This is the time of year that the lawns get beat up. The heat is setting in, water is scarce and the bugs are living well. Now is the time to apply grub control products and fertilize before the temperature gets too hot. Here’s some tips for helping your lawn through the long, hot summer.
Mow the grass at the proper time and at the proper height. One of the big rules of thumb for this time of year is to never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf blade at a time. Common Bermuda grass likes to be mowed often (3 – 7 day) at a height of 1.5 inches. St. Augustine requires less mowing (5 – 7 days) and likes to be cut at 2.5 inches. As the growth of the grass slows, so should the mowing frequency. Fertilizer should be applied before July 10th.
Apply pest control products now. Bermuda mite and chinch bug season is fast approaching. The insecticide Cyonara can be the cure for both. Cyonara’s active ingredient is Lambda-Cyhalothrin and is labeled for both critters as well as fleas and chiggers. The all-natural alternative is Yard Safe by the folks at CederCide. Both come in a hose-end quart and are under $20.00. July is also prime time to get that synthetic grub control applied.
Proper watering is key to a healthy lawn. Knowing when your lawn needs water and how much water it needs goes a long way toward keeping the lawn healthy and conserving natural resources. With the water restrictions currently in place, make sure you are watering efficiently on your scheduled day. Not sure when to water in your area? Click here for a area water restrictions.