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Fall is also the time to consider overseeding. Incorporating the proper seed mix for your site will greatly improve your lawn’s quality for seasons to come. Overseeding is done by adding grass seeds directly into existing turf. It is an easy way to fill in bare spots, improve the color and density of the turf and make it less susceptible to diseases by adding a variety of hardy grass types based upon the site conditions.

Another impediment to a great lawn is compacted soil. Heavy traffic from general use and maintenance work, like weekly mowing, can lead to the soil becoming compacted. This inhibits root development — resulting in poor turf quality. Core aeration can relieve compaction allowing roots to grow deep and provide the base for a good lawn. The process involves creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots of the grass. This is typically performed in conjunction with overseeding.

Topdressing — adding a layer of organic high-grade compost and sand mix before seeding will give the seeds even more soil to grab onto and the right diet to thrive. Compost consists of biological organic matter and contains a full spectrum of essential plant nutrients that will make your lawn healthy and less prone to diseases. Almstead manufactures high quality OMRI certified organic compost (see article on front page).

If you’re leaning toward organic lawn care, fall is the best time to apply organic matter in the form of compost teas and humates. They help build a soil profile capable of supporting a great lawn with reduced, or even eliminated, synthetic fertilizer and pesticide use.

Fall is, therefore, the best time to correct any deficiencies and prepare your lawn for the next growing season. The recipe for a great lawn is quite simple: give the turf what it needs when it needs it. That means proper soil conditions, adequate moisture, good mowing practices, and the control of broad-leaf and grassy weeds.