 |
|||||
 |
|
||||
|
|
|||||
BARE SPOTS
Small bare areas should be thoroughly worked up with a spade or rototill to a depth of 3” to 4”. Don’t overwork the soil. It should
be loose & pebbly. If a soil contamination problem (such as
gasoline or fertilizer spill) is suspected, replace the soil in the
bare area to be reseeded. Don’t seed these small bare areas
excessively. Too much seed can result in seedlings that are weak & spindly because of
overcrowding.
OVERSEEDING
Scattering new seed over an old turf without some effort to properly seat it, is not an efficient way to establish grass.
COMPLETE RENOVATION
Lawns that are 50% or more weeds, or that contain coarse undesirable types of grass, require a total-kill herbicide as the
first step in the total renovation process. These types of
chemicals have a low level of toxicity, are nonvolatile, & there is
no residue. Follow the manufacturers’ recommendations exactly.
Once the herbicide has had sufficient time to do its job, follow the steps listed above for
regular renovation. Since the old vegetation has been killed back chemically,
scarification can be thorough & deep.
CORE AERIFICATION
This procedure can be used on heavy soils, especially ones that have become compacted. This can be done on established
lawns or in combination with the overseeding techniques
mentioned above. The best aerifying machines have hollow
tines which pull plugs of soil & thatch out of the holes being
made. This opens up the soil to permit free movement of water, fertilizer & air.
Core cultivation relieves soil compaction & gives grass roots room to grow.
