Personal Lawn Care, Inc.

Spring Weed Prevention and Early Control for Memphis Yards

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 14:25:56 GMT

Spring in Memphis brings warmer temperatures, longer days, and much-needed rain—but it also signals the start of weed season. As lawns begin to wake up from winter dormancy, weeds are already active below the surface, ready to take advantage of changing conditions. Early prevention and control are key to keeping your yard healthy, thick, and weed-free throughout the growing season.

Why Spring Weed Control Matters in Memphis

Memphis lawns face a unique combination of mild winters, early warm spells, and spring rainfall. These conditions create the perfect environment for weeds like crabgrass, henbit, chickweed, and clover to thrive. Many of these weeds germinate before homeowners even notice them, competing with grass for nutrients, sunlight, and water.

Once weeds become established, they’re much harder—and more expensive—to eliminate later in the season. That’s why spring is the most critical time to focus on proactive weed management.

The Role of Pre-Emergent Weed Control

One of the most effective tools for spring weed prevention is pre-emergent weed control . Pre-emergents work by stopping weed seeds from germinating in the first place, creating a protective barrier in the soil before weeds ever break the surface.

Timing is everything. In Memphis, pre-emergent applications are most effective as soil temperatures begin to rise consistently—often late winter to early spring. Applying too late allows weeds to take hold, while applying too early can reduce effectiveness.

Early Post-Emergent Treatments: Stopping Weeds in Their Tracks

Even with pre-emergent treatments, some weeds may still appear due to weather fluctuations or existing seed pressure. That’s where early post-emergent weed control comes in. Targeting young, actively growing weeds in early spring prevents them from spreading and producing seeds that can cause problems later in the year.

Professional treatments ensure weeds are addressed without harming your turf, especially important for common Memphis grasses like Bermuda and fescue.

Healthy Lawns Naturally Resist Weeds

A thick, well-maintained lawn is one of the best defenses against weeds. Proper fertilization, mowing at the correct height, and consistent lawn care practices help grass grow dense enough to crowd out unwanted growth. Spring lawn care sets the foundation for strong root development and long-term weed resistance.

Why Professional Weed Control Makes a Difference

Spring weed control requires precise timing, product selection, and local expertise. At Personal Lawn Care , we understand Memphis lawns and the seasonal challenges they face. Our tailored weed control programs focus on prevention first, early intervention second, and long-term lawn health always.

By starting weed control early in the spring, you’re protecting your lawn for the entire growing season—and saving yourself frustration down the road.

Get Ahead of Weeds This Spring

If you want a greener, healthier lawn without the constant battle against weeds, now is the time to act. Contact Personal Lawn Care today to learn more about our spring weed prevention and early control services designed specifically for Memphis yards.

Fall Lawn Care in Memphis: Best Practices for a Healthy, Beautiful Yard

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:05:00 GMT

As the vibrant greens of summer give way to the golden tones of fall, your lawn in Memphis begins its quiet transition into dormancy. But don’t be fooled—autumn isn’t the time to neglect your grass. In fact, fall is one of the most important seasons to care for your lawn if you want it to look lush and healthy come spring.

Here are some best practices (and a few fun facts!) to help your yard thrive this season:

1. Keep Mowing—But Lower the Blade Gradually

Many homeowners stop mowing as soon as the weather cools, but your lawn still needs a trim! Continue mowing until the grass stops actively growing. As fall progresses, slightly lower your mower blade —ending about one notch lower than your summer height.

2. Rake or Mulch the Leaves

Those colorful leaves may look pretty, but if they sit too long, they can smother your lawn and block sunlight. Rake regularly—or better yet, mulch them with your mower to create a natural, nutrient-rich layer that feeds your soil.

3. Overseed Thin Patches in Fescue Lawns

If your fescue lawn has thin or bare spots, fall is prime time to overseed . The soil is still warm, and cooler air temperatures make it easier for new grass to establish strong roots. Combine overseeding with aeration for best results.

4. Feed Your Lawn a Fall Fertilizer

Your grass may not be growing as fast above ground, but underground, its roots are still busy. Applying a slow-release fall fertilizer helps build strong roots and store nutrients through the winter.

Look for one that’s low in nitrogen and high in potassium —two key nutrients for root development and winter resilience.

5. Watch Out for Weeds

Broadleaf weeds like clover and dandelion love the fall too. A pre-emergent weed treatment or targeted spot spray can help prevent them from taking over while your grass is resting.

6. Plan Ahead for Next Year

Before winter hits, take stock of what worked well this year and what didn’t. Need better drainage? Thinking about switching to a more resilient grass type? Fall is the perfect time to schedule a lawn evaluation or maintenance plan with the experts at Personal Lawn Care Inc.

We know the unique challenges Memphis lawns face—from heavy clay soils to unpredictable weather—and we’re here to help your yard look its best all year long.

Fall lawn care is all about preparation —giving your grass the nutrients, air, and care it needs to rest well through winter and wake up strong in spring. With a little effort now, you’ll be rewarded with a greener, healthier lawn when the warm weather returns.

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Best Lawn Grass Types for Memphis and Year-Round Care Tips

Wed, 28 May 2025 22:44:00 GMT

If you’re living in Memphis and dreaming of a lush, green lawn that survives the Southern heat and thrives throughout the seasons, the good news is—you’re in the right climate for some fantastic grass options. But not all grass types are created equal. With Memphis’ hot, humid summers and typically mild winters, choosing the right lawn grass—and knowing how to care for it year-round—is key to keeping your yard healthy and beautiful.

Best Grass Types for Memphis Lawns

Type: Warm-season

Best For: Full sun areas, high-traffic yards, quick recovery

Why Memphis Loves It: Bermudagrass is drought-tolerant,

tough, and thrives in the intense Southern sun.

Watch Out: It needs full sun—shade can cause it to thin out.

Type: Warm-season

Best For: Moderate shade tolerance, high-end appearance

Why Memphis Loves It: Thick, soft, and resilient, Zoysia creates a carpet-like lawn that’s resistant to disease and weed pressure.

Watch Out: Slower to green up in spring than Bermuda.May have insect concerns. Disease is possible if over irrigated.

Type: Cool-season

Best For: Shaded areas or transitional lawns

Why Memphis Loves It: Grows well in partial shade and stays green longer into the fall and early spring.

Watch Out: Struggles in the peak of Memphis summer without regular watering.

Year-Round Lawn Care Tips for Memphis Grass

Spring (March–June)

Start Fresh: Rake up winter debris and check for any bare patches.

Fertilization: In our Round 1 application, applied in spring to early summer, we use our Spring Fertilization with a time-released formula that supports healthy root growth (for drought resistance), strong leaf formation (for disease resistance), and vibrant color. For our Round 2 application, once the grass begins actively growing in April, we apply a balanced fertilizer, often combined with weed control. This combination has proven to be highly effective.

Weed Control: Our Round 1 weed control application is done early in the spring, typically before the grass turns green. This application creates a barrier at the soil level, preventing most springtime weeds from sprouting. Any weeds that have already emerged will also be controlled. For our Round 2 application, we apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early March to prevent crabgrass and other annual weeds, alongside fertilizer.

Summer (July–August)

Water Smart: Deep water 1–1.5 inches per week in the early morning.

Mow High: For Bermudagrass and Zoysia, mow at 1–2 inches. For Tall Fescue, mow at 3–4 inches to protect roots from heat.

Fertilize: Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia benefit from a mid-summer feeding. We call this our Round 3 application.

Fall (September–November)

Overseed (if needed): If you’re using Tall Fescue or want a green lawn into winter, overseed in September.

Weed Defense: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide again to fight winter weeds. We call this our Round 5 application.

Aerate: Fall is a great time to aerate your lawn and reduce soil compaction.

Winter (December–February)

Minimal Mowing: Warm-season grasses go dormant—no mowing needed.

Keep it Clean: Remove leaves and debris to avoid mold and smothering the grass.

Plan Ahead: Winter is the perfect time to plan reseeding or upgrades for next spring.

Final Thoughts

Memphis lawns can look amazing with the right grass type and a little seasonal TLC. Whether you go with hardy Bermudagrass, elegant Zoysia, or cool-weather-friendly Tall Fescue, the key is to match your grass to your yard’s sun, shade, and traffic levels—and stay consistent with your care routine. We find our clients are happiest when they utilize our Preferred Service Program!

A thriving lawn in Memphis isn’t just possible—it’s totally doable. Just pick the right grass, follow the seasonal game plan, and let us and that Southern sun do the rest.

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Lawn Care Tips to Prepare for Spring

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 17:53:00 GMT

Spring might feel far away, but it’s never too early to dream of a lush, green lawn. By tackling a few simple tasks now, you’ll set the stage for a thriving yard that’s the envy of the neighborhood. Here are some practical tips to get you started:

1. Start with Scalping

Start with Scalping (Warm season turf – not Fescue) Mowing your lawn as low as possible and bagging the clippings will remove last year’s growth as well as some of the embedded leaves and thatch. Raking or dethatching should be considered if the lawn has more than ½” of thatch present. Scalping should be done about the time that you notice green blades of grass around the edges of your lawn near hardscapes. In our area this typically happens in late February or early March.

2. Repair Bare Spots with Overseeding in Fescue Lawns

Winter can leave behind unsightly bare patches in fescue lawns. Overseeding—spreading new grass seed over these areas—is a great solution. While fall is the preferred time for this process, spring overseeding can still work wonders for those pesky bare spots. Keep in mind that overseeding requires precise timing, fertilization, and a bit of patience to yield the best results. Contact our office to make arrangements for fescue overseeding.

3. Apply Fertilizer Strategically

Fertilizing your lawn is key to encouraging healthy growth, but it’s more complex than sprinkling random fertilizer. Different grass types and seasons call for specific fertilizers, and incorrect application can do more harm than good. To avoid guesswork, let the experts at Personal Lawn Care handle this aspect for you!

4.Use Weed Control Products Effectively

As temperatures rise, weeds like crabgrass and dandelions can quickly invade your lawn. Stay ahead of the game by using weed control products.

Pre-emergent Products: should be applied early in the season and are ideal for preventing weed seeds from germinating.
Post-emergent Products: are designed to tackle existing weeds.

Personal Lawn Care uses both pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control products in your regular lawn treatment package – don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our proactive approach to save you time and frustration later in the season!

