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Posted 18 August 2008. Applied Turfgrass Science. LSU AgCenter Agent Gives Lawn-Care Tips LSU AgCenter. www.coa.lsu.edu Baton Rouge, Louisiana (August 14, 2008)--Why is my neighbor’s yard greener? That’s the most common phone call LSU AgCenter agent Troy Menard receives about lawn care.
Speaking at the Lunch and Ag Discovery program Aug. 11 at the LSU AgCenter’s Red River Research Station in Bossier City, Menard told the 60 in attendance a few “secrets on how to have a beautiful yard. The results of a soil sample will give information on texture, pH and micronutrient levels – “the key to developing a lawn,” Menard said. A routine soil test analysis from the LSU AgCenter’s Plant Analysis Laboratory is available through parish AgCenter offices. When building a new house, it is important to make sure you have good topsoil and proper drainage, Menard said. “This is the time to put in an irrigation system,” he said. The most popular grasses in Louisiana are St. Augustine, followed by centipede, Bermuda and Zoysia. St. Augustine requires moderate to high maintenance and takes shade better, Menard said. Centipede grass is gaining popularity, according to Menard. It is an erect grass with a fine, slender blade that requires less water during dry periods. But it does not do very well in shade. Bermuda grass requires full sun. “The more it has, the better it is going to thrive,” Menard said. “It is high maintenance. You have to mow it a lot.” Zoysia is the highest quality lawn that you can buy, Menard said. But it should not be grown in full sun. Planting can be done by seed, sprigs or sod. Menard said you can tell if your lawn needs water when you leave a footprint that doesn’t pop back up or when grass color is changing. He recommends watering a half inch for sandy soils and 1.5 inches for clay. He said a bowl can be placed in the yard to measure amounts. Ideal times to water are between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. “Avoid night watering,” he said. “You are introducing every plant disease known to lawns.” When fertilizing, be sure to follow the directions on the bag, Menard said, suggesting waiting until late March. For mowing, the blade height for St. Augustine should be 2.5 to 3.5 inches and 1.5 to 2 for centipede and Bermuda, Menard said. “Sharpen the blade twice during growing season and bag if you can to prevent fungus,” he said. Menard also suggests washing equipment with a light bleach solution after use to prevent fungus problems in the lawn. Contact: Troy Menard |
