Florida Turf Talk Fall 2024 with GreenUP by Massey Services
Florida Turf Talk
FALL LAWN AND LANDSCAPE
Your lawn and landscape change each season and are affected by various challenges such as weeds, insects and diseases. GreenUP Turf Talk provides helpful tips and information about your lawn and landscape, as well as advice from our landscape experts.
TURF
With the arrival of fall, warm season grasses will slow in growth but will continue to thrive as temperatures are still favorable for plants. Shorter days and reduced temperatures will reduce the stress to turf brought on by the harsh conditions of summer. Regular mowing at the proper height for your turf type is still crucial throughout the season. Click here for additional mowing tips and proper mowing practices for most grass types.
Fertilizer restrictions in most of Florida ended on September 30th, so we will be applying a slow-release fertilizer containing Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P) during your next scheduled service. This treatment will provide the necessary nutrients to the roots of your lawn over time, and you should see your lawn start to revitalize after the hot summer months.
If you live in an area that has an ongoing fertilizer ordinance, we will continue providing the nutrition your landscape needs with our proprietary blend of potassium and micro-nutrients.
FALL WEEDS, PESTS & DISEASES
Your lawn was treated with pre-emergent herbicide to stop weeds that germinate in the fall from surviving, but some weeds will still make it through the pre-emergent barrier. Those weeds will be spot treated with post-emergent applications. Additionally, broadleaf weeds and sedge growth will slow down in cool weather. These issues can be reduced and controlled through treatments provided during your regular service. Healthy turf is the best weed control, which is why our focus remains on proper nutrition throughout the year.
As humidity and temperatures decrease in the fall and winter, Large Patch fungus will appear due to its preference for fall conditions. During your service, your technician will apply a fungicide treatment if Large Patch is identified in your lawn.
Insect activity will decrease with the cooler temperatures, particularly caterpillars like tropical sod webworms.
WATERING NEEDS
Proper watering of your lawn will remain important for quality turf. As fall days become shorter and temperatures become more moderate, demand for water will decrease slowly through winter. Continue to water twice a week as needed until November. After Daylight Saving Time ends, you’ll only need to water once a week in the absence of rainfall. Many counties in Florida require this reduction in watering, but you should reference your county’s water management website for additional information. Watering once a week is generally sufficient, but spot hand watering of dry areas may be needed. Proper irrigation is critical for your lawn’s health. Click here for more irrigation tips. Remember, too much water can lead to a variety of turf diseases and weeds, while not watering enough can lead to lawn damage.
OUR COMMITMENT TO TOTAL CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
If you see an issue in your lawn and landscape, don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment. Contact our Customer Care Team today and schedule a service now so we can address it – at no additional cost to you!