http://hdl.handle.

net/1813/43857
Contents
Part I: Where to Start

D.e.cid.e..Wbat You Want to Do 2

The Mostimphrtant ?tep 2
Yqur First-Year Plan
Gather More Information 3
Snuff Out 'Weeds · 4
Manage Insects 5
Prevent Diseases 6

Part II: The Details

Renovating and Establishing a Lawn ]]

Choosing !,awn Grasses · 12

Relieving Thatch
.Gaping with Shade
Avoiding Salt Damage
For More Information · inside back cover

-FrankS. Rossi is an associate professor of turfgrass science in the Department of Horticulture

at Cornell University. He is also leader of the turfgrass progrq.m that is part of the
department's landscape management program work team .
Part I. Where to Start

It Can Be Done

C
hances are, you can grow a pretty good lawn without using insec-
ticides, fungicides, or herbicides. You may even be able to do it
using little or no chemical fertilizer, if that's your goal. Will your
lawn look like a putting green? No. Will it stand up to wear and tear like a
professionally managed soccer field? Not a chance. Will it stay emerald green
through the dog days of summer? Probably not. But if you arm yourself with an
understanding of what grasses need to thrive-and commit to a long-term plan
to meet those needs-you can grow a perfectly acceptable lawn while foregoing
lawn chemicals.
Even if you don't want to give up using lawn chemicals completely, this
publication will help you get by with fewer pesticides. Either way, our goal is
to help your lawn thrive because well-managed lawns are an environmental
asset, not a liability (see "Why Lawns Matter, " page 7).
Keep in mind, this publication was written with New York State lawns in
mind . This approach can be adapted to areas with similar conditions, but the
more your conditions differ from ours, the more important it is that you
gather sound information. A good place to start is with your state's cooperative
extension services. Chances are, there is an office in your county. Find your
local office at www.csrees.usda.gov/ Extension.

Lawn Care without Pesticides

 Just as a little fertilizer can help grass
Decide What You thrive, a carefully timed herbicide appli-
Your First -Year Plan
Want to Do cation or an occasional spot spray in a Once you understand how grass grows. spend the first year adjusting how you take care
trouble area may go a long way toward of your grass so that you better meet its needs.
The main theme of this publication is reducing weed problems in the long run.
that if you do everything possible to But you can easily do without these chem-
reduce the stress on your grass plants-
help them thrive-you will have a better
lawn. The grass plants will grow stron-
ger, stand up better to weeds, and be
icals-as long as you don't expect to have a
totally weed -free lawn.
So what exactly do you want to do? Turn
1. Mow correctly
Mowing takes more time than any
2e Patch small holes
Nature abhors a vacuum and will
your neglected lawn into a greener place? other lawn care activity. It also has
more resistant to insects and diseases. rush to fill bare earth with weeds.
Eliminate all lawn chemicals and fertil- a tremendous effect on the health
ConseqUently, you will need fewer lawn In early spring, inspect your lawn
izers immediately? Cut back on all of them of your grass. Ifyou mow high, mow
chemicals. Or, if you don't use lawn for small patches where the grass is
gradually? Eliminate insecticides, her- · often, and leave the clippings, your
chemicals at all, you will have a healthier, dead or weak, and reseed them. (See
bicides, and fungicides but still use some grass plants will be healthier and have
better-looking lawn. "Repairing Small Spots," page 9.)
fertilizers? How far you go is up to you. stronger roots that can better with -
But not alllavm chemicals are the To prevent weeds without using her-
The principles and practices you learn stand drought, outcompete weeds, and
same. The insecticides and fungicides bicides, don't let them get a start in
from this publication will help no matter resist pests and diseases. (To find out
used to control insect pests and fungal these bare spots . Repair any lingering
which chemicals you want to give up and how high. how often, and why clip-
diseases will probably be easiest to give weak spots in late summer or early fall.
how fast you want to do it. pings are good, see "Mowing," page 8.)
up. (Most insecticides applied to home If you rely on a lawn care service, talk
lawns are either unneeded or ineffec- with them after you read this publication
tive anyway because they are applied at and see if they can adapt their lawn program
the wrong time or to the wrong pest.) In to fit your needs. If not, find one that can.
recent years, the more dangerous insec- Many larger urban areas have services that
ticides and fungicides have been taken
off the market for homeowners. But some
consumers have lingering concerns about
the health and environmental effects of
specialize in environmentally sound lawn
care. Another alternative might be to hire a
neighborhood youth who is willing to work
3e Wait before you
renovate
4e Choose the right
grass
under your direction.
certain products that are still available. Is your lawn is more weeds than grass? Whether you will be renovating or just
In general, chemical fertilizers sold Take a deep breath and wait a year. patching small spots, choose grass
for use on lawns aren't as dangerous. The Most Important Sometimes just changing the way you species and varieties that help solve
(Caution: Some products are a mix of fer- mow (high, often, leave clippings) will problems, not create more. Grasses
tilizers and insecticides or herbicides and Step be en:ough to tip the balance toward the differ in their susceptibility to insects
may pose more of a hazard than grass. But if after a year or two of mow- and diseases, how much light they
Read "How Grass Grows" (page 8) and
fertilizer alone.) True, many people use ing correctly the grass is still weak and need, and how much traffic they can
understand these simple concepts.
way too much fertilizer. And over- the lawn is more than 50 percent weeds, take. (See "Choosing Lawn Grasses,"
Everything you do (or avoid doing) is
application or misapplication can result based on the fact that cool - season lawn
your best option might be to start over page 1~.)
in fertilizers polluting waterways and and totally renovate your lawn. (See
grasses grow best when it's , well, cool.
wells in addition to weakening your grass . "Renovating and establishing a lawn,"
And they need to store energy and nutri-
But smaller amounts of chemical fertilizer page u.)
ents in their roots to get through winter
used judiciously can solve other problems and green up well in spring.
by helping your grass outcompete weeds
and resist pests and diseases.
2

