Homes Plus
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SEPTEMBER 2013 HOMES PLUS 7 Is your lawn in need of repair? Fall is an excellent time for lawn repair. The severe drought of 2012 was not only tough on our plants, but on our lawns, as well. Grass can go dormant for about six to eight weeks without a problem. But after that, it can also succumb to drought. This is especially true if other stresses are involved, like poor soil conditions or heavy traffic flow. I think most of us are going to see bare spots, or even larger areas, in our lawns that need attention. Before we talk about how to fix bare spots, all lawns could benefit from aeration this year to allow for better air and water flow. I would avoid rolling because this will simply compact the soil and plug up open spaces where air and water can penetrate. If we start out dry I would also water to give the , roots a boost. Also, an organic fertilizer would be beneficial, as well. Now, let's talk about repair. First, find the best grass seed for your situation, be it dense shade to full sun. Avoid cheap seed because you get what you pay for. Quality seed, with limited fillers, is the best. Find a mix with a good blend of fescue and bluegrass for best results. Bluegrass is the best grass for drought resistance, but doesn't handle the cold as well, and fescue handles the cold better but isn't as drought tolerant. This is why a blend of both is best in Wisconsin for our growing conditions. 231711002 FULL SERVICE LAWN CARE MICHAEL TIMM Photo by Dwayne Butler/Homes Plus n't hurt to over seed but try not to under Fixing bare spots in your lawn takes time seed or you'll be doing it again. Lightly rake the seed around, being careful not to cover and consistent watering. the seed much, or simply press it into the Next, let's look at that bare spot of dirt. Remove any dead grass or other organic material and loosen up the existing dirt. Add some compost to the loose dirt, mix well and spread evenly over the area. I recommend compost because it will add life to the existing soil and also help feed your new seedlings. If you find you have extra soil mix, just blend it in with the existing grass around the bare spot. It could use some of that compost, as well. Plus, it helps to seed a little past the bare spot anyway to ensure proper coverage. Now, apply the seed. How much you say? On average, three pounds of quality seed will cover roughly 1,050 square feet (33 feet by 33 feet), so kind of judge by that. It does- • Fall Clean-Up • Fertilization • Lawn Reseeding soil to make sure the seed has contact with the dirt. Lastly apply a thin layer of mulch, such , as marsh hay sawdust or even peat moss to , help protect the seed and hold moisture. You'll want to water frequently keeping the , area evenly moist, until it fills in fully Once . the spot fills in, you can think about fertilizing it to give it a boost. Even grass has its limits when it comes to severe droughts, and hopefully things won't be too bad. But it's always good to be prepared. Happy gardening. Free Estimates Competitive Pricing (Michael Timm is the head horticulturist with Ebert's Greenhouse Village in Ixonia. He can be reached at mtimm@ebertsgreenhouse.com.) 262-337-2600 IS YOUR HOUSE READY FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS? 234178001 Etch Coat & Glaze, Inc. • Solid Surface Walls, Countertops and More • Custom Cabinetry • Acrylic Tub Liners and Walls • Custom Showers, a Specialty now located at 17025 W. Rogers Dr., New Berlin 262-796-1522 www.etchcoat.com "WE GUARANTEE OUR WORK" 226920003 Redeem this coupon at Paradise Builders on Sunset Drive FALL PROMO: We are proud to introduce in Waukesha. Expires 8/31/12 our exclusive "Paradise" window. $100 off each window through November 1st and 6 mo. no interest/no financing. Order By 11/01/2013 FALL PROMO: FREE House wrap with your purchase of siding for your home 233735002 Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling -or-or- Order By 12/30/2013 Your Budget... FALL PROMO: FREE $2,500 Design Services. Your Design... FREE granite top and Kohler fixture upgrade With Coupon. Offer expires 7-31-12 Order By with Kitchen - Bathroom - Addition Your Timeline... 12/30/2013 Your Someday Is Here