5. Monitor for Insect and Disease Damage

In the Memphis area, lawns can experience insect or disease damage that requires specific treatments. Discovering the affected areas and addressing the problem early provides the best outcome for your lawn. Our trained technicians can assess and diagnose the issues in your lawn, make a plan to address these in a timely manner and help your lawn heal and thrive.

Taking these steps will set your lawn up for success as the warmer days roll in. But let’s be honest: lawn care can be time-consuming and tricky. At Personal Lawn Care, we specialize in everything from weed control and fertilization to soil analysis fescue overseeding. Contact us today for a personalized plan to transform your lawn into the lush oasis you’ve always wanted!

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Rejuvenation Pruning After Freeze Damage

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 16:49:00 GMT

Many people in the Memphis area will have freeze damage to their landscaping over the winter. When that happens, it raises many questions. We found a great video about rejuvenation pruning and how it’s saving landscapes in the Memphis area after a brutal winter freeze! Dale Skaggs, the director of horticulture at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, shares some invaluable insights in this video. He takes you through the challenges they faced when temperatures dramatically dropped below zero, causing significant damage to numerous plants. Dale provides an excellent solution in this video – rejuvenation pruning. By trimming back the frost-damaged parts and giving those green buddies a little patience, new growth will make an appearance! Dale shares some nifty tools you’ll need to make your landscaping flourish once again!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/@dixongallerygardens

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7 Tips for a Lush Lawn

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 16:01:00 GMT

You may not be too concerned about how you’re mowing your lawn — all that really matters is that it looks lush and lively. After all, is there a wrong way to mow? According to most lawn care professionals, there absolutely is a right and wrong way to go about mowing your lawn. Proper lawn care can help promote the lush lawn condition that you’re looking for. Conversely, going about lawn care in the wrong way can actually do more harm than good, putting unnecessary strain on your grass. Follow these seven helpful tips from Personal Lawn Care to help keep your lawn looking great all season long!

Don’t Scalp Your Lawn (aka Mowing Too Short)

When you cut your grass too short, it’s known as “scalping” your lawn. There are two big reasons why this can be harmful to your grass. Firstly, when you trim your grass too short, it’s possible that you’ll actually go so far as to expose soil. This can leave your turf vulnerable to disease and create a nice open space for weeds to take root. Secondly, continuously trimming your grass too short can have a negative effect on the development of your lawn’s root system. As the root system weakens, your lawn’s thickness will diminish, as will its resistance to drought conditions or extreme temperatures.

Adjust Your Mower to the Proper Height

Scalping your lawn should be off the table — however, the proper length to trim your grass can actually vary depending on the time of year.

In late spring and into summer, it’s recommended to adjust your mower height to about three inches. Allowing your grass to be a bit taller during this season helps to protect your soil from the blaring summer sun, which in turn allows your turf’s soil to more easily retain water and prevent weed growth. Once fall rolls around, you can lower your mower height to about two and a half inches in order to prevent molding or damage to your turf when the first snowfall arrives. A slightly shorter lawn also makes cleaning up leaves in the fall much easier to deal with.

Keep Your Mower Blades Sharp

It should come as no surprise that sharper mower blades deliver a cleaner cut. When your mower blades begin to dull it can result in jagged edges in your grass cuts, and can even produce uneven patterns. These inconsistencies in your grass structure can create openings for pests and lawn disease — and let’s be honest, it doesn’t look great. For a nice, clean cut, your mower blades should be sharpened a few times a year. At the very least, you should seek to have your mower blades professionally sharpened about once a season. If you have a large lawn, we recommend actually keeping a few spare blades on hand that you can swap them out, rather than visiting the mower shop too frequently.

Alternate Mowing Directions Week-to-Week

When you mow your grass, stick with a single directional pattern each time. Feel free to change the direction the next time you mow, as going over the same path over and over again can begin to cause wear on your lawn. It’s possible that you may even begin to compact the soil under where the mower wheels travel and create ruts in your lawn. Your grass leans in the direction that it is cut, so alternating the direction of your cuts from week to week will help your grass grow straighter.

Only Mow Dry Grass

Heavy machinery with moving sharp blades does not mix well with wet grass, especially with the risk of slipping. In addition to being a safety hazard, wet grass can spell disaster for your mower and your turf. Wet grass easily sticks together in clumps and can clog your mower’s deck, leaving behind wads of wet grass as you cut. It’s also reasonable to assume that if your grass is wet, so is the soil. Soggy soil can more easily compact under the weight of a heavy mower, creating ruts and tearing up your grass. It’s just no good — wait until your lawn is dry to mow.

Be Aware of Extreme Heat

On the hottest days of the summer, the sun can do serious damage to both your grass and your skin. Whenever you cut your grass, even on temperate days, you are causing some degree of stress. This stress can be exacerbated by extreme heat which saps the moisture from your lawn right when it needs it the most to recover. Avoid mowing your lawn on blisteringly hot days — your grass and your skin will thank you.

Consider Grass Recycling

Grass recycling, or “grasscyling,” is precisely what it sounds like. Occasionally, instead of bagging up your grass clippings, you can allow the nutrients from the clippings to naturally fertilize your lawn. You shouldn’t do this every time you mow, but you can think of it as a little treat for your lawn and yourself (it can be nice to avoid the hassle of bagging clippings now and then.) Allowing your lawn to fertilize itself in this way every once in a while can give your lawn the boost it needs to become more lush and beautiful.

Get a Lawn That You’re Proud of With Personal Lawn Care

As a local, family-owned small business in Tennessee, it is our joy and pleasure to help maintain your home’s landscape with ease. We promise to take care of your lawn as if it were our very own! Our customer experience-centered approach means that we’ll treat every lawn like it’s the most important lawn that we’re treating that day, and we won’t be satisfied until you’re satisfied! We’re committed to paying attention to even the smallest details of your lawn, and by doing so, treating each of our clients with the respect they deserve. For lawn care that is done right the first time and at a quality you won’t find anywhere else in the region, contact Personal Lawn Care today!

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The Problems Weeds Pose to Your Lawn

Wed, 26 May 2021 22:34:00 GMT

Weed control services are essential for proper lawn maintenance. You spend too much time and money keeping your yard well-groomed to have it ruined by pesky weeds. We know all too well that that’s easier said than done. Weed removal is an ongoing process during the spring and summer months. At Personal Lawn Care, we offer year-round weed control services to prevent as many weeds from growing as possible, and remove the few that might grow.

Weeds can cause major issues for your lawn, which is why weed control is an essential lawn care service. Not only are weeds detrimental to your lawn’s growth, but they can be dangerous for kids and pets, too. Continue reading to learn more about the problems weeds pose to your lawn.

Weeds Compete with Your Grass, Plants and Flowers

Spring is finally here and you just spent the weekend buying and planting new flowers for your yard. Everything looks beautiful! The grass is growing beautifully thanks to fertilizer and a good watering schedule. You now get to relax in your own little Eden. But wait — is that a weed? Uh oh. Little do you know the complications weeds can cause to your once-healthy grass and plants.

Weeds grow rapidly across lawns because they steal nutrients from the grass and neighboring plants or flowers. These nutrients can be as complex as fertilizing compounds, or as simple as water. As long as weeds are around, your lawn will be deprived of essentials that it needs to grow properly. Weeds also compete for space and can block sunlight, further destroying your grass, plants and flowers. Invasive weeds are some of the most harmful contaminants in a yard. Don’t hesitate to remove them as soon as you see one.

Weeds Can Be Harmful to Children and Pets

Weeds bring with them harmful diseases that can be dangerous if ingested by your pets. Hopefully your kids won’t get the urge to eat any weeds, but some weeds could still cause rashes and other unwanted problems. Common weeds like Ragweed, Pigweed, and Ryegrass can contribute to asthma and other respiratory issues in children and other family members. It’s important to recognize possibly poisonous weeds in your yard, too. Fireweed is common in Memphis and very poisonous.

Another potential issue arises if weeds manage to grow into your water supply and ruin the water quality. Weeds have a tendency to spread rapidly and have the ability to grow into any structure or building. This capability makes it that much more crucial to incorporate good weed control services into your lawn maintenance. Keep your yard a safe haven to enjoy and play in with expert weed control services from Personal Lawn Care.

Weeds Create Natural Homes for Pests and Insects

Many weeds grow in bundles or patches which can become the perfect nesting areas for insects and critters. Since weeds steal nutrients from grassy areas, it’s easy for infestation to quickly follow after weeds start seeding and growing rapidly. Insects and diseases are obviously harmful to pets and humans, but could also prevent any gardens from growing full, healthy vegetables and plants. If you’re experiencing any of these problems, our insect control services could help.

Recognize and Identify Common Weeds

Be aware of these invasive and detrimental weeds in your lawn. Contact us today to help you remove any of these weeds from your lawn.

Common Weeds in Memphis:

Nutsedge, or Nutgrass
Fireweed
Kyllinga
Virginia Buttonweed
Doveweed
Dallisgrass
Goosegrass
Crabgrass

Uproot the Problem with Personal Lawn Care

Personal Lawn Care is available for all of your weed control needs in Memphis and surrounding areas. Our services last all year to consistently treat your lawn and prevent weeds. Our team of landscaping professionals are dedicated to making your lawn look great and we treat each yard as if it were our own. Learn more about our lawn care services or contact us to schedule your first treatment.

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Flu Shot for Your Lawn

Wed, 26 May 2021 19:42:00 GMT

Did you remember to get a flu shot… for your lawn? Protect Zoysia now or resod later.

Thick Zoysia turf can be an envy of the neighborhood. This versatile durable grass grows well from full sun to partial shade. It’s durable, but not indestructible. During the spring & fall Zoysia can quickly come under attack-seemingly overnight-from a disease called Zoysia Patch. Large circular, semi-circular or arcs of damaged turf with orange bronze borders will be visible. Lack of treatment will result in thin turf and can lead to expensive resodding. Like a flu shot, effective prevention should be applied before the disease is visible. Control for active outbreaks may also be applied. Personal Lawn Care has the knowledgeable experts to proactively help keep this disease under control.

Click here to view the full flyer.

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Six Lawn Care Tips To Prepare for Spring – Part Two

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 21:15:00 GMT

If you haven’t read part one of this series , be sure to catch up on our first three lawn care tips to prepare your yard for spring. If you live in Memphis and the surrounding areas, don’t let the warm days and backyard parties sneak up on you — get in touch with Personal Lawn Care!

With more than 25 years of providing professional lawn care services to residents in the Memphis area, the experts at Personal Lawn Care can provide you with quality and affordable services to meet the unique needs of your property.

