THESE GUIDELINES ARE NOT COMPREHENSIVE AS CLIMATE AND SOIL CONDITIONS VARY GREATLY

Mowing

Watering

Fertilizer

Insects/Disease

Optimum mowing height 2-3 inches for a quality lawn. Mow too low and weeds can gain a foothold. Mow with a sharp rotary or reel mower, allowing clippings from frequent mowing to remain on the lawn. Never cut more than 1/3 of the shoot growth at a time. A mild vertical cutting may be needed during the warmer months on a vigorous turf that has received high nitrogen fertilization.

Water needs are moderate to high - thrives on wet sites. Apply .5 to 1 inch of water as a deep soaking every 3 to 6 days to encourage a deep, healthy root system during hot, dry periods. Avoid frequent shallow watering that results in shallow roots, permitting weed germination and growth.

Fertilize twice a year - spring and fall with a complete fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. May also apply 2 to 3 summer applications of nitrogen fertilizer, using 1 lb. nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft. Apply nitrogen at 2 to 6 lbs. per 1,000 sq. ft. per year. Too much nitrogen fertilization can increase thatch build up, encourage chinch bugs and brown patch damage.

A well maintained turf will provide the best weed control. Some varieties are resistant or tolerant of chinch bugs and the St. Augustine decline (SAD) virus. Most fungal diseases can be controlled with fungicides.