Fall is finally here! After a hot and dry summer, I am sure we are all looking forward to some relief from the extreme heat. Over the past couple of months, I have noticed that many lawns have suffered due to the excessive heat and lack of moisture. I have also seen this in my non-irrigated Bermuda lawn as well.

Fall is the perfect time to give your lawn a head start for the spring and summer growing seasons. One of the most important components of lawn maintenance is choosing the correct fertilizer. The best way to determine the levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) your lawn requires is by soil testing.

Fall is also an ideal time to apply lime if recommended by your soil test. Potassium can aid in improving a lawn’s ability to tolerate environmental stresses, including cold temperatures and disease, when applied according to soil-test recommendations. There is generally no need to apply nitrogen fertilizer to warm-season grasses as they begin to slow their growth in the fall. Nitrogen applications are best timed for periods when the grass is actively growing.

Additionally, winter weeds will be emerging soon! Applying a pre-emergence herbicide in the fall can help prevent many winter annual weeds from becoming established in your lawn. Both granular and liquid products are available. Always read and follow the product label carefully, and make sure the herbicide is appropriate for your particular type of grass.

Keep in mind that warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda and Zoysia, will begin to slow down as temperatures become cooler. Continue mowing at the recommended height for your particular grass. As temperatures cool and grass growth slows, reduce the frequency of irrigation while continuing to monitor your lawn for drought stress.

A little fall maintenance goes a long way toward helping your lawn enter winter in good condition and be ready for a healthy start in the spring.

For questions about fall lawn care, please call me at 901-752-1207. Enjoy fall and happy gardening!