Autumn 2019
Autumn is finally in full swing in North Carolina! To help you better prepare for the season, we’ve put together some information about what to expect this fall. Remember, landscapes behave differently in different climates, so this post is specific to the Piedmont of North Carolina.
Time Frame: September - December (season end is weather dependent)
Aeration, Seeding, and Fertilizing
Lawn Type: Fescue, and other cool season grasses.
Aeration and seeding refers to a process that opens up the soil to better gain nutrients and placing seeds at a depth where they can better take root. This is important for your lawn to appear thick and healthy.
We use a premium seed blend specific to our transitional area in the Piedmont. Once seeding has taken place, you’ll begin to notice sprouts in 2-3 weeks. Initial growth is sparse. This is ideal, and allows room for the young plants to grow and spread. During the germination period (2-3 weeks) it is vital that the soil stay moist. Consistent rainfall, or watering up to 2x per day, is best, but watering as much as you can will help!
Pro Tip: Pinch some soil between your fingers. If it sticks together, it’s moist. If not, it needs water.
Seedlings will first be seen in the aeration holes. Aeration provides a bed for the seedlings to grow in, as well as loosens compacted soil and allows for the roots to spread. However, if you continue to water properly, the seed on top of the soil that is not in the holes will germinate and grow also. Watering should be reduced after the first mowing of the new seedlings. Then, water only if the grass looks stressed, and water deeply (longer settings). Heavy, less frequent watering encourages deep root growth.
2019 Weed and Turf Problem
Due to weather conditions stemming from 2018, there has been an increase in certain weed varieties seen throughout the Triangle area. What’s the best defense against a weed uptick in your lawn? Appropriate, seasonal aeration, seeding, and fertilizing!
For more information on the weather events leading up to this, check out a WRAL report here.
For more information on the statement released by the NC Dept of Agriculture, click here.
Dormant Turf
Lawn Type: Bermuda, Centipede, Zoysia, and other warm season grasses.
Warm season grasses won’t need to go through the aeration and seeding process, as they are sod type grasses. In September, you should notice their growth begin to slow, and by October the grass will go dormant and appear brown. This is totally normal! The color will return with the warmer weather.
