Lawn Maintenance

[heyttown]

Ok folks...the grass growing season is here in full swing for 3 weeks or so now..Problem is my front yard isnt growing.I can see lots of dead grass which I figured was from a few years of not dethatching(sp?).I was planning on renting a dethatch machine today,but when I went to further investigate the problem I realize I can pull up the sod green, and dead grass included...You guessed it....I have a grub problem I opened an area the size of a basketball and found 3 grubs all various sizes.<br /><br />My dilema is Im guessing 70% of the yard is like this...My front yard is probably 40x30 which isnt to big after you add the sidewalk, and walk up to the porch....<br /><br />Im wondering if I should just get a sod cutter and completly redo the front yard.<br /><br />Of course treating the grub problem first.<br />Or should I just leave it alone,put some grub killer down and see how it goes after that?<br /><br />Again I was pulling up brown and green grass,so those little buggers are eating alot.<br />Just not sure of the best way to get rid of them, and what route to do after I treat them..<br /><br />Im thinking all new grass as this yard is mixed with some things that purple flower things(sorry im no greenthumb) that are growing in various areas of the yard,not to mention some crabgrass type stuff that looks like it doesnt belong there.<br /><br />In the end I want one of those plush green yard that make the neighbors envious,not the yard they look at and say they are glad its not my yard....lol<br /><br />Any help is appreciated

 

[deputydawg]

Re: Lawn Maintenance

If it is like around here I would suggest treating the grubs, then in a week or so follow up with a weed and feed treatment. This should get rid of the little purple things. If not try a broadleaf herbicide and treat only the effected area. After that re-seed the dead spots. Or seed the whole yard with a warmer season grass that will come in later.<br /><br />Unless you really want the expense of new sod you should be able to save the grass you already have established as it is still early in the year. Check with your local lawn companies and see if any of them is licensed for chemical application. They usually work fairly reasonable and will be able to get the good chemicals and get things going for you.

 

[Pony]

Re: Lawn Maintenance

I think the key is continued maintainence....<br /><br />For example, its a good idea to put down the "fall" mix before winter to kee the purple flowers and crab grass and dandelions from becoming so abundant in spring. <br /><br />I think resodding would be almost ridiculous. If it were my yard, I would thatch the yard, and would apply some crab grass killer/preventative, plant some grass seed in the empty spots after the thatching, and then a few weeks later put down some scotts weed n feed. To me scotts is worth the extra $. Then in fall put down the special "fall" stuff they have. My thinking is once you get the grass lush and green its just a matter of keeping up with the weed n feed each spring and fall.

 

[heyttown]

Re: Lawn Maintenance

Thanks for the info...<br />I will be the first to admit the yard hasnt been very high on my list of things to do...Other then cut it of course.<br /><br />Do I deal with the grub problem first before I deal with dethatching the yard?

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Lawn Maintenance

Treat the grubs or at least put down a hearty dose of diazanon.There are many grub treatments available including a non toxic type.THEN tear it up and take the pickup to Home depot and you will have a beautiful lawn THAT day.Nothing like instant gratification.You dont want to hear the wife tell you she would be glad to have sex with you "next month" would you???

 

[ztim]

Re: Lawn Maintenance

Kill grubs, test soil, and plant seeds. A combo of fertiliser and insecticide can be used. Remember though there is a time limit on some of these up to about three weeks. Check out the internet.

 

[tomatolord]

Re: Lawn Maintenance

Heytown where do you live?<br /><br />There are two basic types of grasses<br /><br />Warm weather - it turns brown in the winter<br />Cool weather - It turns brown in the summer (lack of water)<br /><br />If you want the easy fix now - kill the grubs - kill the grass re sod. <br /><br />The basic fertilizer treatment for lawns is <br />Valentines day - fertilizer with weed control<br />After summer heat breaks - fertilize again.<br />Thanksgiving - last time for winter<br /><br />This schedule will keep your lawn green and thick.<br /><br />Now post back where you live and what grass you have and I will tell you how to do put in a wonderful lawn!<br /><br />Tomatolord