Garden Column for the Salisbury Post

Darrell Blackwelder

March 7, 2003

Buds on trees are swelling and some plants are actually flowering and daffodils are beginning to bloom. However, my lawn still looks terrible and lawns throughout the county are in the same predicament. Judging from the inquires so far this spring, lawn establishment is a major focus of homeowners in the spring. Its not to difficult to determine why certain areas of the lawn are thinning out or have failed to establish. The extended drought has destroyed many lawns. In other situations it may be a combination of drought and much shade from overhanging tree limbs. Too much shade will thin lawns quickly, especially if during a drought. 

Some lawns lack proper fertility which will easily thin out this summer. Poor root establishment is often a result of improper levels of phosphorous. This is a typical problem for new construction where grading has occurred. Those considering a total makeover should wait until fall if possible. Cool season fescue lawns are typically easier to establish in the fall. However, many cannot wait and need to seed now. Lawn establishment in the spring and summer is difficult, but is possible if the weather cooperates. 

Normally, core aeration is done only in the fall. Core aerating now can do no harm if the lawns are extremely weak or non existent. Coring allows fertilizer and seed to penetrate without plowing. Indigenous weeds quickly move in on thin or bare areas and the lawn becomes a hodge podge of everything but fescue. 

Soil sampling is the best method to determine soil fertility. Unfortunately, it normally takes about 4-6 weeks to receive a sample back from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. 

Fertilization in the spring can be somewhat tricky. Many tend to over fertilize in the spring. Only one pound of actual nitrogen should be used in the spring. Slow release, premium fertilizers, are generally recommended because they slowly release fertilizer over a long period of time. Slowly releasing nitrogen during the spring allows grass to green but grow slowly, eliminating excessive growth.

 Another problem with spring fertilization is over liming. Liming every year may cause fertility problems. In most instances, liming should only be done every three years. For more complete information on lawn fertilization contact Cooperative Extension at 704-633-0571 and ask for "Caring for Your Lawn and the Environment" publication AG-597.

Darrell Blackwelder is an agricultural agent in charge of horticulture with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County. For archived garden columns or other information, visit the Rowan County Master Gardener web site at www.rowanmastergardener.com or e mail Darrell_blackwelder@ncsu.edu or phone at 704-633-0571.