GARDENER'S READING ROOM
Lawn Care

Water Wise Lawn Tips

• Your lawn needs about 1" of water per week. Water long and slowly once a week if there is not enough rain. Use a soil probe or a spade to check how far down the water is penetrating. If the water pools on top or runs off, apply a soil penetrate such as Perc-o-late Plus or E-Z Wet. If your soil is either sandy or compacted, top dress with 1/4" compost to help improve its moisture-holding capacity.
• A mulching mower is one of the best investments you can make for your lawn. Mow high (2" – 2 1/2") and often. Grass clippings are about 90% water and 10% nitrogen. Mulching does NOT contribute to thatch; it is a great benefit to your lawn.
• Fertilize about Memorial Day with a slow-release fertilizer such as Whitney Farms Lawn Food, then wait until about Labor Day to fertilize again. You don't want to stimulate rapid, soft growth that requires extra water solution.

Skylights Spring/Summer 2005, Vol 19, No. 2

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