Hey there, homeowners of Chattanooga, East Ridge, and Brainerd TN. I’m excited to share some essential fall lawn care tips tailored just for our region. With the changing seasons, it’s crucial to get your lawn ready for the cooler months ahead. In today’s guide, we’ll take a look at some key steps you could follow to ensure your lawn thrives through fall and into summer. A big shoutout to The Lawn Review for creating this great youtube video that explains the steps. I’ve summarized the steps here, but you should give them a follow.
Step 1: Clear the Surface
To start, your lawn should be cleared of debris. A painter needs a clean canvas to work from – the same goes for a lawn. Nothing traps air and nutrients between grass blades like a layer of leaves and stems, so clear yet another hurdle on your lawn’s way to success. If you have a lot of leaves, make sure you’re using a mower with a bag attachment, because despite the swole flexes you might get from mowing in circles for hours, this is not the season to mulch your grass. You just want it nice and bare. Without obstacles to air and water movement, seed-to-soil contact will be where the magic happens.
Step 2: Aerate Your Lawn
Aeration is important for increasing airflow and water absorption in your soil. Breaking up compacted soil allows good penetration of oxygen and moisture to the roots. If you have clay soil as many of our clients do and that’s fairly common here in Chattanooga) then you can rent an areator or we’ll get you on the schedule for a spring or fall aeration Aerate in two directions to get your core across the area. As a bonus, this also provides your seed and fertilizer with better penetration into the soil.
Step 3: Apply Pre-emergent
Now that your lawn has been aerated, apply pre-emergent herbicide. A product like Tenacity is good to know about because it allows you to seed and apply pre-emergent in the same step. This is helpful because you’ll get some of the results of pre-emergent herbicide. In many cases, it will kill weeds that started growing in the summer. If you are in Chattanooga, then applying it in the fall will stop your lawn from becoming full of winter weeds.
Step 4: Seed Your Lawn
Now, let’s spread seed! Your best bet for this area I believe is a good fescue blend – it will thrive in Chattanooga’s transitional climate. Use broadcast or drop seed spreader to spread seed in a crisscross pattern and allow your lawn to fill in by next spring.
Step 5: Fertilize and Water
The final step would be to fertilise. Fertilise with a starter fertiliser, if you are overseeding a little late in the season. When fertilising, spread it over the seeded area in the same crisscross pattern as your seed, and make sure to only use half of the recommended spread rate. Then water the seed, keeping the seeds moist. You will want to water your lawn four to five times a day for approximately 10 to 15 minutes each time (works out to be a quarter of an inch of water) for the first two weeks, ensuring that there is no drying out of the seeds.
By following these Fall Lawncare Tips In Chattanooga, you’ll set your lawn up for success through the cooler months and into the warmer seasons. Remember, a well-cared-for lawn not only enhances your property’s curb appeal but also contributes to the overall health of your landscape. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your 5-star rated Lawn Care team serving the greater Chattanooga area!
Thanks for reading, and happy lawn care!