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What to Do After Aeration and Overseeding: Your Lawn Care Guide Congratulations on taking the first step towards a healthier, more vibrant lawn with aeration and overseeding. Now that you've invested in your lawn's future, it's important to follow through with the right care and maintenance. Here's a tailored guide for those who've recently had their lawn aerated and overseeded: Why Aeration and Overseeding? Before we dive into the aftercare, let's briefly revisit why aeration and overseeding are essential: Enhanced Grass Growth: Aeration allows your soil to breathe, while overseeding fills in bare patches and promotes thicker, healthier grass. Ideal Timing: Fall is the perfect season in Oklahoma City for these services due to cooler temperatures and increased moisture, creating optimal conditions for seed germination. Post-Aeration and Overseeding Care Now that your lawn has received the necessary treatment, it's time to ensure its continued success. Here's what to do: 1. Initial Watering (Day 1 - Germination) For the first few weeks, water your lawn 3 to 4 times a day. Aim for sessions every 2 to 3 hours, starting early in the morning and ending early in the evening. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist without overwatering, which could wash away the seed. 2. Post-Germination (Day 7 - 21) After germination, which typically occurs between 7 to 21 days, it's time to gradually dial back the watering. Reduce the frequency to once a day or every other day, depending on local weather conditions. This transition is crucial to avoid overwatering as your grass establishes itself. 3. The Sharp Blade Secret (3 to 4 Weeks After Seeding) When it's time for the first mowing (approximately 3 to 4 weeks after seeding), be sure to use sharp mower blades. Dull blades can damage young grass, hindering its growth. Make sure your mower blades are in excellent condition. 4. Fertilization (Approximately 30 Days After Seeding) Around 30 days after seeding, provide your new grass with the necessary nutrients. Consult with us to determine the best fertilizer for your specific lawn. 5. Ongoing Maintenance Maintain a regular watering schedule, usually twice per week. Aim for a total of 1 inch of water per week but be vigilant about local weather conditions and the moisture needs of your lawn. By following these steps, you'll maximize the benefits of your aeration and overseeding efforts, ensuring a lush and resilient lawn. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalized guidance and assistance throughout this critical phase of your lawn's development. Your dedication to your lawn's health will pay off with a beautiful and thriving outdoor space for years to come.
What is Pre-emergent for Lawns and How Does it Work? Pre-emergent herbicides are a vital tool in the fight against lawn weeds. By understanding what pre-emergent is and how it works, homeowners can keep their lawns healthy and free of weeds. What is Pre-emergent? Pre-emergent herbicides are chemicals that are designed to prevent weeds from germinating in your lawn. They work by creating a barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from sprouting and taking root. Pre-emergent herbicides are typically applied in a granular form and should be watered in after application to activate the chemicals. You may have seen lawns have been sprayed with blue or green dye. Blue and green dye are often mixed into pre-emergent herbicides to make it easier to see where the product has been applied. This can help to prevent overlap and ensure that the herbicide is applied evenly across the lawn. However, the use of dyes is not always necessary and should be used with caution as they may have some drawbacks, as mentioned earlier. Is Pre-emergent the Same as Fertilizer? Pre-emergent herbicides are not the same as fertilizer. While both products can be applied to lawns, they serve different purposes. Fertilizer is used to provide essential nutrients to grass and promote healthy growth, while pre-emergent herbicides are used to prevent weeds from germinating. Does Pre-emergent Hurt Grass? When used properly, pre-emergent herbicides should not harm grass. They work by preventing weed seeds from germinating, and do not typically have an impact on established turfgrass. However, it's important to follow all label directions and apply the product at the recommended rate to ensure that you are not applying too much, which could cause damage to your lawn. How Long Does Lawn Pre-emergent Last? The length of time that pre-emergent herbicides last can vary depending on several factors, including the specific product used, the time of year, and weather conditions. In general, most pre-emergent herbicides provide protection for several months, but it's important to reapply the product as needed to ensure continued protection against weeds. Soil Temperature and Weed Germination Soil temperature plays a crucial role in weed seed germination. Different types of weeds have different temperature preferences for germination, but in general, most weed seeds begin to germinate when soil temperatures reach a consistent 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. By applying pre-emergent herbicides before soil temperatures reach this range, homeowners can prevent weeds from ever taking root in their lawn. Conclusion Pre-emergent herbicides are a valuable tool for preventing weeds in your lawn. By understanding how they work and using them properly, homeowners can keep their lawns healthy and free of unsightly weeds. Remember to always follow label directions when using any type of lawn care product and take precautions to ensure the safety of people, pets, and wildlife. With proper use, pre-emergent herbicides can help keep your lawn looking beautiful all season long.
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