According to the Sports Field Management Association there are benefits to using natural grass for turf, such as improved air quality, stormwater management, and as a pollution filter. We know from experience that the healthier the turf is, the more benefits you experience from it.
The late winter and early spring are crucial for the care and maintenance of turf. This time is coming fast! Here are some things you can do to prepare the turf:
Check the Soil State
Before you determine how to prepare your turf or even what products to apply, you need to determine the condition of your turf! First, see if there is any obvious damage to the grass, such as dry spots, weeds, or fungus.
Check on the general state of the soil. A soil analysis test may be necessary here, which will help you determine if you are lacking certain nutrients. Check on the moisture level of the ground too.
Fertilize
You may determine that your soil needs additional nutrients. Apply fertilizer about three weeks after grass starts greening. You’ll want to ensure the grass, not the weeds, get the applied nutrients. Depending on restrictions in your area, you may want to apply phosphorous at this time to give seeds an early boost.
Prepare Soil and Turf
Prepare your lawn for the season with a few basic steps. First, mow the grass to a manageable height, making sure not to cut more than 1/3 of the grass blade at one time. Then, dethatch the turf to remove excess debris so you can begin your work. Aerate the soil to help with root growth and absorption of water and nutrients. Deal with bare spots or thinning grass by top seeding, especially in high-traffic areas. Once your soil is set up, you can move onto other issues.
Check Irrigation System
You’ll need your irrigation system to be in working order in spring, so run through all the steps as needed. Test the lines and address any issues now before you get into the full swing of the season. That includes testing for leaks, and making sure irrigation heads are clean and working properly. Make sure irrigation heads are set to the proper height and are spraying water where it needs to go, not onto sidewalks or roads or into the sides of trees.
Follow these basic tips to set your turf up for success in spring. If you want more guidance or have specific questions, our team of experts is always on call to assist. Contact your regional technical manager to find out more.
Recommended Products:
- Hydretain: helps retain moisture in the soil and reduce watering needs
- CytoGro: promotes deeper, denser roots and speeds grow-in
- EnviroPlex: improves nutrient availability and uptake with high-concentration carbon
- TurfPlex: increase turf vigor and apply phosphorous where needed