Without further ado, here are three more lawn care tips for preparing your yard for the springtime.

4. Overseeding Fescue Lawns

During the winter, it’s easy for the health of your lawn to go unnoticed. As you look forward to spring, you will want to address any bare patches that may have formed during the colder months. In the language of lawn care, “overseeding” refers to the process of sowing seed over existing grass in your yard. It is a fertilization process that requires the use of more than one type of nitrogen fertilizer, with applications spread over the course of five to six weeks. While it can be done with a can-do attitude, some very specific Google-ing, patience, and timely follow-up, I’d recommend contacting a local lawn care provider to handle the entire process for you. Plus, experts like Personal Lawn Care can add overseeding to a custom service package designed around your needs, or include it in a more robust fertilization service . That brings us to our next point…. fertilizing!

Note: Spring isn’t the best time to overseed your lawn, as most experts agree on fall. However, as you head into spring, it is still recommended as a specific treatment for bare patches that exist on your lawn.

5. Fertilize!

Lots of homeowners like to fertilize their lawns themselves, but most have a very basic, and often misinformed understanding of how fertilization works, what types of fertilizer should be applied to their grass, and other key aspects of this important lawn care practice. You can check out our previous blog post for answers to your most frequently asked questions about fertilizing , but we’d always recommend contacting a professional to ensure that you are doing things the right way.

6. Apply Herbicides

As the temperatures rise and the days get consistently warmer, pesky weeds like crabgrass will begin their attack on your lawn. To fight back, you will need to apply the proper herbicides to your lawn. Keep an eye out for our blog post on herbicides, but for now, there are two main types of herbicides that will need to be used:

Preemergent: These herbicides can be applied in anticipation of the warmer days of spring. They are used as a preemptive measure to prevent seedlings from emerging in the first place.
Emergent: These are the herbicides that come out when it’s time to treat a stubborn patch of weeds in your lawn. Crabgrass and dandelions are among the usual suspects, and emergent pesticides can be used instead of, or in conjunction with, pulling weeds out by the roots.

For information about the first three tips, please check out part one of this series . Knowing these six lawn care tips can help you prepare your yard for spring, but executing everything correctly is another matter, entirely. If you want to have the yard that the neighborhood won’t stop talking about, get in touch with Personal Lawn Care to schedule a professional service for your property in Memphis.

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Six Lawn Care Tips To Prepare for Spring – Part One

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 01:05:00 GMT

They say: “spring is in the air…”

Well, almost. As we round out the month of February, most of us are looking forward to putting the cold, winter days behind us.

While it’s not quite time to plant a garden or pull out the picnic basket, it’s high-time you start preparing your lawn for the spring. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of six lawn care tips to prepare your yard for spring. Read on to learn more about the first three, and be sure to catch part-two of this series for rest of the lawn care tips.

If after reading this, you feel like it’s going to require a lot of time and effort (I’ll be straight with you — it will), get in touch with the experts at Personal Lawn Care. From weed and insect control, to soil analysis, lawn fertilizer services, and more, Personal Lawn Care is your trusted, local provider of professional lawn care services in Memphis and the surrounding areas.

1. Grab the Rake

Look at you! You did a great job raking your lawn in the fall, and your trees haven’t dropped leaves for months. There isn’t a dang thing to rake, right? Wrong.

You’re forgetting about a little thing called “thatch.” Thatch is mainly composed of dead turf-grass tissue, and it exists as a layer between the green vegetation of your grass, and the roots and soil below. This layer of thatch poses a variety of threats to the health of your lawn, but with some deep and thorough raking, you can send it packing. Raking your lawn in preparation for spring is also a great way to spot matted clusters of grass that can impede the healthy growth of your lawn as the seasons change.

2. Look for Moss

In all likelihood, there probably weren’t a lot of BBQs or parties on your lawn during the winter — but that is about to change. Now that you will be entertaining again, you need to prepare your grass for the heavy increase in foot traffic that is to come. If you notice any moss while preparing your lawn for spring, it is likely that the soil below the moss has become compacted over the winter. You can address this by aerating the problem areas of your lawn, which allows water and air to penetrate the soil and reach the grassroots, promoting healthy growth in the spring.

It should be noted, however, that spring is not the best time to aerate your entire yard, as it can also invite weed-seeds for quick germination. You should only aerate problem areas that display moss or other signs of compacted soil, as needed.

3. Assess Your Soil

One day, a homeowner went to a wise-man and asked: “how do I keep my lawn healthy and green?” The wise-man paused, thought for a moment, and replied:

“Well, your soil is the root of your problem.”

All jokes aside, if you notice moss or other signs of disease or irregular growth in your grass, it is likely a sign that your soil has become acidic. There are a number of things you can do to assess the acidity of your grass and help it get back to a neutral pH level, but none of them are quick fixes. Instead, get in touch with the lawn care experts at Personal Lawn Care in Memphis. A lab analysis of your soil can quickly and accurately determine the proper treatments for your lawn, so you can get it the help it needs.

Be sure to check out part two of our series for more lawn care tips to prepare your yard for spring, and contact Personal Lawn Care in Memphis to get a free estimate for your next project!

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Guardian of the Green: What Lawn Spray Can Do for You

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 22:00:00 GMT

You see them all over TV, hear about them from your green-thumbed neighbor, and know you need to have a bottle or two in your garage — but what is lawn spray and what can it do for you? The answer is somewhat complicated, but in today’s post we are going to go over some general information about lawn spray and highlight some of the ways it can help you keep a healthy, lush lawn. If you are looking for expert lawn care services in Memphis, get in touch with Personal Lawn Care today!

What’s in Lawn Spray?

Let’s clear up a common misconception right-up-top, lawn spray is not an excessively toxic mixture of chemicals that can harm your grass. In fact, most lawn sprays are almost entirely water, with a small mixture of fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides added in.

How Does Lawn Spray Work?

Once you spray your lawn, the process is natural and pretty cool (at least we think so). Each blade of grass that is coated with the lawn spray acts as a carrier for the fertilizer, pesticides, and insecticides found in the spray. Next time you mow your lawn, the coated blades of grass fall into the lawn and are composted by the soil — delivering all of the rich nutrients and helpful additives that your grass needs to thrive.

Lawn Spray Protects Your Lawn

As discussed above, the fertilizer found in lawn spray is delivered organically when each blade of grass falls, giving your lawn the nutrients it needs to grow, withstand extreme temperatures, fend off disease, and more. The insecticides found in lawn spray also help keep pests away, but unlike the other additives in the spray, you don’t have to wait for the blades of grass to fall for these chemicals to start working. Insecticides immediately reduce the amount of insects lurking in your grass, and their effects continue after the composting process.

Lawn Spray Treats and Prevents Weeds

Proper lawn spray also includes weed control treatments that help prevent unsightly breakouts. However, whether or not your weed problem can be addressed by a general lawn spray is completely situational. If you are experiencing stubborn or aggressive weeds, you need to speak with Personal Lawn Care about our weed control services . Our experts will assess your weed problem and come up with a personalized solution that fits the unique needs of your lawn. Get in touch with us today to schedule an estimate!

Lawn Spray is an essential tool for those who want to keep their grass healthy and green all year long. However, choosing the right lawn spray is difficult unless you have an in-depth understanding of grass, fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, and more. Applying that lawn spray correctly is another issue, altogether. Unless you are a “guru of the green,” you should contact Personal Lawn Care to learn more about how our lawn spray services can help you. Get in touch with us today to schedule an estimate for your home or business in the Memphis area.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Fertilizer

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 20:44:00 GMT

Everyone has that one house in their neighborhood that always boasts an idyllic, lush green lawn. You know, that yard that makes everyone else’s look bad? You may not be comfortable asking your neighbor what their secret is, but we can assure you that proper fertilization is a big part of it.

In today’s post, we are going to provide answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about lawn fertilizer to help you level up your knowledge and begin your journey to a healthier and more attractive lawn. Want to skip the journey and become THAT house in your neighborhood? Get in touch with the experts at Personal Lawn Care to schedule an estimate!

Why Do I Need To Fertilize My Lawn?

Let’s start with the basics. To put it simply, your lawn is like the human body. You can give it all the water that it needs, but that alone is not enough to survive — and it certainly isn’t enough to have the body of an Olympian. Like your body, your lawn needs a healthy intake of food, and lawn fertilizer is packed with all of the nutrients that grass needs to survive, grow, and thrive.

What Does Lawn Fertilizer Do?

Fertilizing your lawn encourages healthy grass growth and provides that lush green color that everyone is after. It also helps the roots of your grass grow strong and resilient so they can fight off diseases, withstand high temperatures, and handle heavy foot-traffic. So if you’re a fan of tossing the pigskin, playing fetch with your dog, or hosting large gatherings, lawn fertilizer doesn’t only give you green grass to play on, it also fortifies your grass so that it can withstand all of the action you throw at it.

How Do I Pick the Right Lawn Fertilizer?

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right lawn fertilizer. First, you will need to determine the kind of grass on your lawn. Then, you need to consider the specific needs of your lawn, from weed control to insect and pest treatments. After that, you need to make sure that you choose a lawn fertilizer that is appropriate for the season, as grass has different needs depending on the time of year that you fertilize it. Sound complicated? It can be. If you want a simple solution, get in touch with the experts at Personal Lawn Care to have a treatment plan built around the specific needs of your lawn.

What Is the Best Time of Day To Apply Lawn Fertilizer?

Let’s start with when you shouldn’t fertilize your lawn. You should never fertilize with a scorching hot sun beating down on your grass. Generally, this means that using lawn fertilizer in the late afternoon or early evening is your best bet. Of course, this varies by the lawn. If you have shade or tree-cover your fertilizing time can be more flexible.

Is There Anything I Should Do Before I Fertilize My Lawn?

Mowing and raking are always recommended before using lawn fertilizer. If you want to go all-the-way, aerate your lawn before fertilizing. Mowing and raking help get excess debris out of the way so that fertilizer can easily reach the soil. Aerating your lawn creates a direct channel to the soil and roots of your grass, maximizing the effect of your fertilizer.

There are many things to consider when it comes to fertilizing your lawn, and there’s a reason why residents in Memphis turn to Personal Lawn Care for their fertilization services. Want premium and affordable lawn care for your home or business? Get in touch with us today to schedule an estimate!

