• The forsythia are now in bloom.  This is an annual reminder that it is time to apply the preemergent weed control to your lawn.

• Always follow the 1/3 rule when cutting your grass.  Never cut off more than 1/3 of the grass blade at any one time.

• Do you get tired of mowing grass non-stop every spring?  Consider a change in your fertilizer program.  Use a quick release, high nitrogen fertilizer in late fall and put off your spring application until later in the spring season.  The late fall application will green up your grass in the spring without encouraging the flush of growth.

• Is your lawn mower ready for the spring season?  Make sure your oil has been changed and your blade has been sharpened.  For the normal lawn, an annual oil change is usually sufficient.  The mower blade should be sharpened after every 25 hours of use or when the grass blades look shredded or yellow.  Always check your owner’s manual for maintenance recommendations for your mower.

• Most of the turf grass in this area is a mixture of bluegrass, ryegrass and fescue.  In general, these grasses should be mowed at about 2 ½ - 3 ½”.  Mowing your turf at lower heights may cause scalping and will encourage weed growth.

• Are you enjoying the spring color you see in the early spring bulbs?  The daffodils and tulips are quite showy this time of year.  If you want to enjoy a splash of spring color in your landscape, be sure to schedule bulb planting this fall.

• Do you have lawn equipment that requires 2-cycle fuel?  Most new equipment will run on a 50:1 ration of gas to oil.  Make sure to shake the container well each time you use it so that the gas and oil is mixed.

• If you have problems with moles, your REAL problem may be that you have grubs in your lawn.  Grubs are a favorite food of moles.  Follow the label directions, but in general, grub control is applied in late May and early June.

Questions or concerns about your individual landscape may be sent to: michael.coyle@wright.edu.