I know I have said in my previous articles about how summer of 2025 will be remembered for being a season of weather extremes. Livestock and crops were directly affected by this. What we tend to forget about is how our lawns are no exception to this either. With cooler weather right around the corner, fall is the perfect time to renovate and re-establish your lawns. Even though the hot weather had some play in the lawn’s decline, there might have been other factors in play as well. The first step to lawn renovation should always be to identify and correct those factors. Trying to re-establish turf in your lawn without fixing these will not end up being successful when looking long-term.
Obviously, we can’t control the weather, but we can make the existing turf grass a healthier and thicker stand. Poor soil pH and soil fertility mean for a weaker turf stand and are usually the culprit for a decline in turfgrass health. Soil testing and correcting the pH and improving overall soil quality is the essential foundation for a healthy lawn. This all should be done before reseeding the ground.
When the grass declines, weeds start to fill those voids. A thick stand of grass will be the best form of weed control. If you plan to apply an herbicide, make sure to apply and wait before reseeding. Renting a core aerator to help prepare the soil as well might end up being a good investment.
Choosing the right variety of grass makes a remarkable difference especially with Tennessee weather conditions. I would recommend a turf-type fescue blend that can take on drought and excess moisture. Spread some straw lightly and water as needed until the grass is well established. Once that grass is well established, make sure that mower blade stays sharp to prevent leaf damage. Additionally, never cut more than one third of the leaf at one time to ensure the plant’s overall health.
I would also like to invite anyone who is interested to attend this month’s Lunch and Learn about innovating your lawn. It is being held on August 29th from 12-1 at the Chamber and I believe it will provide a lot of good information and practical ways to encourage good, healthy growth in your yard going into next year! If you’re interested or just have questions, just make sure to call the UT/TSU Smith County Extension office at 615-735-2900.
