WINTER TIP 

Winter is an excellent time to prune trees and shrubs in most parts of the country. Many plants have lost their leaves, making it easier to see their framework and decide which branches to remove. However, do not prune plants that bloom in the spring, as you could remove next spring's flowers. Prune these plants after the blooms fall off in the spring. In most parts of the country, you might need to water your lawn, even during dormancy, if it doesn't rain for three to four weeks. Winter is also a good time to mulch your trees and ornamental plants to help moderate temperatures and soil moisture. This time of year is ideal to get lawn equipment repaired and ready for spring, and many repair shops might even offer winter discounts during what is typically a slow time of the year for them.

 

Seed & Sod

Many factors, such as insects, disease and weeds, can contribute to thin or bare patches in an otherwise healthy lawn. Once you or your lawn care expert have determined the cause and treated the problem, you want to make sure your fill-in strategy will be successful. Here are the recommendations from the experts at Curb Appeal Pressure Washing & More...

Seed Selection

To fill in an existing lawn, choose grass seed that is the same type as the grass already growing. Grasses that do best in the Southern United States are known as "warm season grasses" because they tolerate summer's higher temperatures. In fact, they grow best during summer when air temperatures remain above 65 to 70° F at night. The most common warm season grasses include Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, and to a lesser extent, Zoysiagrass and Centipedegrass. Being tropical or subtropical in origin, these grasses also benefit from relatively high rainfall.

Soil Preparation

Rake bare spots to remove thatch and dead debris, and to loosen the soil surface to a one-inch depth. Spread seed over the soil surface and gently press the seed into the soil. Grass seed needs to stay in contact with the soil to germinate and establish a root system. Lightly cover with straw or seeding mulch to encourage rapid seed germination. You may also use a seed patch kit.

 

Watering is Key

Once you've sown your new seed, water lightly until the soil is moist, but not too wet. Over the next few weeks, you'll need to be diligent about watering, especially if rain is in short supply. You don't want to flood the seed, but never let the seedbed dry out.

Thick Thatch Solution

Spreading grass seed over an established lawn with a thatch layer normally results in wasted seed and effort. You'll achieve better results with slit seeding, using a special machine to cuts slits in the soil and sowing turfgrass directly into the slits. Overseeding can be used for larger areas where the turf is thin, but not bare, if thatch is not present.

Skip Crabgrass Preventer

Do not apply crabgrass preventer to newly seeded areas of your lawn, because it will interfere with seed germination. And if you are trying to establish or re-establish a section of lawn, plugs and sod may be effective options.Many factors, such as insects, disease and weeds, can contribute to thin or bare patches in an otherwise healthy lawn. Once you or your lawn care expert have determined the cause and treated the problem, you want to make sure your fill-in strategy will be successful.

 

 

Walkway & Design 

     Walkways can be as simple as a meandering path of stones winding through a natural setting to an intricate pattern of brick pavers directing you toward a focal point. Like decks and patios, the intended purpose of your walkway will dictate what type of walk you need. If your walkway is to lead to or from a porch or deck, you should have at least two exit points from the deck or patio in addition to the exit point leading back into your house. If you have gates, your walkway should ideally connect high traffic areas with your gates.