Lawn Care without Pesticides

 between these areas, chances are good
Gather More
5e
that correcting the pH or nutrient defi-

Do not focus on
spring fert ilization
6e Do focus on fall
fertilization
Information
If you had been mowing your lawn too
ciency will improve grass growth in the
poor areas. Contact your county Cornell
Cooperative Extension office (see "For
Even if you don't plan to use chemical For most low- maintenance lawns, short, watering incorrectly, or applying More Information," inside back cover)
fertilizers over the long haul, applying a single application of nitrogen too much or too little nitrogen fertilizer for soil testing information. Adjust pH
a little bit can help boost grass growth (1lb. Nh,ooo sq. ft.) between at the wrong times, you may notice some and follow fertilizer recommendations
while you are changing your mow- Halloween and Thanksgiving (about big differences in how your grass grows supplied with the soil test results.
ing and management style. The key two weeks after your last mowin g) is and looks after a year or two of doing it
is not to apply nitrogen fertilizer to best . If you applied n o nitrogen last right. Hopefully, you now have a thicker Obse rve Soil Con ditions
healthy turf in early spring. Doing so fall , apply 1lb. Nh ,ooo sq. ft. around sod, healthier grass, and fewer weeds. Sometimes the condition of the soil
will encourage lush top growth at the Memorial Day. Then begin applying Your grass probably has deeper roots that rather than its fertility is the problem.
expense of roots, and those roots need fertilizer in fall when it encourages help it stay green longer during dry spells Is your lawn weak in areas where water
to go deep for moisture to outcompete strong root growth. (See "Fertilizing," without watering. And you've gotten used collects and drains slowly after it rains?
weeds during the hot, dry summer page 9.) to your grass being a little higher and a Use a shovel to dig into the soil and see
months . One exception: If your turf is little more uneven between mowings. if it is compacted or if there is a hard-
thin, a spring N application can help But you may still have spots where more pan (compacted layer) below the soil
thicken it so that weeds don't gain weeds are growing than gTass or where the surface. You will be able to tell because
a foothold in the thin spots. Be sure grass doesn't grow as well as other places the grass roots won't penetrate into
to do this along with reseeding bare
spots. (See "Repairing Small Spots,"
page 9.)
7e Stop Watering
In many cases, watering your lawn
in the yard. Now it's time to focus your
attention on these problem areas, do some
detective work to find out what's wrong
these hard -soil areas.
Layering of soil is another problem
to look for. This can occur after con-
can do more harm than good. (Sure, with them, and take action to resolve the struction if only a thin layer of topsoil
if you have a sandy soil that dries out problem: was added when the grass was replanted
quickly, you will need to water most or when sandy topsoil was applied over
years.) Improper watering can lead to Test the Soi l clay topsoil. In either case, the result is
more disease problems and shallow- The soil in these trouble spots may lack often poor drainage and a poor lawn.
rooted plants that are more vulnerable the nutrients your grass needs to grow Fixing compacted or poorly drained
to drought and weed competition. If well. Or perhaps the pH (acidity or alka- areas might necessitate hiring a profes-
you do plan to water, make sure you do linity) of the soil is outside the range pre- sional to regrade and renovate the area.
it right. (See "Watering, " page 10.) ferred by most lawn grasses (6.0(.0). Or you may be able to relieve the
If you haven't done so already, take soil compaction by using a core aerator
samples both from areas where your (available at rental stores). (For more
grass grows well and from where it grows information on core aeration, see
poorly, have them tested, and compare "Relieving Thatch," page 15.)
the two. If there are major differences