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365: The Importance of Seasonal Weed Control

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 18:31:00 GMT

When you care about the health and appearance of your lawn, it can feel like you are in a never-ending war with weeds — and you aren’t wrong. Weed control is a year-round process that requires specific strategies and treatments in the spring, summer, fall and winter. Every lawn has its own set of needs and challenges, and only a professional can create a weed control treatment plan that’s right for your lawn. Read on to learn more about the importance of seasonal weed control, and contact the experts at Personal Lawn Care to schedule an estimate for your home or business in Memphis.

Spring Weed Control

Without a proper treatment in early spring, you can find yourself “in the weeds” all year long. The springtime calls for pre-emergent weed control, meaning, you guessed it, treatments applied before weeds start popping up in your grass. It’s easy to wait until weeds emerge, but like all things, it’s better to be proactive. To be most effective, your first weed control treatment should occur before your grass turns green. At Personal Lawn Care, we use the latest technology to create a barrier in the soil that prevents the majority of pesky springtime weeds from showing up. Want to start the year off on-the-right-foot? Contact us to schedule an estimate.

Summer Weed Control

The season of barbecues and get-togethers is the most important time to keep your lawn healthy and green. Your first summer weed control treatment should occur early in the season, ideally in the late spring. To begin, you will need to remove any weeds that have shown up since your spring session, but if it was done correctly the majority of your time will be spent continuing the pre-emergent treatments to prevent late-summer breakthroughs. When you hire Personal Lawn Care, our experts will also target difficult weeds and problem areas in your yard during this weed control service. Don’t let weeds crash your summer parties — get in touch with us today!

Fall/ Winter Weed Control

As the weather starts to cool off, it’s easy to forget about weed control. However, allowing the fall to pass without treating your weeds can make your next cycle much more difficult. Plus, resilient weeds still grow in the winter if nothing is done to keep them from germinating. At Personal Lawn Care, we will treat your lawn to ensure that you start off on the right foot next spring.

It’s easy to become intimidated by the year-long battle with weeds, but hiring the weed control experts at Personal Lawn Care will keep your yard healthy and beautiful throughout the seasons. To best fit the budget and needs of our customers, we offer our Total Care Service package and A La Carte services for your property. Total Care Service customers can reach out to us throughout the year for touch ups if needed, and we offer touch ups for 30 days after an A La Carte service. Keep up with our blog for more weed control information and tips, and get in touch with us today to schedule an estimate!

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Summer Tips for Lawn Care and Maintenance – Pt. Two

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 17:02:00 GMT

Summer in Memphis is in full-swing. The hot sun is beating down on our yards and if you don’t take the right measures to keep your grass healthy, you will soon be flying the brown, patchy flag of a neglected lawn. In the second part of our series – Summer Tips for Lawn Care and Maintenance – we share three more tips that will help you create a pleasant and inviting yard for you and your loved ones to enjoy this summer. Be sure to read part one , and get in touch with the experts at Personal Lawn Care for all of your needs in the Memphis area.

It’s Not How Much You Water Your Lawn, It’s How You Do It

When you think of summer lawn care, watering is the first thing that comes to mind. Watering is extremely important, but it has to be done right to be effective. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Water Early in the Day – Rise and shine! Watering early in the morning helps your grass be more heat-resistant throughout the day. If you water late in the day, your lawn won’t completely dry before the sun goes down, making it fertile ground for pests and fungal diseases. Bonus points if you have an automatic irrigation system — just set your timer for 5am and sleep in!
Water Deeply Two to Three Times a Week – it’s so hot out, and you’re worried about your grass, but watering a little bit every day isn’t the answer. Instead, give it a deep, one-to-two inches of water a couple times a week. Like all aspects of lawn care, consistency is key here, so set your irrigation system accordingly and keep an eye on your grass to track its progress.
Inspect Your Watering System – Whether you are using an automated irrigation system or doing the watering yourself, monitoring your equipment is crucial for successful lawn care in the summer. Be sure to check your valve-boxes for water, and be on the lookout for leaking sprinklers — both signs that your valves need to be repaired or replaced. If you are concerned about the effectiveness of your system, call the pros at Personal Lawn Care and schedule a free consultation.

Treat Spots Caused By Pet Waste

We love our furry friends, but nobody likes the unsightly yellow and brown spots that dog urine leaves on your grass. It’s always a good idea to have a bottle of pet urine spray on hand to help restore these areas, but there are a few measures you can take that won’t cost you a dime:

Drink up, Buddy! – In this heat, your dog should be drinking more water than normal anyways, and the more water your dog drinks, the more diluted the nitrogen concentration of their urine will be. Concentrated levels of nitrogen in dog urine is what damages your lawn.
Spray with Water – hosing down the area with a spray of water after your dog does their business also helps to dilute the urine and combat the effects of nitrogen on your grass.
Train Your Dog to Go in One Area – teach your pup to use a specific area of the lawn to relieve themselves, and take them out there every time. This will limit the time you need to spend treating pet spots, and give you more time for other important parts of your lawn care routine.

Follow the summer lawn care tips from this post and part one of this series to foster and maintain an incredible and inviting space in your yard this summer. Personal Lawn Care offers custom lawn care , weed control , and fertilizer services in the Memphis area – get in touch with us today to schedule a free consultation.

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Summer Tips for Lawn Care and Maintenance – Pt. One

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 16:47:00 GMT

Nothing says “summer in the South” quite like a BBQ or neighborhood hangout on your fresh cut lawn. That being said, no one wants to invite their friends, family, or coworkers over to stand around on dead, brown patches of grass. Proper lawn care is about more than having green grass, it’s about setting a stage where you and your guests can relax and create lasting memories. In part one of this two-part series, we share three lawn care tips that will help you cultivate and maintain a healthy, inviting yard this summer — and if you want to beat the heat and leave it to the pros, get in touch with the experts at Personal Lawn Care in Memphis!

Start With a Strong Foundation

Like all things, proper lawn care starts from the ground-up. Fertilizing your lawn early in the summer can give you grass that is more resistant to heat and can last longer without water. For this to be successful, however, you need to use the right kind of fertilizer in the right amounts. Even if you have the right fertilizer, applying too much can kill your grass, so this can be a dangerous line to walk. If you want to get this right the first time – instead of waiting for a redo next summer – get in touch with Personal Lawn Care for a free estimate. With affordable pricing and a shining reputation in Memphis and the surrounding areas, you’ll be surprised how cost-effective and stress-free professional lawn care can be.

Hate it Dry? Mow High!

Direct sunlight isn’t the only thing that sucks the moisture out of grass, weeds do too! When you cut your grass short, you expose the earth to more sunlight, which boosts the growth of weeds and helps them spread. The more weeds you have and the stronger they are, the more your grass has to compete with them for the precious moisture that keeps it alive all summer. When you cut your grass high, the blades help shield the earth from excessive sunlight and slow the germination of weeds. Plus, a higher cut supports strong root growth. If you want resilient, heat-tolerant grass, “mow high” needs to be your new lawn care mantra.

Pest Control Treatments

From fleas and ticks, to crickets, billbugs, spiders, and turf-damaging grubs, there is no shortage of pests during the summertime in Memphis. To face them, you will need to become the Michael Jordan of pest control — mastering both “grub and soil” insects, and the disease carrying pests that haunt the surface of your lawn. If you think growing grass can get specific, wait until you learn all the different ways that you have to treat specific pests. Not that you can’t do it. We believe in you. We also believe that calling Personal Lawn Care will save you hundreds of dollars on different insecticides, and hours, if not seasons, of trial and error.

That’s all for part one of our Summer Tips for Lawn Care series. Stay tuned in for part two, and get in touch with the experts at Personal Lawn Care for a lawn that will make a summer you’ll never forget.

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Wondering Why Your Warm-Season Grass Is Not Greening Up?

Wed, 20 May 2020 13:42:00 GMT

The lawns in the Memphis area are very slow greening up this spring. Regardless of whether a lawn is Zoysia or Bermuda, warm-season turf is taking longer than normal to reach their lush green summer growth because of the long, cool, wet springtime that we’ve experienced. For further explanation of this phenomenon, please read the following article published by North Carolina State University:

Cool Spring Has Slowed Growth of Warm-Season Turfgrasses

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Cold Damage May Be Affecting Your Crape Myrtles

Thu, 14 May 2020 16:06:00 GMT

This article is being reproduced with permission from Woodland Tree Service.

In mid-November, the south experienced an early hard freeze with temperatures dropping into the mid 20’s, causing cold damage to many plants in this area. Because plants need adequate time to adjust to cold temperatures, or harden off, an early frost can leave unprotected root systems, as well as new growth, stimulated by late summer pruning or fertilization, very susceptible.

This year, the mid-south also experienced a frost in late March, after warmer temperatures had already began to stimulate the production of new growth, which caused more damage to the tender emerging foliage.

Signs of cold damage are often not evident until months later, and reduced flowering is common during the following season. Leaves subject to chilling temperatures often appear to be water soaked and wilted, and the tips of narrow leaved evergreens may turn uniformly brown. This year, many of our clients are reporting injury to their crepe myrtles as a result of cold damage. The trees are slow leafing out and many have tip dieback.

Other types of damage caused by these weather conditions include bark splitting – splitting of the stem or bark, typically near the base of a plant. This occurs when the plant begins to come out of dormancy due to unseasonably warm weather during the winter, as was the case in West TN, followed by a hard frost, as we saw in March. With bark splitting, split stems and branches should be pruned to unaffected growth, but if the damage occurs at the crown/base, the plant may not survive.

Frost cracks – a long, narrow and deep crack running up and down the trunk of a tree, may also occur when the changing weather causes a fluctuation in a tree’s contraction rates. We see this often in Japanese Maples, as it is most common in trees with smooth bark.

Desiccation, or drying out, can also occur in the winter months when the ground is frozen beyond the depth of the root system. If the fall has been dry, there may not have been enough ground moisture available to the plant during the winter months. This type of damage is most common in evergreen plants and can appear as discolored or burned evergreen needles and leaves.

As a result of the fluctuating weather conditions, cold damage is now appearing throughout the mid-south. If you notice changes to your plants and trees as they begin to bloom this spring, give us a call to schedule a visit from our Plant Health Care expert, who can properly diagnose the type of damage and begin working on a treatment plan to restore and protect them from further injury.

