Page 25 - Lawn & Landscape Guide AL

Aeration and Overseed: If you want green grass year around, ryegrass can be overseeded in October. Aerate first to break up the soil. Overseed ryegrass evenly at the recommended rate. We recommend 10-15 lbs per 1000 sqft of seed followed up with an application of starter fertilizer. (18-24-12 blend)
Fire Ants: Fire ant stings are very painful and are no joke! They thrive in warmer temperatures and but they are active 12 months a year. Fire ants search for areas of direct sunlight so your lawn is a perfect fit. Their mounds can develop very quickly especially after rainfall. Broadcasting baits are most effective.
Turf Pest Alert: Surface feeding insects are still active and must be controlled to prevent turf injury. Grub worms, mole crickets, chinch bugs are currently active therefore quick identification and action must be taken. A good way to check for turf pests is to take a 4 square foot area, framed up with 2x4’s. Put 5-6 table spoons of dish washing liquid to 2 gallons of water in a bucket and mix up. Pour over the 4 sqft area and wait a few minutes. If turf pests are present they should come to the surface and be able to be seen. Apply insecticide as needed.
Turf Disease Alert: In the month of October, turf diseases are possible. Identification is key. Leaf spot on St. Augustine is common this time of the year. Reduce standing water and areas that retain moisture. Also, early morning watering is best to prevent turf diseases. Apply fungicides to help control these diseases.
Mosquito Control: Mosquitos are still active. Remove all standing water, including old tires, buckets, pet bowls, etc. to help prevent breeding grounds for mosquitos. Gutters are also a great place for mosquitos to congregate. Keeping clean gutters will prevent excess moisture which will deter mosquito breeding. Apply an insecticide with fast knockdown, long residual, and an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) to actually help break the life cycle.
Fire Ants: Fire ant stings are very painful and are no joke! They thrive in warmer temperatures and but they are active 12 months a year. Fire ants search for areas of direct sunlight so your lawn is a perfect fit. Their mounds can develop very quickly especially after rainfall. Broadcasting baits are most effective.
Tree and Shrub Care
Inspection: Always inspect your landscape for insect and disease activity. We are in an ideal
geographical location for both.
Watering: Water 1.5”-2” of precipitation per week is recommended. Remember, do not over-water. If mother nature provides the precipitation, watering may not be needed. Over-watering can quickly cause root rot.