What can I do to help make my lawn look its best?
A proper mowing and watering program are the two most important steps a homeowner can take to improve the turf quality. Each turf type is unique and will require slightly different programs. We service Bermuda, Zoysia, and Fescue turf types. Click on the corresponding link for your turf for some tips. If you are unsure what kind of lawn you have, don’t worry, we have seen it all and would be happy to give you a free evaluation. Just click here and we’ll leave you something on your door.
Why are some weeds controlled faster than others?
When controlling weeds, it is important to understand that there are many hundreds of weed species and many respond differently to different weed killers or pre-emergents. The same holds true for the products themselves. Many products use different methods of attack which can change the amount of time it takes a weed to die. A good average is 2-3 weeks in warm weather or 3-4 for cooler weather. Some may die quickly, some may die slowly, some may require multiple applications and some could potentially require multiple seasons of work to fully remove. There are some species that are fairly resistant to any type of weed control and may require more aggressive treatments or alternative options. Timing and communication are also important. Kemko uses many of the newest field-tested products but it is always best to communicate your concerns so that we can explain the process for a particular issue.
Why won’t my grass grow near my trees?
Almost every homeowner has seen or experienced tree root competition without even realizing what it is or the true source of the issue. Tree root competition is when the roots of a tree, or trees, become naturally close to the surface and compete directly with your lawn. The result is that your grass will withdraw from the region leaving thin or bare areas behind. There are several important things to know about this common issue if you have any trees in the lawn that are (or may eventually begin) causing problems.
The first and most important rule is that the tree will always win. We say this because many home owners not only mistake the problem but also, as a result, spend a lot of time, money, and heartache trying to “fix” the problem. Many mistake the problem as a lack of water, fertilizer, lime, or even as a shade issue. (Note: Shade can also be a problem but the difficult process of reducing shade rarely corrects problems beneath the tree.)
Here are some common “fixes” that do not work and that you should not waste time and money on:
Removing limbs to increase sunlight – this damages your tree and does not actually increase sunlight, nor does it address the actual root problem.
Removing roots — the roots you remove are only a tiny fraction of the system causing the problem, they also regenerate quickly. You can also kill the tree by accident.
Sanding — this only works to encourage grass to spread where it may grow naturally, which is not the case here.
Adding topsoil — unless you are adding a landscaping “berm” with retaining wall this will not have a lasting effect and has the added risk of killing the tree if it is too thick.
Extra fertilizer, water, lime, (other nutrients) — These will not hurt the tree but will not cause the roots to retreat or make the soil “fertile” in a way that would allow the grass to return. In fact, it will probably help the tree more.
Seeding, or sodding — This only helps the person you paid money to. Regardless of grass type, it will return to the same degree of thinness within six months or less with seed or a year or less with sod. In some cases the seed or sod will not even root.
