now to ensure a beautiful stand in the spring. The keys to healthy turf are proper maintenance and care. The following are some tips that will help create a yard that is the talk of the town.
If you have a warm season turf, like Bermuda, the last application of fertilizer should be applied by mid-September at the latest. Making this the last application will provide the grass time to slow down and begin the transition to dormancy at the natural time.
Applications made beyond mid-September cause warm season grasses to be more susceptible to Spring Dead Spot fungus. This fungus becomes more active as fall temperatures begin to set in. It is on the prowl for a grass that is putting on lush new growth, not one that is settling into winter dormancy. Late applications of fertilizer encourage the lawn to keep growing rather than beginning dormancy, making it the perfect target.
Winter broadleaf weeds will appear in late September as temperatures begin to cool. To control these weeds, like the dandelion, a 2, 4-D type herbicide can be applied. 2, 4-D is a postemergent product, which means that it will kill weeds that have already germinated and are currently a problem. To control winter-annual weeds like henbit, chickweed, and annual bluegrass before they become a problem a preemergent should be used by the second week in September. Preemergents create a barrier on the soil surface that inhibits these cool season weeds from germinating. Some common preemergent herbicides include Pendulum, Pre-M, and Barricade. It is important to read the product label and follow directions when using these products to get optimum results.
Mid to late September is the best time to establish cool season turf, such as Tall Fescue. Ifover seeding is planned, be careful not to apply any preemergents in the desired area. If applying seed to bare ground some type of cover should be used to prevent the seeds from blowing away or being relocated by water movement. This can be a type of straw or grass clippings; just try to use something that will not have a lot of unwanted weed seeds in it.
Damage from white grubs may also be apparent this month. This can appear as a large browning patch on the turf, which is the result of grubs feeding on the root system. Another sign of grubs is secondary damage caused by armadillos and other rodents. These animals are looking to snack on the grubs and they can quickly turn a lawn into a proverbial treasure hunting field. There are several products available at garden centers that control grubs. Timing is crucial when controlling grubs. Read the package thoroughly to ensure proper application.
These practices will help create a beautiful lawn for the homeowner and the neighborhood to enjoy. For more information on lawn care and establishment please feel free to contact the Oklahoma County OSU Master Gardeners at 405-713-1125.
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Picture Caption: Late applications of fertilizer may cause the lawn to exhibit Spring Dead Spot symptoms as seen on this Bermudagrass lawn.
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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating. The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.