Lawn Care without Pesticides

 If there are spots with little or no soil compaction. Don't just pull out the good plants right along with the weeds,
topsoil, a possible result of new con-
Snuff Out Weeds weeds-relieve the compaction. Violets and they do not solve the problem that
stmction, adding purchased topsoil Despite your best efforts, some weeds (Viola spp.) are a good sign of low light helped the weeds gain a foothold.
and reseeding might be the solution. In probably remain, especially in high- levels. One solution might be to seed
Nonselective "natural" herbicides.
areas that are chronically wet, grass may traffic areas and next to pavement. shade-tolerant fine fescues. Ground
Like glyphosate, these herbicides will
not be the best ground cover. Instead, Weeds are opportunists and will exploit ivy (Glecho ma hederacea) often thrives
kill plants they come in contact with,
consider planting certain species of bare spots or places where grass is weak where grass is cut too short. Red sorrel
but they use different active ingre-
shrubs or herbaceous perennials that to gain a foothold. (Rumex acetosella) thrives in wet, acidic
dients, including acetic acid (often
thrive in saturated soils. Perennial weeds (those that regrow soil.
derived from vinegar). ethanoic acid,
If your lawn has a history of high from their roots every year) can spread
Weed by hand pelargonic acid, fatty acids, and clove
fertilization, compaction, and poor and make a lawn unsightly. Examples
This is easiest when the soil is slightly oil. These products usually work best on
drainage, thatch (a build -up of dead include dandelions, plantain, ground ivy
moist. Check your garden center or young annual weeds. Tough, established
and decomposing grass stems) might (creeping Charlie), and nutsedge. These
catalogs for tools that help pull tough perennial weeds may require several
be the problem. (See "Relieving Thatch, weeds are particularly troublesome
perennials, such as dandelions, out by applications. As with any herbicide,
page 15.) because even if you kill the tops, they
their roots. Research shows that if you follow label directions precisely.
will regrow from their roots.
Watch the sun Annual weeds (those that die at the remove only the leaves above ground, Boiling water. Weeds in cracks in
Grass needs a minimum of four hours end of the season and come back from you will have to repeat the process 8 pavement and other spots that are dif-
of direct sun daily. Even six hours a day seed the next year) can leave bare spots to 10 times before the roots of some ficult to weed can be killed with boiling
is marginal. If your gnss gets less than that are vulnerable to mnoff. Examples perennial weeds will die. water. Use care not to burn yourself or
that, it probably can't compete with include crabgrass, knotweed, and annual plants you don't want to kill. Remember
weeds that can get along with less sun. Use other weeding "tools"
bluegrass. To get them under control you that this will probably kill only the tops
See "Coping with Shade" (page 16) for Lately. "natural" products have come
need to kill them before they set seed, and that perennial weeds will regrow.
suggestions. onto the market as alternatives to
and then improve the soil conditions to Commercial-scale machines that use
chemical herbicides. Researchers at
favor lawn grasses. steam to kill weeds are on the market,
Deal with high-traffic areas Cornell have tested one of them, corn
The first line of defense against all but few landscapers have them. Smaller
Even if you use lawn chemicals, it's gluten meal. When this product was
weeds is preventive practices. Before you versions may be available commercially
unlikely you will ever have a nice lawn applied in early spring, before crab-
start attacking weeds individually. make in the future.
under the swing set. Even the toughest grass germinates, lawn grasses grew
sure that you are following the steps
grass will withstand only so much traf- better than unfertilized plots and crab - Flame weeders. Specially designed
starting on page '4, especially mowing
fic. To keep weeds from invading and grass was reduced somewhat. But the flame weeders-powered by propane or
correctly, reducing compaction, repair-
taking over (and then spreading to the effect was not significantly different similar fuel-can be an effective non-
ing bare spots, and fertilizing in fall.
rest of your lawn) where grass is weak- from using natural or chemical fertil- selective weed killer. But you must use
Here are some other strategies:
ened by foot traffic, consider estab- izers to make the lawn grasses more extreme care not to scorch plants or set
lishing stone or gravel paths or other Get to the root of the problem competitive. mulch and other combustibles on fire.
"hardscaping" solutions. Prevent and Let the weeds be your guide. If weeds If you want to avoid using "non-
relieve salt damage adjacent to walks dominate an area, it's likely that some- selective" synthetic herbicides such
and driveways and damage from dog thing is wrong with either the grow- as glyphosate (Round-Up). you have
urine throughout the lawn. (See "Salt ing conditions or your lawn practices. several alternatives. But keep in mind
Damage," page 16.) Dense stands of prostrate knotweed these share the same liability as broad-
(Polygonum aviculare) are a good sign of spectrum herbicides: They will kill

