Nov 6, 2020, 09:20 AM by Fred Speer

No two lawns are exactly alike. They can differ by turf and soil type, climate, location, how they are used, and how they are cared for.

A lawn in Reno can endure extreme dry conditions as well as snow in the same year, but a lawn in San Diego will enjoy mild temperatures year round. These differences can make taking care of your lawn, plants, and trees a challenge – unless you have a plan.

Clark, your friendly pest, grounds care, termite, and rodent expert, can design a customized program to help you reclaim and promote good health in your lawn, plants, and trees.

With Clark’s Pest-Plus® program, residential customers can add lawn care and weed control services to their existing pest or termite program. This creates a protective bubble around your home and can provide you with peace of mind that your home is protected inside and out from pests.

Fall is an ideal time to invest in the health of your lawn and plants. The cooler temperatures allow your lawn and yard plants to rebuild and establish themselves, according to Mike Andrew, Corporate Quality Assurance Manager for Clark’s ag division.

“Lawns and yard plants are done fighting off summer’s high temperatures,” Andrew says, “and drought-like conditions and are ready to take on nutrients before entering the winter period.”

Deep-root fertilization of trees and shrubs, and traditional fertilization of lawns, will help establish stronger roots that will result in healthier, greener lawns, shrubs, and trees that add both environmental and aesthetic value to your home.

Fall is the time to apply pre- and post-emergent herbicides to control broadleaf weeds in lawns, flower beds, and bare-ground firebreak areas.

“Homeowners want to be proactive to prevent weeds from germinating in lawns, flower beds, and bare ground areas over the winter,” Andrew says. “What you do now will determine how successful you’ll be in establishing firebreaks around your home for next year. It pays to be proactive.”

The fall season is also a good time to plant new or transplant existing shrubs and trees, or add seed to your lawn.

1. Overseeding: A dense, healthy lawn is the best protection against weeds, and overseeding thin or damaged areas will help build up your lawn. Remember that simply spreading seed on the ground isn’t the answer. The seed must be in contact with the soil and must be watered until it germinates.
   
   
2. Keep mowing: Keep mowing your lawn – at least once a week in the fall and winter – and remember to not cut it too short. Andrew recommends 2 ½- to 3-inch height and to pick up your clippings. Cutting your lawn too short will curtail its root system and will block its ability to recover over the winter. Regular mowing also gets rid of leaves, allowing lawn blades to get more sunlight and oxygen.
   
   
3. Remove leaves and debris: Leaves and debris are not good for your lawn, as they block light and trap moisture. Make sure to pick up any falling leaves and yard debris, because if you don’t, the grass under that decaying mat will die. Be sure to prune shrubs and trees to promote new growth.
   
   
4. Consistent watering: Just because it’s cooler outside and winter rains are on the horizon, Andrew recommends that you water your lawn and plants at least once a week to help promote growth. Check your irrigation pipes and sprinkler heads to make sure they are working properly, and adjust as needed.

Clark Pest Control remains committed to safeguarding your home from pests during these challenging times. Our service technicians use such personal protective equipment as gloves, masks, and respirators, they practice social distancing, they call ahead to notify you before a service, and they adhere strictly to all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines when servicing inside or outside your home.

To keep your lawn, landscape plants, and trees healthy and vibrant all year round, call or text California’s trusted, friendly lawn and shrub care expert, Clark, at (800) WE-NEED-YOU (936-3339) or send an email to clarkcares@clarkpest.com.

Until next time, the pest management professionals at Clark Pest Control thank you for helping to keep unwanted pests out of your home and yard.