The earliest signs of spring are upon us. Temperatures are warming, birds are chirping, grass is greening up…and the earliest spring weeds are popping up, too! As soon as temperatures are warm enough, Green Horizon will be visiting your lawn to take note of how your lawn overwintered. We will pay attention to bare areas, new grass growing from aeration and overseeding in the fall, condition of your trees and shrubbery, and types and location of weeds in your lawn.
Did you know that you are more likely to grow weeds in areas where your lawn struggles: under shade trees, next to driveways and sidewalks where winter chemicals wash and where summer heat is magnified, potty areas for your pets, and areas of high traffic? Why is this? In these areas of sustained use and abuse, soil is compacted, grass is thin, nutrients may be out of balance, and conditions are just not ideal for grass to do well. Weeds, on the other hand, will grow anywhere and take advantage of areas with struggling grass.
WHAT: Our lawn care program first round of fertilizer delivers a higher nitrogen content to boost the roots and provides super nutrients at just the right time to help with the spring green up. In addition, a pre-emergent targeting spring weeds is included. This pre-emergent herbicide is a proactive approach to weed control and stops weeds, such as crabgrass, dandelions, and other annual weeds, before they take root and spread.
The chemical in pre-emergents doesn’t kill existing weeds but interferes with the growth of seeds that are already present in the soil. When the seeds attempt to germinate, the herbicide prevents them from sprouting. Unfortunately, new seeds will always be introduced to your lawn from outside sources such as animals, birds, and wind. New seeds which germinate during the summer will need post-emergent treatment.
WHY: By preventing weeds, pre-emergents give your grass a better chance to grow and thrive without competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Weeds can weaken grass and cause bare spots, so eliminating them helps keep your lawn lush and healthy.
In addition to preventing weeds, you minimize the need for post-emergent herbicides which tend to be less effective on established weeds, often requiring more chemicals and repeated applications, you’ll spend less time and effort maintaining your lawn, and gain a healthy and more uniform looking lawn!
TIPS: As a homeowner, please REFRAIN from adding additional fertilizers. Too much of a good thing can lead to a burned lawn which will require a full turf rehab come fall! Spring is also not the time to overseed bare areas, as the pre-emergents we use will prevent seed from germinating.
We’ve got your lawn fertilization and care needs covered this season! Contact us today to find out how we can help keep your lawn looking its best all season long!
