SPRING LAWN TIPS
FOR
THE LOWER MAINLAND, BC :
MOWING:
Moss is a common problem in the Lower Mainland. It favours wet, shady areas, and may completely take over neglected turf. Our Bronze, Silver and Gold programs all include a spring moss control. Chemical control is temporary however, and it is important to improve growing conditions for the grass. If the grass has thinned out in mossy areas we recommend raking and overseeding with a quality seed mix.
A proper fertility program and aeration will keep the lawn healthy enough to fight off the moss invasion unless shade is a problem. Trees and shrubs will have grown quite a bit since they were planted, increasing lawn shade. Check to see if surrounding trees can be thinned out, or hedges lowered to let in more light. Turf needs at least 4 hours of sunlight a day to do well. If that's not practical then consider replacing the lawn with a shade garden or deck.
Why Lime?:
Our rainfall on the coast is acidic which in turn increases the acidity in our heavy clay soils. Turf grasses do best in a relatively neutral soil, which has a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. Limestone is used to counteract this acidity. A dolomitic lime, containing micronutrients, is recommended.
AERATION:
Our clay-based soils can compact badly from rainfall, even without heavy surface traffic. Annual core aeration helps to relieve compaction, reduce thatch buildup, and get oxygen into the root zone. Grass roots multiply and the turf thickens. Core aeration and liming are essential to achieving best lawn results on the coast. We do not recommend topdressing with sand after aerating. There are situations where this is beneficial but after aeration is not one of them.
GRUB UPDATE:
The European Chafer Grub , a common problem in Ontario and the eastern U.S. , arrived in New Westminster in 2001. In just a few short years the Chafer has found its way westward across New West, South Burnaby and has now crossed Boundary Road into the East Side of Vancouver as far as Knight Street. We expect it will reach Cambie Street this year.
The damage to lawns is much worse than the leather jackets that we are used to here, and is completely devastating. While the grubs are feeding on the grass roots, raccoons, skunks, and crows tear up the lawn to feed on the grubs. An entire neighbourhood can look like a disaster area in short order. By the time we can see the damage it is too late to attempt control. Learn more about the Chafer Grub.
To remove and re-turf your lawn costs about a dollar per square foot so the economic damage of these pests has been substantial to date and is going to get a lot worse.
GRUB DAMAGE FEB/07
Treated Untreated
Controls are applied from mid-June to mid-July. If you miss this window then your next opportunity will be next year. Call our office to discuss your options.
OTHER INSECTS:
Leather jacket activity has been on the decline in most areas while Wireworms and Sod Webworms are becoming more prevalent. A healthy turf is your best defense against insect problems.
 
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Vancouver, Richmond 
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