It's time to love your lawn! Here is a quick recipe for a luscious lawn:
1. ADD CORN GLUTEN.
Hate Crabgrass? Apply Corn Gluten NOW before the seeds germinate! 9kg bag covers approx 100 sq ft.
2. SPRINKLE WITH FERTILIZER.
Want a lush lawn? Then apply a good spring fertilizer high in nitrogen(the first number) in May.
3. DASH OF SEED
Overseed with a good grass seed that is specific to your growing conditions. Fescue based mixes are truly the best choice for our current trend in enviromental awareness. Fescues are deep rooted which allows them to survive droughts better than bluegrass. Deep roots also allow the plant to better survive grub damage. Fescues can grow in a wide range of conditions including shade.
4. WATER IN NEMATODES
If you have been battling grubs then you will need to apply nematodes and lime to your lawn this spring.
NEMAWHAT?
We have been busy answering many questions over the last couple of weeks about Nematodes. The home owner's newest ally in the battle against grubs in the eco-friendly world of lawn care! So I though this week I would answer some of the most commonly asked questions;
What exactly are nematodes?
Nematodes are microscopic beneficial insect that are natural predators to grubs.
How do they work?
Nematodes travel through water particles beneath the surface of your lawn and attack grubs who are feasting on your lawn's roots, they continue to multiply until all the grubs are gone.
When do I apply them?
Nematodes are most effective when the soil temperature reaches between 10- 15C. When you see them available in your local garden centers it is the correct time to apply them.
Do they need to stay refrigerated?
Absolutely! Nematodes need to be refrigerated until you are ready to apply them. They have about a 4 week shelf life. Once mixed you must use all the nematodes in one application.
How do I apply them?
Nematodes travel ONLY through water particles so it is very important to make sure that your lawn is thoroughly wet before application ( after a good rain is best) If it hasn't rain them you need to put out a sprinkler for a good length of time to ensure the ground is moist. Here at Gemmell's we have hose end sprayers available that you place the nematodes into, attach to a garden hose then spray directly to the areas affected by grubs, working your way out towards the rest of your lawn. You may not see any damage but grubs may still be beneath the surface. After application water your lawn again!
How much will one container cover?
One application of nematodes covers about 3000 sq ft.
Can they harm my children or pets?
Absolutely not they are 100% safe to apply to your lawn and once the grubs are gone they die off and compost into the soil.
Nematodes are now available at Gemmell's. Please feel free to drop in if you have any questions that you need answered. We're here to help!