Woodland Tree Service

1831 Titus Rd
Memphis, TN 38111

(901) 309-6779

www.woodlandtree.com

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Lawn Care Tips: Winter Care for Memphis Lawns

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 18:59:00 GMT

Do you need to tend to your lawn during winter? Absolutely! Caring for your lawn during the winter is actually a good preparation for greening up in the spring.

The best way to know how to maintain your lawn during this time of year is to have your soil analyzed. A soil analysis determines the nutrients available to your grass – the quantity of these nutrients will determine the amount of fertilizer needed while the acidity will determine the amount of lime you may need.

Fertilizer On Dormant Grass?

Grass roots continue to grow for several weeks after frost. Potassium is a nutrient important for root strength and food storage during winter. How much your lawn needs depends on the nutrient levels found in your soil.

Lime Application

Lime is applied to your soil when it is acidic. Soil acidity and the amount of lime your soil needs can be determined by a soil analysis.

Irrigation

Most lawns require less water when dormant, so reduce the amount of water you use (unless a specific need arises like fescue seeding). Putting too much water on your plants and lawn during winter might result in root rot.

Breathe

Plants need to breathe too. Get other plant debris, like fallen leaves, off of your lawn. These cover your grass which prevents them from getting enough sunlight and air to create food.

If you need to get your soil analyzed or any of the services mentioned above, contact Personal Lawn Care at ContactUs@PersonalLawnCare.com or (901) 829-4200 for more information!

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Common Lawn Diseases During Fall In Memphis

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 19:24:00 GMT

Fall is almost over and winter is just around the corner – what’s the status of your lawn care? There are common lawn diseases to look out for that might start during the fall and continue through winter into early spring.

One variable that allows these diseases to occur is the type of grass that you have. There are two main types of grasses that we use for our turf: cool season grasses and warm season grasses. It is usually the warm season grasses that are affected by these diseases during the fall and winter, as grasses in this category thrive better in warm weather.

The major warm season grasses include Bahia, Bermuda, Centipede, St. Augustine, and Zoysia. Of these, Bermuda and Zoysia is most common to the mid-south. Depending upon the weather and other conditions, we might anticipate fall turf diseases to occur.

The most common diseases you might see this fall are Zoysia patch or large patch, take-all root rot, dollar spot and fairy ring. Zoysia patch or large patch is characterized by circular patches that start with a rusty orange circle in Zoysia that has been over-watered or over-fertilized with nitrogen fertilizers. The patch turns yellow, then reddish brown, brown or straw-colored as the grass dies. This is common in Zoysia grass, especially in the wet and low temperature weather during fall.

Take-all root rot is a fungal disease that is usually more common in spring or early summer but can occur any time of the year under circumstances that might have stressed the lawn, especially in areas where the soil remains water soaked. This is characterized by brown dead spots which may result in thinning grass if left untreated. This disease usually affects Bermuda and St. Augustine.

Dollar spot commonly occurs during the summer and fall, affecting both warm and cool season grasses. This disease often appears when nitrogen fertilizer is low and it is characterized by small, silver dollar-sized spots that are white to light tan in color. It shows white lesions on the leaves which causes the leaf to die and later causes white patches. Many times, the first treatment for dollar spot is simply to fertilize with an appropriate nitrogen containing fertilizer.

Fairy ring often times can be seen in the early fall as the turf begins to slow its growth. This fungal pathogen tends to grow in a circle or ring that dies out in a pattern that resembles a lawn where a tire has been left in the grass. Aerating these rings and applying fungicide with a wetting agent will begin the recovery process.

What can you do? Best practice is to reduce the risk of turf disease by mowing according to the recommended height for your type of grass and monitoring irrigation frequency and volume. Our technicians monitor your lawn for issues all during the year. By applying the proper types and amounts of fertilizer as recommended throughout the year, we can help avoid many issues.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so let’s not wait until our turf dies before we jump into action. For best results, contact Personal Lawn Care for recommendations on how you can care for your grass any time of the year.

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Different Types of Turf

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 18:37:00 GMT

C aring for your lawn begins with knowing your turf type

One of the first things you need to know in order to have the yard-of-the-month lawn we all crave is the type of turf you have. There are three main turf types common to the mid-south: Bermuda, Zoysia and Fescue.

Some other turf types found in the mid-south include St. Augustine and Centipede. These turf types are more commonly found along the southern Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. Occasionally, ryegrasses are utilized in specific situation to provide winter color or coverage.

Each grass thrives in a particular set of conditions. By knowing the type of grass you have, we can care for it properly. Weed control and prevention, fertility needs, irrigation practices, insect and disease preventions vary between types and even among cultivars of the same species.

Bermuda

Bermuda is a warm season grass perfect for lawns, sports turf or recreation areas. It is drought-tolerant and is used to prevent erosion.

Bermuda makes for strong, wear resistant turf that recovers well from environmental stresses. It performs well in a wide range of soil acidity, even at low fertility levels.

Bermuda is an incredibly hardy turf, as long as it gets enough sunlight. Bermuda turf needs full sun to minimal shade for 5+ hours per day. Bermuda will not grow if it does not receive enough sunlight.

During the growing season in the mid-south, Bermuda lawns need about 1 inch of rainfall or irrigation equivalent per week. During peak growth period or extreme heat, more irrigation may be necessary. Irrigation is rarely needed when Bermuda is dormant.

If you have an established Bermuda lawn that isn’t growing well, you may want to consider these issues:

– Amount of sunlight : this is often the key reason for thin or weak Bermuda. If sunlight is your issue, you may want to consider trimming trees or changing turf types.

– Irrigation : Bermuda is hardy, but too much or too little moisture will cause stress. If moisture is your issue, check for improper drainage so you don’t have standing water or large soggy areas and consider an irrigation system to keep water evenly applied.

– Soil Conditions : Bermuda can grow in a wide range of soil conditions (acidity, organic matter etc.), but some lawns in the mid-south fall outside of the range even Bermuda can handle. If you suspect soil issues, contact our office for a soil analysis.

Fescue

Fescue is a cool season grass typically found in shaded areas of the mid-south. Fescue is a bunching grass that forms clumps as it matures. Fescues are used for residential lawns, pasture or wildlife reclamation areas, often mixed with Bermuda or other warm-season grasses. Fescue grows well in the spring and fall but homeowners often find it difficult to establish a satisfactory fescue-only lawn. The most common factors causing poor results are compacted clay soils, improper mowing and watering, planting or re-seeding at the wrong time of year, over fertilization or excessive herbicide use.

Fescue requires minimal direct sunlight, so establishing fescue in areas that are too shady to support Bermuda or Zoysia is quite common. Typically, the areas are tilled or aerated and seeded in early fall (September) or late winter (March). Killing off other grasses may not be needed if the existing turf is thin. As the new fescue grows, the old turf dies due to the competition for sunlight and moisture from the new fescue seedlings. Fescue is not considered invasive and is relatively easy to control with systemic or contact herbicide.

Fescue should be seeded in areas receiving 3+ hours of low to medium intensity filtered light with little to no high intensity direct sunlight.

Fescues require specific watering based on turf growth, rainfall etc. An irrigation system may be required to properly maintain watering in fescue areas. Extended drought periods frequently kill fescue turf. Irrigation may need to occur morning and evening at short intervals to maintain surface moisture and facilitate cooling during summer months. Spring and Fall periods of high growth may require close monitoring to determine exact needs for specific lawn areas.

Zoysia

Zoysia is a warm-season turf that thrives in full sun and partially shaded areas. Zoysia grasses typically need 4+ hours of sunlight, although some varieties thrive in low intensity, filtered sunlight areas or areas with as little as 3 hours of light per day. It makes an excellent, thick turf and is wear resistant and drought tolerant. Zoysia is considered an upgrade or more desirable grass. It has made its mark in many smaller, more heavily landscaped urban and suburban lawns. Numerous Zoysia varieties are available, most are established from sod or springs. Some seeded varieties are available, although initiating a Zoysia lawn from seed is often difficult due to the long germination time and the difficulty of caring for the fragile seedlings until they mature and spread to form turf. Zoysia spreads by stolons (above ground runners) and rhizomes (underground runners).

If you are interested in changing turf types, Zoysia can be killed by systemic herbicides, though it usually requires several applications to ensure all above and below ground plant parts are killed. Once killed, the areas can be tilled and seeded or sodded with a different cultivar of Zoysia or a different turfgrass species. Zoysia is not considered invasive, though it does spread.

Zoysia may be susceptible to insect and disease issues. A properly maintained Zoysia lawn should be closely monitored for signs of stress and a preventative insecticide and fungicide application is often suggested. Irrigation should be timed after sunrise. Extended periods of wet leaves and soil can cause or enhance disease development.

For more information on turf types, or to address insect or disease issues in your lawn, please contact our office at ContactUs@PersonalLawnCare.com or (901) 829-4200

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Going Beyond The Green

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 17:28:00 GMT

When you think fertilizer you probably think green, but any master gardener will tell you that fertilizer goes far beyond the green.

By applying the right ratio of fertilizer components at the right time, you can keep that beautiful neighbor-envying green later into the fall, have earlier and stronger green-up in the spring, and reduce the chance of summer turf diseases.

Look at any fertilizer bag and you will see the standard 3 numbers (ex. 13-13-13 , 0-0-60, 12-0-0). These numbers represent the percentage of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium in that particular bag of fertilizer. These three components offer your turf three different things, which is why timing is so important.

Nitrogen : Probably the most familiar fertilizer component, nitrogen is responsible for the beautiful deep green color we are all looking for in mid-summer. Nitrogen is important for turf health. If you are experiencing slow growth or thin turf, a nitrogen deficiency may be at fault. But more often, excess nitrogen will be your issue. Putting too much nitrogen on your turf can cause poor root growth and increased susceptibility to some diseases.

Phosphorous : While not as glamorous as nitrogen, phosphorous is essential to your turf. Phosphorous encourages strong root growth and gives young plants the power they need to survive. Too much phosphorous can cause runoff which can have a negative impact on water quality.

Potassium : The third, but arguably most important fertilizer component. Potassium helps your turf run efficiently. Without potassium, your turf won’t even have a chance to use the nitrogen its been given. If your turf were an engine, potassium would be the oil, running through the whole system to keep everything working at top efficiency.

The ideal time to fertilize your lawn is mid-spring through late fall/early winter. At first glance it is hard to understand what good fertilizer does for a dormant lawn, but remember that green is only one part of the picture.

If you fertilize too early in the year, you can cause root weakness and can invite disease issues. But by applying phosphorous and potassium-rich fertilizers during the late fall and early winter months, you can strengthen roots and prepare your turf for an amazing spring green-up.