Lawn Care without Pesticides

Manage Insects "Scout " for insect pests worms, sod webworms, chinch bugs, and lower than optimal for this pathogen,
In the Northeast, white grubs are the most bluegrass billbugs. If these insects are and many times the damage is caused by
Many insects live in lawns, but few of common lawn insect pests. Chinch bugs. a problem, choose endophytic varieties other gn.tbs that aren't affected by milky
them are pests. Many are beneficial billbugs, and sod webworms cause trouble of perennial ryegrass and fine -leaf and spore.
insects that help keep pests under con- only occasionally. Before deciding what to tall fescues. (Endophytes are beneficial The use of nematodes (microscopic
trol or perform other useful ecological do about insect pests, you need to "scout" fungi that live on the grass and discour- worm -like organisms) to control grubs
roles. Most pesticides applied to home for them to find out what species are pres- age surface feeders.) shows more promise. But effectiveness
lawns are either unneeded or ineffec- ent and if there are enough to warrant depends on matching the nematode
tive, and they kill beneficial insects treatment. You also need to time treat- Try using biocontrols species with the grub species causing
along with the insect pests. ments for when they will be most effec- Several biological control products are the problem. Results also vary depend-
Chances are good that if you do tive. For more information about common on the market to control grubs (the ing on temperature, moisture, and
everything you can to maintain a healthy insect pests-how to identify them, scout larvae of Japanese beetles and similar other environmental factors. Contact
turf, your grass will be able to tolerate for them, and when treatment is justified- insects that live underground and feed your county's Cornell Cooperative
modest insect pest infestations. But visit www.gardening.cornell.edu/lawn. on grass roots). Studies in northern Extension office for more information
sometimes pests gain the upper hand regions show that milky spore, a fungal on nematodes.
and cause aesthetic damage to the lawn. Plant endophyt ic grass pathogen that i.nfects Japanese beetle
If damage is heavy, they can kill enough varieties gn.tbs , usually does not reduce turf
gTass to leave the soil vulnerable to soil Some grass varieties are resistant to insects injury from grubs, so we do not recom-
erosion and invasion by weeds. that feed above the ground, such as cut- mend it. Soil temperatures are often

Know where the pests are

Insects
Surface damage Subsurface damage
Insects suck juices from plants and cut or
snip grass blades and stems above ground.
Root system is eaten and plant uptake is
disrupted or prevented. Damage appears
as wilted turf that does not revive when
~~ ·
~'
1. Cutworms: Gray-brown-black caterpillars
that curl into a "C" when disturbed. watered. "C"-shaped, cream to white
2. Sod Webworms: Young caterpillars that
grubs feed on roots of all grasses. )
have black heads. Full-grown 5. Grubs:
2 3
caterpillars are brown to green, have European Chafer: Damage threshold
dark spots, and grow up to 3/4 inch long. 5 to 10 grubs per square foot.

