Lawns in Our Area Need to Be Fertilized

by Expert Contributor Matt McGuire, Owner of Delaware Valley Turf

Let us start with the most overlooked fact regarding turfgrass management in the Pennsylvania area. Turfgrasses are not native to this area. Pennsylvania would revert to forest if we stopped mowing our lawns. There is too much moisture in the soil and air throughout the year for grasses to thrive. Conversely, the midwestern states such as Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Kansas with deep topsoil and moderate rainfall are ideal for growing grasses, especially corn, a member of the grass family. Therefore, in our area, a lawn or athletic field will need special attention.

The goal of any turfgrass management program is to suppress unwanted plants (weeds) and stimulate the turf. In order for turfgrass to look its best in our area, it will need special inputs so it can outcompete the weeds and withstand diseases. Like animals, plants need food. Photosynthesis is the process whereby plants make food using the energy of the sun. Turfgrasses use nutrients in the soil to aid in the process of photosynthesis.

Soils need to have the capacity to hold nutrients and need regular inputs of nutrients through fertilization applications. Without fertilization, soils cannot provide the necessary nutrients to aid in photosynthesis and other metabolic processes.

Additionally, if the soil pH is too acidic (a condition common in our area), the soil will not have the ability to hold nutrients for the turfgrass roots to uptake. Every fertilization plan should include testing the soil’s pH and making adjustments.

Even with the proper nutrients, turfgrass will have a difficult time throughout the year outcompeting weeds, withstanding pests and avoiding diseases. A solid turfgrass management plan for a lawn, athletic field or golf course will include plans for these problems. The first step in the spring for preventing weeds involves the use of a pre-emergent. A pre-emergent is a product that is applied at the onset of the season that prevents annual weed seeds from germinating. Other times throughout the year, it will be necessary to address broadleaf perennial weeds, insects, and diseases.

A turfgrass management company, whether it is a lawn care, landscaping or athletic field maintenance company, should have a program that they follow that will provide you with the proper care of your lawn or field. Talk with a knowledgeable lawn care company to understand the processes that they use to keep your lawn in its best shape throughout the year.

Expert Contributor Matt McGuire, Owner of Delaware Valley Turf

DELAWARE VALLEY TURF

610-328-4170

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