Today, a gentle steady rain. Peaceful.
Last month, as we approached the 4th of July holiday, we anticipated drier warmer weather. Well, as the spigot was turned off, so was the heat lamp turned on. 90-95 degree heat quickly caused browning of the fine bladed, cool weather grasses (Annual Bluegrass & Fine Fescues).
Shallow soils with rock or sand (in combination with the heat) also stressed out many lawns. After 17 days of heat, we were suddenly experiencing a monsoon – 5-7″ of rain in 5 days. Flash floods, violent thunder and lightning quickly charged the dry cracked soils. In April we were 2″ below normal rainfall; now we are 14-16″ above normal. July was not a peaceful weather month.
LAWN CARE
Brown Spots: Though the lawns have “greened” back up, the previous heat and disease activity resulted in damaged spots. Continued rain will help some grass to recover; others may require seeding this fall. Power seeding this fall will help introduce better grass varieties.
Weeds: Extreme weather will affect good weed control. The Crabgrass barrier has been compromised by the heavy rains, disease activity, and heat stress. The same can be said for Japanese Stiltgrass in the shade. The best solution at this time is to have those areas Power Seeded this September. As the crabgrass/Stiltgrass dies this fall, newly planted seed will fill in the thin areas and replace the crabgrass. Call now if you would like an estimate for guaranteed Power Seeding.
Mowing: Continue to mow high at 3-4 inches, when it’s dry. Evening is best.
Aeration: All this rain has compacted our soils; this limits root tillering in the fall. Core Aeration (mechanically plugging the soil) this fall will significantly improve the vitality and strength of your lawn. Aeration also helps incorporate lime and phosphorous down into the soil. Call now to schedule your lawn for Core Aeration.
PLANT CARE
Many plants have been affected by the extreme weather patterns. I have seen many evergreens succumb to foliar disease and root rot. Crape Myrtles and Butterfly bushes are still recovering from the cold, dry winter. Avoid fall pruning on these plants.
This is the month to dig up and split your daffodil bulbs; store in a dry place for later October planting. Locate and mark daylilies and hostas that you want to also split in September. These plants will need to be replanted within a week. Splitting your bulbs and lilies will give you better flower power next year. Don’t forget to share your “extras” with neighbors and friends.
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Recipe from Angel : Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 5 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup quality parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian spices
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- In a baking dish, arrange zucchini, yellow squash and tomatoes in an alternating pattern.
- Top with cheese and spices. Place into oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until squash is soft. Enjoy!
If you see something out of the ordinary, please feel free to contact us for advice. That’s what we are here for!
Please contact us if you have topics you would like to discuss in future newsletters. Email me at group187@lawndoctor.com
Thank you for your business.
Tony Richardson
Lawn Doctor
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