Although spring officially kicks off September 1st, it can sometimes take a little longer for your lawn to react, depending on where you live and the current climate. The feeling of spring in the air almost always gets you thinking about your garden and lawn, and getting them back into shape after the cold winter weather.
For all types of lawn, including Eureka Kikuyu, Nullarbor Couch and Australia’s number 1 buffalo lawn, Sir Walter DNA Certified, fertilising your lawn, as well as getting rid of the winter weeds are generally on top of the spring ‘to-do’ list. Although this is definitely what your lawn will need, there are a few factors to keep in mind before doing so.
The reason your lawn stops growing (in most parts of the country) and most weeds continue to grow is down to soil temperature.
When your soil gets below a certain temperature, usually about 14 degrees, your lawn goes into dormancy and the growing stops or slows down considerably. Most weeds however, have adapted and enjoy the cooler soil conditions so they continue to sprout and grow. Weeds are also much more obvious over the cooler months as you are not having to regularly mow your lawn so they get the chance to stand out from the crowd. Because of these reasons, it is crucial to fertilise after your weeds have been treated, and while your lawn is growing. You want the grass to be absorbing the nutrients and not the weeds!
The best time to treat your lawn for weeds is towards the end of winter or start of spring, as your lawn is less likely to be affected by the herbicides as it is still dormant and the weeds are more susceptible as they are still growing.
For most broadleaf weeds the best remedy is a broadleaf herbicide such as Lawn Solutions Australia’s All Purpose Weed Control. This product is effective on all common broadleaf weeds, and won’t affect your lawn.
After the weeds have been treated, it is time to fertilise your lawn. As I mentioned before, your lawn can take a little longer to come out of dormancy after spring. To get the most out of the fertiliser, it is best to wait until your lawn is growing again before applying. Waiting until after your first or second spring mow is a good way to ensure your lawn is out of dormancy and growing again. This is the time your lawn is ready for a feed! A high nitrogen NPK fertiliser is recommended, and always be sure to irrigate after application. To keep a healthy looking lawn year round, it is recommended you apply fertiliser every 8-10 weeks from October to April.
For more handy tips, drop in and see our friends at Lawn Solutions Australia
