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Q. Last year my lawn had crabgrass. How can I avoid that problem this year?
A. Crabgrass is one of several summer annual grasses that invade our lawns. Last summer's crabgrass, foxtail and goosegrass plants produced thousands of seeds before they were killed by frost. These seeds will begin to germinate when soil temperatures reach 55 to 60 degrees F, usually around mid-April. Both cultural and chemical techniques can be used to manage these invaders.
A healthy lawn will usually provide enough competition to keep weeds at bay. Healthy growth can be encouraged through such cultural practices as mowing at appropriate height, proper watering and fertilizing, and annual core aeration. Pre-emergent herbicides can also be used to help control grassy weeds in established lawns, but it must be applied prior to the germination of the weed seeds. It is usually recommended that pre-emergent herbicides be applied during the last half of March. If you opt to use an herbicide, be sure to follow all label directions.
Q. I am new to the Denver area and have purchased a home in one of the newer neighborhoods. This year I'm anxious to start landscaping. Any suggestions for a newcomer?
A. Soil is the foundation of the landscape, and a good starting point is to have a sample of your soil tested. Test results will tell you about the pH and nutrient levels in your soil. They will also provide information on the texture and level of organic matter. These tests are available through the Colorado State University soil testing lab and through independent labs.
Denver area soils are typically high in clay and low in organic matter. If you find that this is the case for your soil, the addition of organic matter will allow water and air to move through the soil and improve drainage. For information on soil testing, call the Colorado State University Extension office in your county, or visit www.ext.colostate.edu
Q. Several of my shrubs have broken branches from this winter's heavy snows. Can I cut these out now?
A. Broken branches can be removed from trees or shrubs at any time of year. Early spring is a great time for pruning; the structure of the shrub is easily visible when the branches are bare. However, spring flowering shrubs bloom on wood that was produced last fall, and pruning before bloom reduces the number of blossoms. To maximize the spring show it is suggested that spring-flowering shrubs be pruned after they bloom. Summer flowering shrubs flower on wood produced in the spring so early spring pruning does not decrease the flowering potential.
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office. |
