Rebecca Lassig . Rebecca was the first to submit the correct answer to our August trivia question: "What fruit is also known as a custard apple because of the texture of its cream-colored flesh?" The correct answer is: "Cherimoya."

Wedel's News

...on your side of the fence. At least it can be with a little effort and there's no better time than fall to plant grass seed in order to have a thick, lush lawn next year. Fall is the perfect time of year to seed whether you are over seeding your existing lawn or starting from scratch. The soil is still warm which allows germination and rooting and there are fewer weeds to compete with the new grass plants for moisture and nutrients.

Fall also offers more sunshine due to the fact that, as the trees lose their leaves, the sunlight is much less filtered. Diseases in the lawn are fewer and less aggressive at this time of year also. There is usually more rainfall throughout the season so you won't need to be as diligent with your watering tasks. During hotter, drier months it could be necessary for you to water your newly seeded areas 2 or 3 times per day to keep the soil from drying. If grass seed germinates but dries out, the seed dies and no amount of water will revive it.

It is a good idea to gently rake the area you will be seeding to break the surface of the soil making it easier for the germinated seed to plant its roots. There is some benefit to raking in a very thin layer of enriched soil over the same area but be careful to not add too much soil. Less than 1/4 inch is sufficient.

If you are over seeding, mow the existing grass a little lower than you would normally this time of year in order to make sure the new seed comes in contact with the soil. If the seed doesn't contact soil it won't root after germination. Whether over seeding or starting a new lawn, it is always advisable to use a good starter fertilizer which promotes root growth. Good root growth is your first and most important goal. As you know, grass plants are hearty and the way they become hearty is through a good, healthy root system.

It goes without saying that, to ensure having a beautiful and healthy lawn, you need to use high quality grass seed and grass seed that is intended to be used in our climate. There are all sorts of miracle grass seeds advertised but be careful when considering the seed you use. Some mail order seed produces grass that is the last to turn green in the spring and the first to go dormant in the fall. Once dormant, it is as yellow as straw. Other "only on tv" seed produces ugly coarse plants that would be judged to be weeds by those who want a truly beautiful lawn.

Another problem that comes with grass seed of questionable origin is what you are getting can be of very poor quality with a small percentage of desirable, viable seed, a high percentage of filler and a high percentage of weed seed. Buying grass seed is one example of you get what you pay for. The best advice is to buy from someone you know and trust. Ask to see the analysis of the seed and have explained what the various percentages mean.

Choose a seed or seed blend suitable for the conditions where it will be used. You can get seed that is 100% of one variety of bluegrass or a blend of several varieties of bluegrass but if you are planting in a highly shaded area you are going to be disappointed. There are variety blends that will do well in shady areas and others that will do well in sunny areas. Another blend might be ideal for high traffic areas. It can all be quite confusing but it doesn't have to be.

Drop a note to us and let us know what items you'd like to have a coupon for. Maybe we can work them into future issues of Wedel's News!