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Top 5 Things to Know About Scalping Your Lawn

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 23:15:00 GMT

Scalping your lawn is the practice of cutting your lawn extremely short during certain times of the year. Scalping removes the standing dead stems and leaves that are left over from the last growing season. This dead material (especially the stems) can contribute to thatch buildup. Too much thatch can: increase fungal infections; harbor overwintering insects that want to attack your lawn; keep water and fertilizer from penetrating the soil and enhancing new growth; and prevent weed controls from being incorporated into the soil. Scalping will also allow the sunlight to reach the soil, helping it warm up faster and therefore giving you an earlier green-up.

Here are the top 5 things you should know about scalping:

You should scalp in late winter.:
- Scalp when the days have warmed above 50 degrees for a few days, the nights are 40 or above, and the 10-day forecast has no temps below freezing.
Scalping should be done at the lowest height possible without damaging the grass:
- Set your mower to the lowest height possible that allows the removal of the maximum amount of dead grass without digging into the crown of the grass (where the grass meets the soil.)
- Typically, if your soil surface if not very smooth, the second notch of your mower should work well. If your soil surface is smooth, you may be able to cut on the lowest mower setting.
Scalping will not damage your Bermuda or Zoysia lawn as long as you don’t cut into the crown of the grass:
- When your mower is set to the proper height, scalping is incredibly beneficial and will not damage your lawn.
- Fescue lawns should NOT be scalped unless you are about to renovate them (aerate or slit then reseed.) St. Augustine and Centipede can be damaged if the mowing is low enough to lift the stolons (runners), so more care must be used.
Don’t listen to misinformation about scalping:
- There is a lot of misinformation online regarding scalping that is likely a result of:
- an unfamiliarity with the nature and cycles of warm season turf
- a perception of how low or when to scalp
- an accurate assessment IF dealing with cool season grasses
- the source being familiar with golf course or sports turf facilities that have other means of thatch removal or reduction (i.e. verticutting or core aeration) and deal with turf being maintained at a much lower height than residential turf
- someone who is selling a product or service
When you scalp, be sure to remove the clippings:
- Removing the clippings is very important when scalping. Bagging, raking, vacuuming and blowing are all good methods of removing the debris left after scalping.
- During the year, the clippings are utilized by the soil microbes after the soil wards. But scalping would leave a very thick layer while the soil is still cool. This thick layer of dead material would overwhelm the microbes’ ability to digest the clippings and would likely increase the thatch buildup- exactly the opposite of the intended result.
- The clippings can be composted if the lawn has NOT been treated with herbicides in the last 8 week. However DO NOT USE THE COMPOST IN A GARDEN WHERE EDIBLES ARE GROWN. Some herbicides can persist in the grass and soil for up to 5 months or more, especially in the cooler times of the year. We recommend bagging the clippings and disposing of them.

So, if you have an established Bermuda or Zoysia lawn, know how low you can set your mower, and are prepared to remove the clippings, it is time to get out there and get to scalping!

If you have any questions please contact our office at ContactUs@PersonalLawnCare.com or (901) 829-4200

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Do my shrubs need dormant oil?

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 14:21:00 GMT

After the beautiful colors of fall have passed, and winter settles in, you may think that you can take a break from gardening. But what you do during the cold winter months can greatly impact your gardening success

If your landscaping has struggled with insect damage, dormant oil is a must. When plants are actively growing and flowers blooming, there are a number of insecticide options. But you also have a wonderful opportunity during the plant’s dormant period to really put a dent in those pesky insects.

Dormant oil is just what it says…oil. It is a highly refined mineral, paraffin or waxy-type oil that resembles baby oil. Dormant oil is considered one of the safest contact-type insecticides. Because of the purity of the oil and the relatively low rates at which it is applied, the risk of irritation or reaction is very minimal. Dormant oil is also chemical free, which is great for your family and the environment as well as being less toxic to beneficial insects.

Dormant oil works by spreading out and creating a thin layer over the entire plant’s surface. Any insects, eggs or larva will get coated and will not be able to survive. It is especially effective in controlling overwintering mites and certain scale insects. Dormant oil should be used as part of a comprehensive plant protection program, one of the preventive steps to helping the plant thrive to its fullest. Other cultural issues, environmental stressors or pathological pressures may exist that cause problems for the landscape plantings. These factors may be addressed individually, or may be treated collectively with an all-around maintenance package (which includes proper planting, mulching, pruning, plant selection, irrigation, fertilization, insect and disease control, etc.) No product can give you perfect insect control, but dormant oil is a safe, inexpensive and effective way to reduce the presence of cercertain.insects, but it is not a guarantee against all insect problems.

If you are considering applying dormant oil, the main thing to remember is timing. By definition, dormant oil is meant to be used when the plants are dormant, or not actively growing. If used at the wrong time of year, the oil can coat the leaves and clog the stomata (the pores on the leaf surfaces that allow carbon dioxide, water and oxygen to move into and out from the leaf) or cause a phytotoxic reaction on the leaf surface resulting in leaf burn. Certain lighter oils (summer oil) may be utilized, but only with caution and for specific insect control. Traditional insecticides can also be used as needed. Just be sure, as always, to read the label and follow directions. Some products require a certain amount of time between the dormant oil and insecticide applications for the plant’s protection.

(901) 829-4200

ContactUs@PersonalLawnCare.com

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The 411 on Dormant Oil

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 14:19:00 GMT

If you’re looking for an effective, safe, environmentally friendly way to manage insects on your trees and shrubs, dormant oil may be for you. Heres what you need to know…

1. Dormant oil is a highly refined paraffin or waxy-type oil, similar to baby oil.

2 It is considered one of the safest contact-type insecticides

3. It is chemical free and less toxic to beneficial insects

4. The oil works by creating a thin layer over the plant’s surface including any insects. eggs or larvae. The insects, eggs or larvae cannot get the oxygen they need and cannot survive.

5. The most important factor is timing. Dormant oil will damage any buds, leaves or flowers of the plant. It must be used after a plant goes dormant in the fall and before it begins to bud in the spring.

6. Dormant oil does not control all types of insects, but is very effective on most types that infest shrubs and trees

Dormant oil should be used as part of a comprehensive maintenance program. The dormant oil alone will not solve insect infestations, but it will give your landscaping a fighting chance. You may still use other insecticides during the growing season as needed. But, as always, be sure to read and follow label instructions!

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Maximize Your Investment by Liming

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 14:15:00 GMT

As a homeowner you take pride in your real estate investment. From mowing to flowerbeds to Christmas lights, you put a lot of time, effort and, most importantly, money into your outdoor living space. There is one aspect of your landscape plan that you may have overlooked… liming. Maintaining proper soil pH will not only provide the best growing environment for your turf, but it will also ensure you get the highest efficacy out of every weed control and fertilization application.

A lime application is indicated when your soil pH is beyond a certain range. pH is the measure of acidity in the soil. Most turf grasses prefer a pH between 6 and 7. If you have had a soil analysis done and your pH is outside of that range, then your lawn may be under unneccesary stress. When turf is stressed it may become thin and weak leading to disease issues and weed breakthrough. Bringing the pH back into an optimal range will help ensure that soil nutrients are easily available, encouraging strong growth.

So, for that lush, thick turf that is less susceptible to disease and gets the most efficiency from every weed control and fertilization application it will be worth your time, and especially your money, to get your soil analyzed and address any pH issues.

(901) 829-4200

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Why Lime?

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 14:14:00 GMT

Everyone is looking for a “leg up” on their neighbors when it comes to the best looking lawn. But sometimes you have to go beyond fertilizer and proper watering to get that lush green turf you want. Turf grass is actually quite sensitive when it comes to soil conditions. There has to be an appropriate balance of organic matter, minerals and pH (acidity). If you are having a high school chemistry back flash don’t panic, we’ll keep it simple! pH is simply the measure of how acidic something is on a scale of 1-14. The lower the number the more acidic, higher the number less acidic (more alkaline). Stomach Acid pH=1, Dill Pickles pH=5, Chocolate Milk pH=7, Antacid Tablets pH=11 … you get the idea.

Turf grasses want a pH between 6 and 7, outside of that range weed control products may not work properly, fertilizer might not be absorbed or used and turf is generally stressed out. There are several things that contribute to an acidic lawn: natural breakdown of leaves and dead grass, some fertilizers and rain water being the prime culprits. But there is no need to panic, there is a straightforward solution for an overly acidic lawn… lime.

Lime is simply ground and processed limestone. Ground limestone comes in several forms, but if you are a DIYer be sure to purchase lime designed for turf grass. It will be in a form most beneficial to soil. Now, before you go dumping bags of lime on your turf you need to know what the pH is and how much lime you should use. All you need is a soil analysis. To get your soil analyzed you just need a sample of your soil (small amounts taken from several different locations around your lawn). You can find labs in your area that test soil or contact your local extension office. Sometimes the reports you get back are a little in-depth, but they should all include the pH and lime recommendations.

If you are still stuck in that high school chemistry flash back, feel free to contact us and we will help you! If you would like a soil analysis or more information about lime, please contact our office, we’ll be happy to help!

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6 Turf Questions every DIYer Asks

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 14:11:00 GMT

If you are a classic Weekend Warrior when it comes to your outdoor living space, you have probably asked yourself the following questions:

4. If products aren’t safe for me to buy, how do I know they are safe for you to use around my family and pets?
The EPA and manufacturers have extensively tested the products as they are intended to be used, that is – at the diluted rates. The safety and efficacy must be determined before the products are approved for sale and use. Additionally, with most products, a surfactant is used. The surfactant is designed to allow thorough coverage of the target plant leaves. Not only does the surfactant ensure coverage, it can also aid in absorption into the leaves. Once absorbed, most products are utilized (similar to digesting food). Once a product is utilized it is transformed into things that are no longer a concern. The surfactant also helps the non-absorbing products to “stick” to the plant, making them difficult to dislodge and become contaminants. These non-absorbing products are typically pre-emergent weed controls. The products that stick to the outside of the plant are moved into and bind with the soil particles (where they are effective) with the next rainfall or irrigation cycle. Once in the soil, it is difficult to dislodge the products and cause a contamination issues. This is one reason that, whether you are a DIYer or have hired a professional, proper post-application watering is important.

