IN SEARCH OF THE MILLION DOLLAR LAWN

I am a homeowner, just like most of you, and I am always a little green with envy when I drive by "the lawn".  You know the one that looks like it belongs in the pages of some home and garden magazine.  Truth-be-told it was not always that way.  Lots of somebodies had to help it get that way and it was not that way in a day.

So like most of you I did a little research to get some experts to help me see green when I look out my window each morning and below are a few tips that may just help you.

Ah, Spring!  Spring is the time when your lawn needs the most attention, especially after a harsh winter.  What you do now will determine how healthy your lawn will look for several months.

Spring Feeding: Like a bear after a long hibernation your grass is hungry.  According to the University of Connecticut's Home & Garden Education Center, "you should wait until the grass is actually growing before you start to fertilize it."  The logic behind this is simple; the roots have stored enough carbohydrates from last fall to facilitate early spring growth.  The rule of thumb (green of course) is fertilizer tends to be more useful after the plant has exhausted it owns resources.

Spring Watering: First, test your soil for its water content by digging into the soil with a screwdriver.  If the tool goes in with relative ease, then your lawn is not in need of watering.  

If you live in an area with regular rainfall, your lawn is best served by not turning on the sprinkler system.  Over watering drowns the roots and promotes weed growth.  

The best time to water during the spring is when your grass shows signs of starting to wilt.  It is then that plants grow more and deeper roots are established to help sustain the lawn during dry spells.

Spring Over seeding:  What is over seeding?  It is the process of replenishing grass by scattering grass seeds over a lawn.  Spring is the ideal time to over seed.  

If you are uncertain about over seeding, consult your lawn and garden supplier or service for advice and recommendations.

Spring Pests and Weeds: Warmer weather promotes earthworms, and other bugs to move towards the upper layer of soil.  Moles can return as well.  Moles attack and damage the root systems of lawns in their quest for worms and other food.  

Weeds, like crabgrass, start to grow during late spring and emerge fully during summer, but you can eliminate their presence.  Consult your local lawn and garden supplier for the proper products to use in your locale.

Spring Dethatching and Aeration: Its time to remove fallen branches, twigs and leaves that cover your lawn.  Use a leaf rake and similar tools to clean up the old debris to pave the way for easier application of fertilizer and herbicides.

Aerate the soil on a day when the soil is still slightly damp.  This will allow oxygen, water and nutrients to feed the roots and promote healthy lawn growth.

Spring is a time of new growth.  You can have that million dollar lawn you always wanted by giving attention to the details mentioned above.  Use your "green thumb" to create your dream lawn.