FALL TURF RENOVATION

Site-101: Fall Turf Renovation

After the heat of summer, turf needs to be rejuvenated. Fall is a great time to boost turf health through overseeding, aerating and topdressing.

Overseeding

Overseeding is especially prevalent in the transition zone because turf-type tall fescue needs to be rejuvenated after periods of high heat. Depending on your region and your customers' turf needs, overseeding could be a great way to help turf remain thick and healthy.

Select the right variety of seed for the best results. LESCO seed is chosen due to its unique characteristics including disease resistance, drought tolerance, advanced tillering, color, density, durability and yield. Don't forget to apply a good starter fertilizer with appropriate levels of NPK to aid in germination and strong root development.

Aerating

A well-textured soil profile is necessary to achieve healthy turf. Aeration allows air, water and nutrients to penetrate the soil.

Whether aeration should be part of fall turf renovation depends on the turf type.  Cool-season varieties grow vigorously in the fall and recover quickly from the stress of aeration. Aerating cool-season grass in the fall will lead to stronger, rejuvenated turf. On the other hand, warm-season varieties should be aerated during its rapid growth period in late spring or early summer.

Follow aeration with fertilization, preferably a starter fertilizer high in phosphorus.  Phosphorus is essential to grass seedlings since they require more of this nutrient at this stage.   The perforated soil will accept nutrients more easily and the turf will become stronger and thicker.

Topdressing

To help your customers achieve the most beautiful turf possible, supplement your fall fertilization regime by topdressing with organic materials.

One great organic topdressing product is CarbonizPN™  by Mirimichi Green. CarbonizPN Release is a carbon-based soil amendment that helps plants grow by reducing water needs and improving the efficiency of the soil. It permanently improves soil structure and biology to create the perfect home for root establishment.  

To achieve beautiful and healthy yards, plan a fall rejuvenation regime for your customers' turf. Contact your local SiteOne store for questions about supplies or application.