Following up with Part 1 of Late Summer Turf Tips, add the following 6 tips to your to-dos in the coming weeks. Ensure a smooth transition out of summer and set up for a successful fall.
1. Core Aerate
You can start aerating as soon as August 1st on irrigated lawns, or as early as August 15th on non-irrigated ones. Core aeration is one of the best methods of alleviating soil compaction there is! Be sure to use hollow tines, as solid tines only perpetuate compaction problems, only at a deeper depth.
2. Over Seed
Take advantage of those aeration holes and introduce a new crop of turf. Late summer overseeding provides the best window for seedling germination and establishment. As a result, you get a more diverse and resilient turf stand year after year. Grass seed is your weed control!
3.Charge the Soil!
Apply PJC ProHealthy Turf CHARGE-S3 to prime your soil and turf for fall. Applying directly after aerating puts precious nutrients directly into the root zone. Therefore, priming the microbes for a long-term feed coming out of summer.
4. Fertilize
Apply PJC ProHealthy Turf Organic Fertilizers within a few weeks of Charge-S3 for best results (or simultaneously if you need to be efficient). This will provide balanced nutrition for soil microorganisms and your soon-to-be flourishing turf. We provide a wide range of fertilizers to make sure you achieve your annual fertility needs.
6. Apply Calcium
Calcium: an oft forgotten but essential macro nutrient. Calcium is integral to healthy turf plants and nutrient dense soils. Whether you are looking to increase a low pH, alleviate compaction chemically, chelate essential metal ions for plant uptake or increase cation exchange capacity—we have the product set for you! Use High Efficiency Lime, Gypsum or Boost+S3 respectively to achieve different calcium needs for your soil. Be sure to apply these before the ground freezes. October 15th is usually a safe closing window so this can be done with either late summer or fall applications!
7. Scout and Treat Grubs
Start scouting mid August – mid September. Cut three sides of a square turf section, about one square foot in size. Fold back the turf and examine the roots about 3 – 4” deep. Count the number of white grubs. Do this in at least 3 – 4 different spots around the lawn (typically sunny locations). A healthy stand of turf can withstand grub damage, however, if you find 7 or more per SF then treat with Cedar Cure. Remember you don’t need to treat the whole lawn. Only treat the border areas where you have found evidence of grubs, generally < 1,000 SF.
