The Drought

Because of last years chronic drought conditions, Austin was been under mandatory water restrictions for most of the year. It’s not that unusual to have some restrictions during the summer but last year was different. Limited watering and extreme temperatures put Austin’s lawn under severe stress. Any grass that was left to survive in the sun is gone. Those without an automatic sprinkling system are left with mostly a bare lawn. Any way you look at it there has been major damage that will need major repairs this spring.
The combination of heat and no rain can be also a breeding ground for fleas. The blood-sucking insects are desperate for food, and pets can make the perfect meal. Dryness is going to drive them to more central points. It’s going to drive the animals to water sources, so squirrels in your backyard, dogs in your backyard, are going to be who those fellas are looking to feed off of. Brown spots on lawns may not always be from lack of water or nutrients, but instead from insects that can mimic drought damage on select grass types. Homeowners need to have a clear understanding of the source of the yard problem to effectively resolve.
Some things you can do:
Irrigation Efficiency: Ensure sprinkler heads and related water lines are working properly and that the irrigation system provides sufficient coverage. Low water pressure will affect coverage. Light watering too often is not as effective as a slow, thorough watering (about one inch) once or twice a week, optimally in the early morning. Adjust watering times and cycles if needed to provide for one inch of water. Inspect drought-sensitive plants and grasses. Although mature trees and many southern grasses will tolerate drought, others may not. Undiagnosed infestation of lawn insects and build up of mites and insects on shrubs can also enhance the risk of plants’ susceptibility to further decline from drought conditions. Get a lawn care professional to assist in diagnosing plants for drought versus insect damage.
Feed: Lawns, trees and shrubs require proper nutrition to encourage healthy growth and the ability to recover from drought damage. Use a trained professional company that offers customized solutions to lawn and landscape problems based on the specific needs of the homeowner’s region.
Mowing Schedule: Mow grass as needed and not as a scheduled weekly chore. Avoid mowing in the heat of day or if the lawn is extremely dry to allow the lawn to bounce back during the cooler temperatures of night. To help promote moisture retention and to prevent shock, disease and insects, do not cut more than one-third of the grass leaf blade and mow at the highest recommended height for your grass type.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off