Lawncare Persona

Dr. Gary Bachman: How you approach lawn maintenance determines your lawn care persona today on Southern Gardening.

Announcer: Southern Gardening with Gary Bachman is produced by the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

Dr. Gary Bachman: Driving around a neighborhood it's pretty easy to see a homeowner's lawn care persona, but do you know yours? Do you try to save the day with every little problem that pops up in your lawn? Then you're probably high maintenance, lawn that is. You fertilize multiple times a season, even adding maybe a little more than recommended because you want that green lawn. You know a healthy lawn is a weed-free lawn and boy is your lawn healthy. You water only when the lawn needs it but you probably have the latest in irrigation timers to precisely meet your lawn's needs. You soil test, keep the mower tuned, and the blade sharp.

Or you might take the approach that with a little balance the force will take care of your lawn. For a healthy warm season grass you fertilize in the summer when the turf is actively growing. While you may accept some weeds you do want to maintain a mostly weed-free lawn. Pre-emergent herbicide in the spring will help keep that balance. You'll water enough during dry spells to keep the turf alive, this provides balance with your checkbook.

Or you might take the zen of lawn care approach. You mow and don't collect the clippings, to recycle the nutrients. You haven't met a weed that you don't like, because they're green. Besides they have pretty flowers. You never water the lawn and allow it to go dormant because everything has to provide for itself. Each year your lawn becomes a little smaller as you expand flower beds for their beauty.

Knowing your lawn care persona will make your turf healthier and you happier this year. I'm horticulturist Gary Bachman for Southern Gardening.

Announcer: Southern Gardening with Gary Bachman is produced by the Mississippi State University Extension Service.