Water Blog

 Here are some landscaping tips for fall.

1. Core aerate your lawn. Leave cores on the ground and let them break down naturally.
   
   
2. After you aerate, overseed if necessary. Distribute good quality seed by hand or seeder. To broadcast the seed, walk in two directions over the area, to evenly apply it. At this point, you will want to water lightly to wet the seed for better germination. Top dress the aerated area with compost to improve the soil and help the seed germinate.  
   
   
3. Reduce your watering to 1-2 times per week starting in September.  Although it may still be 90 degrees during the day, it is for a much shorter time than peak summer months.
   
   
4. September and October are the best months for planting bulbs, like tulips, and daffodils. Plant them now, and they will bloom in the spring.  It is also an excellent time to divide perennials iris and daylilies. Replacing turf and adding planting beds with shrubs and flowers in your yard will help you save water in the future. 
   
   
5. Fall is a great time to sow wildflower seed because winter cold and moisture will promote seed germination the following spring.
   
   
6. During the fall and winter (October through March) water trees depending on weather, temperature, and soil conditions. You should water in the winter when it is above 40 degrees and when there is no snow cover once a month should be adequate depending on the size of the tree. Watering your trees is essential during dry periods in the fall, winter, and early spring when you aren't watering your lawn. 
   
   Current watering restrictions allow you to lay a hose-end sprinkler in the canopy to water trees and shrubs when needed. Set a timer, so you don't forget it is running.
   
   
   
7. Blow out your sprinkler system in mid-October to prevent freeze damage to your pipes, sprinkler heads, and backflow device. Keep a hose handy to water if you still need to water, remember to disconnect it from the spigot, so it doesn't freeze and burst. Watch the weather and let the weather guide your outdoor water use.
   
   
8. Fall is an excellent time to start a compost pile and recycle those leaves into organic matter that can then be added to your lawn and garden in the spring.  
   
   
9. The best time for lawn fertilizer applications is in early fall, while the lawn is still actively growing.  Go easy on the fertilizer. Do the math and only use the amount of product needed for the square footage in your yard.  Fall fertilization on established grass promotes healthy root systems and hardy lawns.
   
   
10. It is a good time to plant trees and shrubs.  Remember to call 8 -1 -1 before you dig.