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Create a Great Lawn

SOIL CONDITIONS
Compacted soil and heavy thatch are two big obstacles we face in our area. They tend to suffocate grass plants by preventing air, water, and other nutrients from reaching the root zone. This means your lawn looks less than satisfactory in spite of a sound fertilization and weed control program, water, and tender loving care.

Core aeration opens up the thatch and helps relieve compaction. We strongly recommend core aeration for warm season grasses every spring (after scalping) and aeration and over seeding for Fescue in the fall.

The clay soils in our area are very acidic. Soil pH can influence a plant’s growth by preventing organic matter from breaking down and ties up nutrients, particularly nitrogen. Limestone corrects soil acidity and supplies calcium and magnesium nutrients needed by the plant. Liming on a yearly basis is a must for lawns in our area and is included in every When Nature Calls lawn care program.

“Growth Zones"

Of all the things that build a healthy, thick lawn, core cultivation is second only to fertilizing. Core cultivation (also known as aeration) reduces thatch in your lawn while it opens the way for air, water and fertilizer to reach the root zone of the turf. Aeration is the “secret” to making everything else done on your lawn work even better.

Keep Thatch Under Control
Thatch is the layer of dead and living stems, blades and roots that builds up on any well-maintained lawn. A small amount of thatch is a good thing, but when it gets over about a 1/2'' it becomes a problem. Thatch harbors insects and is a breeding place for disease, too. Aeration removes thousands of plugs of soil from your lawn and deposits them above the thatch. As the plugs begin to “melt” back into the lawn, the soil mixes with the thatch and speeds up the natural process of decomposition. By aerating regularly, thatch is managed and seldom becomes a serious (and expensive) problem. Everyone loves a free meal.

Free food always brings in a crowd. It’s true of your lawn too. The growth pockets that are created when aeration cores are removed put food and water in easy reach of the turf roots. The root system of the lawn actually grows toward these pockets and becomes deeper and stronger. Better roots mean a thicker and healthier lawn.

‘Softer’ Soil
Heavy clay soils become very compacted over time. Clay soil particles are small and tightly packed with little space between for water, air and root movement. We’ve all felt this kind of “hard” soil underfoot, and turf has a tough time growing deep roots when it has to fight so hard for room to grow. Core cultivation allows the soil to “relax” or expand which means roots can penetrate deeper and further. Over a period of time, this results in soil that is softer and more open. Aeration or core cultivation is one of the best things you can do to improve and grow your lawn. Call Spring-Green with any questions about aeration or any other cultural practices.

Remember:

• Core cultivation helps keep thatch under control, which reduces the need for expensive renovation.

• Growth zones capture air, water and fertilizer, putting “dinner” within easy reach of the turf roots.

• Soil compaction forces lawns to thin. Aeration helps open the soil for better growth.