5. What does a professional have to offer that I can’t get or do myself?
Most professionals have years of experience that are backed by the education, training, and the support of manufacturers, universities, state and local Agriculture Extension offices and trade industry organizations. Here at Personal Lawn Care, all of our technicians attend yearly seminars where new issues are addressed and products introduced, similar to continuing education credits required in other industries. With this network of support, virtually all problems quickly fall into the “seen it, covered it” category. Knowledge and experience allow a professional to quickly and effectively address problems. They often have specialized tools and equipment as well as the licensing or certifications required by governmental agencies. Professionals also carry insurance to protect their clients and themselves from problematic situations. So, from extensive specialized training to access to the most effective products, a professional lawn care company is a good fit for many homeowners.

6. Is a professional service really worth the money?
With the growth of the lawn care industry from its very humble beginnings in the mid 60’s and 70’s to its multi-billion dollar status today, it is obvious that both individual homeowners and corporate groups or entities find great value in the professional services they receive. By not having to purchase expensive equipment and chemicals or fertilizers, contracting with a professional service is initially much less costly that Weekend Warrior lawn care. Retail herbicide, insecticide, fungicide and fertilizer prices can carry quite a sticker-shock.

If your Outdoor Living Space is your hobby then a little research and some sweat-equity will carry you through even the toughest obstacles. But if you prefer to spend your weekends doing something other than slogging through your lawn in extreme heat and cold, then a professional service may be right for you. What could be better than knowing your lawn is being cared for while you are at the golf course, spending quality time with your friends and loved ones, or heading out to the lake?

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Personal Lawn Care Shrub Saver Program

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Personal Lawn Care Shrub Saver Program

A beautiful landscape is food for the soul

Personal Lawn Care has the solution. Get in touch today!
Contactus@personallawncare.com Facebook.com/PLCcares (901) 829-4200

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Invasion of the Armyworms!

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 07:10:00 GMT

INVASION!

Have you noticed chewed leaves and brown grass? Worms in your yard?

Uh-oh, you’ve got ARMYWORMS! What are armyworms and what do they do, you ask?

Armyworms DEVOUR almost everything in their path. The dry conditions of summer made the perfect breeding ground for moths to lay their eggs, and the recent wet weather (beneficial to the caterpillar’s survival) has encouraged the armyworms to emerge.

These destructive pests can CONSUME an entire lawn in a few days by moving en masse through your lawn – even crossing roads and driveways – to reach fresh grass. They love tender parts of the grass, stripping the leaves off the stems, but can chew the entire plant to the ground. This makes recovery SLOW and DIFFICULT.

Personal Lawn Care has the ammunition needed to stop this advancing army. Call us for help and RESCUE your lawn today! 901-829-4200

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9 Must-Dos for Fescue Seeding Success

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 13:50:00 GMT

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A Springtime Cut Could Save You a Bundle: 7 Ways Properly Scalping Can Reduce Lawn Maintenance Costs

Thu, 16 Mar 2017 14:15:00 GMT

A springtime cut could save you a bundle! Here are seven ways properly scalping can reduce lawn maintenance costs:

Green with Envy: Removing old, brown growth will help your lawn be the first to green up this spring.
Thatch-versary: Bagging the clippings when you scalp will help slow down thatch accumulation. A thick thatch layer is expensive and time consuming to remove. Prevention is the best medicine.
A Deep Breath: Just like you need the right amount of oxygen to feel your best, your lawn does, too. A thick mat of dead grass will reduce oxygen available to the roots of your turf, weakening it and leaving it vulnerable.
Most bang for your buck: Imagine, you spend good money on a lawn maintenance service or DIY products only to have them run into the gutter at the next rain due to your thatch overgrowth! Scalping will allow for better penetration of weed control and fertilization products.
De-Bugging: Insect control and prevention can hit your wallet hard. Scalping not only removes places for the pesky little buggers to hide, but also gives your turf a fighting chance.
Health 101: A strong lawn is a healthy lawn. By increasing oxygen and water to the soil you help to ensure a strong vibrant lawn that is more disease resistant. As Benjamin Franklin once said “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Stretching Out: When your lawn is healthy, vibrant, and doesn’t have to compete with an overgrowth of thatch, it can put its time and energy into spreading out and working its way toward the thick, lush carpet every homeowner wants from their lawn.

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Scalping: 6 Dos to Ensure You’re Doing it Right

Mon, 13 Mar 2017 14:17:00 GMT

Once you start to feel that “Ahhhh… spring is coming” feeling, it is time to start thinking about scalping your lawn. Scalping means cutting your lawn at the lowest possible mower setting. If you scalp too early, you risk damaging roots due to being exposed to the cold. Too late, you may scalp off new growth (which totally defeats the purpose). Ideal times for scalping Bermuda and Zoysia lawns fall somewhere between late February and mid-March.

The reason not to scalp in the Fall is that your lawn needs a “winter coat.” That layer of extra grass helps to insulate the roots and ensures strong spring growth.

Scalping is a recommended practice in the spring for most grass types. While your lawn may look a little exposed at first, in the end you are getting last year’s growth out of the way so the young spring growth can make a strong début.

While scalping can be very beneficial to your yard, it can also cause damage if done improperly.

Follow theses 6 steps to ensure you are scalping properly.

If your lawn is fescue you should NEVER scalp! Scalping fescue lawns can be devastating. It will seriously inhibit the growth and resiliency.
Scalp only between late February and mid-March. Scalping too early can reduce the natural insulation grass gives itself, while scalping too late risks damaging early growth.
Set your mower on the lowest setting possible for your lawn. If your lawn is glassy smooth, then you can go to your mower’s lowest setting. For the rest of us, pay attention to the hips and dips. Even if it means a couple of passes, the best practice is to work your mower down slowly to ensure you are getting the closest cut without plowing into the dirt in the high spots.
Bag your clippings. While mulching clippings the rest of the year is good practice, you definitely want to bag them when you scalp your lawn. The goal is to carry off the old growth, not mulch your lawn with it.
Take your time and do it right. While scalping may be a bit more time consuming than your mid-season trims, it is an investment that will pay big dividends. If a thick, green, healthy lawn is the goal, don’t cut corners on this step!
Sit back and watch your neighbors turn green with envy! Properly scalping will help ensure your lawn is fit and ready for any challenge this season can throw at it.

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Fireweed: The Pesky Springtime Weed

Mon, 09 May 2016 19:59:00 GMT

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Managing Tree Seedlings

Mon, 09 May 2016 19:55:00 GMT

It is officially SPRING! Along with pretty flowers and green grass, here in the mid-south it also means that tree seedlings will be sprouting. Tree seedlings can be found in most yards this time of year because, just like their partner in crime fireweed, they germinate in the thatch layer of your lawn, not in the soil. Therefore, pre-emergent treatments are less effective.

Also, those little tree seeds have a lot of stored energy in them and they can’t wait to start growing into a new tree! Once these little guys have sprouted, they can be controlled by post-emerge herbicides and by simply mowing.

What should you do as the homeowner? Mow your lawn. Not only will this make things look better, but it will also rob the seedlings of the ability to continue to grow by eliminating those tiny little leaves. We are currently applying the second weed control as well as a liquid fertilizer at this time. We will be there soon.

If you have any questions, check out our website at www.personallawncare.com or call us at 901-829-4200.

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Irrigation: What, When, Why

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 14:24:00 GMT

Whether you are using an installed irrigation system or a manual (eg. sprinkler or hand watering) irrigation system, there are several points to consider to keep your lawn healthy and vibrant.

How much water? For established grass, once the temperatures get into the 80’s, Cullen recommends 1” of water in each area once a week. A great way to measure this is to take an empty can (soup, vegetable, coffee etc.) and set it within the sprinkler range when watering. Water for about 30min. Take a ruler and measure the amount of water in the can, if it is less than 1”, water for an additional 15-20min. Once you know the amount of time needed to reach 1” of water, then your irrigation procedure is simplified.
How often? There are several different points of view when it comes to the frequency of watering. Frequency depends on how established your lawn is, the type of turf, and disease susceptibility. Generally, you will want to water when you can go out and kneel down on your lawn and you knee comes up dry or just slightly moist.
When should I water? Watering in the middle of the day will cause a lot of the water you are putting down to evaporate. It will also cause the leaves to expand to take up all of the water which can leave them susceptible to burns from the midday sun. Watering over night can lead to disease issues (fungus etc.) due to the fact that the grass will stay moist for several hours. The goal is to have the soil moist, but the leaves should be fairly dry. The best time of day to water is between 5:00 and 9:00 am. This will allow the soil to soak up the water before it evaporates, but the leaves will dry quickly, minimizing disease issues.

So… (1) Water 1” per area. (2) Water when you can kneel down on your lawn without getting your knee wet (or only slightly moist). (3) Water between 5:00am and 9:00am. For specific recommendations for your lawn, contact your local extension office or lawn care professional.

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6 Things to Do Before Seeding Fescue

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 14:25:00 GMT

1. Know Your pH

Testing your soil 6 to 8 weeks before you plant will allow your tiny seedlings the most comfortable environment in which to spread their tender roots. To learn more about soil testing, check with this soil test guide.

2. Remove Debris

Look for anything on or just below the soil (i.e. wood, pipe, rock, discarded cement, brush, construction scrap) that may obstruct the growth of fescue roots and restrict soil water movement. These items should be removed.

3. Weed Control

Eliminating existing weeds before you plant ensures that the new seed isn’t competing for water or nutrients. To learn more about weed control, check out this garden guide or contact your local lawn and landscape professional.

4. Break Ground

The UT Extension office suggests tilling the ground where you are planning to plant to a depth of about 6 inches. This is also a great opportunity to throw in fertilizer or lime (as directed by your soil sample results.)

5. Smooth and Water

After tilling, smooth out the soil to a uniform consistency and, if the soil seems very dry, water (yes, you are watering dirt) several days before planting.

6. Now sit back and let it all settle

You know your new ground is ready for your precious new grass when you step on the area and your footprint is less than one inch deep.

Now you’re ready to plant!

Recomended by The UT extension office

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Dormant Fertilizations

Mon, 07 Sep 2015 14:27:00 GMT

Why do I need to fertilize when my grass is dormant?

Now that we have all put away our sprinklers and lawn mowers for the winter, you might be wondering why your lawn would need fertilizer if the grass is dormant and no longer growing. That is an excellent question!

First, grass roots continue to grow for several weeks after frost. The roots grow more slowly as the soil temperatures cool but they are still growing. There are three major nutrients in fertilizer – nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Nitrogen is for green and grow, phosphorus for flower and fruit and potassium is for root and shoot.

Our dormant fertilization contains only one nutrient – potassium. Potassium is a key component for root strength and food storage for the winter. It also helps with wear and stress resistance. Since potassium doesn’t leach out of the root zone it is better able to be taken into the soil to be available for root growth both now and in the spring time. This can help turf recover from stress damage from the previous year and is also part of the preparation for green up in the spring.

So, if you look outside and see your friendly Personal Lawn Care technician all bundled up and pushing a spreader across your yard, just remember that this is getting your sleepy turf ready for an awesome growing season in 2015!

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Wildflower Gardening Part 1: Common-Sense Gardening

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 14:28:00 GMT

What’s the latest news about gardening? It’s native plants (wildflowers).

It is high time to have a focused discussion about native plants: Common sense gardening, doing it mother nature’s way.

Native plants offer us a wonderful alternative to transplants brought in from other parts of the country. We can reduce our workload because nature is remarkably self-sufficient. After all, they’ve been taking care of themselves for a long, long time.

With wildflowers and native plants you’ll be able to create natural habitats that welcome a variety of beautiful and colorful wildlife to your garden. Not only will you and your children enjoy this touch of nature, but friends and neighbors will want to come appreciate it too.

One of the best ways to get “back to nature” is bring nature to you!

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Know How to Defend Yourself against BAGWORMS!

Sat, 06 Jun 2015 14:40:00 GMT

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What Your Lawn Needs, and What Happens When It Can’t Get It

Thu, 21 May 2015 14:44:00 GMT

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White Grubs: Silent Grass Killers

Thu, 21 May 2015 14:44:00 GMT

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Shade Getting You Down?

Wed, 20 May 2015 14:45:00 GMT

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How to Prune Crape Myrtles without Committing Crape Murder

Sat, 18 Apr 2015 14:48:00 GMT

In early spring (usually February through March) we start thinking about pruning our Crape Myrtles. Proper pruning can result in a healthy, visually pleasing shrub. If done improperly, you risk insect and disease issues as well as an undesirable look to your shrub. (They are botanically considered a shrub.)

There are three aspects to consider when caring for Crape Myrtles:

1. Choose the right tree: Types of Crape Myrtles (known as cultivars) vary from the 3-5’ Chickasaw that produces pink/lavender flowers with bronze fall leaves, to the Red Rocket that grows to over 20’ and produces cherry red flowers with orange/red leaves in the fall. If you choose a tall cultivar in a small space you are setting yourself up for difficult pruning.

Unfortunately, most of us inherit our Crape Myrtles. At that point you have two options: transplant your current tree and replace it with an appropriate cultivar or, take the time and attention to prune your current cultivar into compliance.

2. Decide what you want: Before you grab your pruning saw and start hacking away at branches, take a step back and decide what your goal is. Bob Polomski with the Extension Office at Clemson University suggests light pruning, depending on the size and shape desired. He suggests the following steps:

To develop a tree shape

remove all limbs growing from ground level except the three to five strongest
as the tree matures, remove lower, lateral branches one-third to halfway up height of the plant
remove branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other
remove shoots growing into the center of the canopy
Maintenance: remove lower branches as needed

To keep it at a manageable height:

prune moderately
remove all twiggy growth back to lower growing side branches

You want a low, compact plant:

prune the stems back to about six inches above the ground each year

3. Pruning for health: while Crape Myrtles are resilient and usually thrive when left alone in a hot, sunny environment, some pruning can be a valuable tool to fight disease. By removing dead or defective branches, branches that cross over each other, and some of the small branches within the canopy of the shrub (to provide “breathing room”), you give your tree a fighting chance against insects and disease.

4. Don’t Over-do it: One common practice is to cut lateral branches down to stubs. While this does restrict the size of the tree, it weakens the tree and can cause insect, disease and winter damage. Prune carefully, don’t commit crape murder.

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8 Reasons Weed-‘N’-Feed May Not Be Right for You

Sat, 18 Apr 2015 14:46:00 GMT

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Are Your Moles under Control?

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 14:51:00 GMT

If you have ever walked across your lawn and thought you were walking on a sponge or looked across your manicured outdoor living space and thought a group of miniature miners were building tunnels looking for gold, then you might have moles.

Moles are small mammals that feed primarily on insects (grubs, earthworms, etc.). They are small (4-8” on average), have a long snout, web-like clawed feet perfect for digging, and are grayish in color with velvety fur.

Moles can be a homeowner’s nemesis. Not only are their tunnels unsightly, they can also damage the turf you are working so hard to perfect. Moles are surprisingly resilient and difficult to control. By understanding more about a mole’s lifestyle, there may be hope for your lawn.

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Everything You Need to Know to Have a Beautiful Lawn

Wed, 08 Apr 2015 14:53:00 GMT

1. Choose Wisely (just like mama said)

No matter what you do, if you have the wrong type of grass for your area of the country or your lawn’s specific needs, the lawn will be mediocre at best. Lawn professionals in our area are familiar with the grasses that grow well in the different lawn settings. Full-sun large lawns, north-sloping lawns under large trees, partially shaded patio lawns – each may require a different turf type or a specific variety.

2. Water…Water…Water (but not too much)

Most people know that the proper amount of water is an important factor if they want a thick, lush and healthy lawn. But most of us don’t know how much to water or why. In the Mid-South, our lawns typically need an average of 1 to 1 ½ inches of rainfall (or irrigation equivalent) per week during the growing season. This will allow the water to provide several “services” for your lawn:

Insulation: Water actually helps insulate grass from sudden temperature changes. It also acts as a “radiator” keeping the grass cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter (yes, your lawn needs water even in the winter if the soil becomes dry and crumbly).
Nutrition: Water is the medium that carries food to the leaves of the grass. Nutrients move from the soil, into the roots. Then it’s the water that carries the nutrients and stored sugars from the roots throughout the plant. If the plant doesn’t have enough water, it won’t be able to “feed” the whole plant
Root Development: Watering properly can stimulate the roots into growing deeper. The deeper the roots grow, the more stress a plant can withstand without significant damage. It’s not a guarantee that your lawn will survive a hot, dry summer, but it will give it every possible opportunity to thrive. This is why watering less often and more deeply is beneficial to healthy root growth.

3. Nutrition: “Feed Me, Please!”

A lawn needs five basic nutrients – Carbon, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium – along with several trace minerals. Each nutrient supports a different aspect of the plant and plant development. This is why lawn care professionals suggest several fertilizations throughout the year. Fertilizers are classified by three numbers – the first showing the percentage of Nitrogen (N), the second showing the percentage of Phosphorus (P), and the third showing the percentage of Potassium (K). A typical lawn fertilizer may be labelled “25-5-10”. This means the bag contains 25% Nitrogen, 5% Phosphorous and 10% Potassium. It has been said “Nitrogen to green and grow, Phosphorous for flower and fruit and Potassium for root and shoot.” If you provide these basic nutrients you will be giving your lawn the best fighting chance possible.

Carbon in the soil helps to keep it loose and crumbly, therefore holding moisture and giving the roots an ideal environment for growth. Carbon is best found in organic matter (decaying leaves and grass clippings, compost, etc.). Organic matter helps make the lawn more drought resistant.
Oxygen helps the plant break down food so it can get to the energy inside. Without oxygen, you could provide premium fertilizer and your lawn will still struggle to survive.
Nitrogen simply helps your plant grow and provides that deep green color every neighbor envys. If your lawn is deficient in nitrogen, it may appear off-color and stunted. Much of the stored nitrogen supply in a lawn is housed in the leaves. Every time you cut your lawn and bag the clippings, you are taking away a portion of the nitrogen. This is one reason why most lawn professionals recommend mulching clippings in place on the turf.
Phosphorus is a necessary component of photosynthesis and is used in reproduction. In the Mid-South, phosphorous is usually plentiful in our soils. Many fertilizer blends reduce or eliminate phosphorous from the mix unless the fertilizer is for newly seeded or sodded lawns.
Potassium (potash) is a multifaceted nutrient. It helps plants develop healthy roots, stems and leaves. Potassium also increases disease resistance, improves carbohydrate storage and strengthens wear tolerance. Plus potassium allows better stress management and helps increase root mass by encouraging root development.

4. Sunlight: Key to a “bright” future

If you think back to high school biology class you can probably remember little green squigglez your teacher told you turn sunlight to energy. Though it sounded funny at the time, that little piece of information is going to be the cornerstone to your lawn successes. Your lawn MUST have sunlight. The amount of sunlight can be all day, all morning or all afternoon, or filtered through the trees during the entire day. Different turf grasses require different amounts of sunlight.

Bermuda typically needs 5 to 6 hours or more sunlight per day. Zoysias will tolerate as little as four hours or more and fescues typically need two to three hours minimum sunlight per day.

5. Temperature: The Ups and Downs

Your lawn is surprisingly sensitive to temperature. Grasses are broken down into two main categories: cool season and warm season. It all depends on your zone. Here, in the Mid-South, we can support both cool season and warm season grasses…just at different times of year. Bermuda and Zoysia are warm season grasses. They prefer temperatures in the 80s or 90s, but do not like it when temperatures fall into the low 40s and into the 30s. That is why your bermuda and Zoysia will go dormant after frost (yes, the brown color is natural, it’s not dead). Fescue, on the other hand, is a cool season grass. It will struggle and barely make it through the hot summer only to explode into a vibrant green as soon as the temperatures dip into the 60s and we get some rainfall. Fescue will also stay green through the winter (making your bermuda neighbors jealous).

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Read Your Seed Like an Expert

Mon, 06 Apr 2015 15:04:00 GMT

The post Read Your Seed Like an Expert appeared first on Personal Lawn Care, Inc. .

Mowing Height Recommendations

Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:55:00 GMT

Bermuda : Scalp in early spring. Then gradually work up to 2.5-3.5 inches in the summer. Leave it at that notch or one lower going in to winter.

Zoysia : Scalp in early spring. Then gradually work up to 2.5-3 inches in summer. Leave it at that notch for fall or trim 1 notch lower.

Fescue : Keep at 3” or higher unless renovating.

But remember… never trim more than ⅓ of the leaf blade at a time.

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What to Do with Thin Zoysia

Fri, 06 Mar 2015 15:08:00 GMT

The post What to Do with Thin Zoysia appeared first on Personal Lawn Care, Inc. .

When to Seed Fescue