.if.
3. Chinch Bug: Adults up to 1/4 inch long, Japanese Beetle: Damage thresh-
black with white wings that have a black old more than 10 grubs per square
triangle on them. foot.
4. Bluegrass Billbug: Adults are 1/4 to 1/2 Oriental Beetle: Damage threshold
inch long, have snouts; can be seen on 8 grubs per square foot
driveways and sidewalks migrating to the
lawn in spring. 4 5

Lawn Care without Pesticides

 • Keep grass leaves dry. If you water, Many products such as microbial
Prevent Diseases do so early in the morning so that inoculants, composts, and other
By the time you see a lawn disease, it is leaves dry quickly. Avoid watering at biostimulants claim to prevent or con-
too late to do much about it, at least in night. trollawn diseases. While some research
the short term. Lawn diseases are caused indicates that composts and inocu-
• Don't overfertilize. Too much fertil-
by plant pathogens, usually fungi. These !ants can suppress certain diseases,
izer can stress plants and leave them
fungi are almost always present, living most of these products have not been
vulnerable to diseases.
off dead and decaying material in the soil tested under controlled conditions.
but go unnoticed by humans because the • Plant disease-resistant grasses. Until more research is done, it might
grass usually fends them off. (They are not Choose the right grass for the site. still be worth testing the performance
dangerous to humans.) But when environ- of a small amount of some of these
• Improve drainage. Poorly drained
mental conditions are favo rable (usually materials on a limited area of your
low spots are particularly prone to
plenty of moisture and the fungi's favorite lawn. Overall, however, a healthy lawn,
disease.
temperature) and your grass is stressed, planted with a disease-resistant vari-
the scale tips in favor of the pathogen. • Increase air flow. Lawn diseases are ety, is the best defense against turfgrass
Infestations can range from barely notice- more likely where stagnant air col- diseases.
able to ugly to devastating. For informa- lects. Clear underbrush to improve
tion on identifying common lawn diseas- air circulation.
es, visit www.gardening.cornell.edu/lawn.
If you haven't guessed by now, prevention
is the best remedy. In particular, take the
following steps:

Lawn Care without Pesticides

Part II. The Details

Why Lawns Matter

Properly managed lawns offer major benefits to people and
the environment.

L
awns have a bad reputation these days. Some people think they
are sterile "ecological deserts" or, worse, sources of pollution or
human health hazards. But well- managed lawns are an environ-
mental asset. They can help protect or even improve water quality and control
erosion. By contrast, lawns that are poorly managed-whether as
a result of neglect or through the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides-
can be an environmental liability.
What you and your neighbors do with your lawns matters. Collectively,
you control about 9oo,ooo acres of lawn in New York alone-75 percent of
the managed turf in the state. Ensuring that your lawn helps enhance our
environment means being aware that small acts (such as not washing grass
clippings into the street or down sewer drains) can have a big impact on
our streams and lakes.

Lawn Care without Pesticides

Healthy lawns provide many Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, "summer slump," warm- season weeds such season, mowing is the single most time-
benefits and fescues-are cool- season grasses. as crabgrass (Digitaria spp.) thrive because consuming lawn care chore. You might as
• Lower air conditioning bills. Moisture They grow best in spring and fall. they are more competitive in warm weather. well do it right!
evaporating from grass leaves helps The major exception is zoysia grass, a The combination of warm tempera-
keep air temperatures cooler compared warm -season grass occasionally grown in tures and lack of moisture can cause cool- How high?
warmer areas downstate. Most ornamental season grasses to become dormant and For a healthy, low-maintenance lawn, set
to paved surfaces.
garden grasses are warm -season grasses. turn brown during dry summers. In most your lawn mower to trim grass to 3 inches
• Less pollution. Lawns can help filter The roots of cool-season grasses grow cases, the grasses haven't died. They will or higher-likely the highest setting on
pollutants out of the air and reduce best between 55° F and 65° F. Shoots grow green up and grow again in fall when your rotary lawn mower. (If you 're not
noise pollution, especially when used sure how high your mower leaves the
best between 67° F and 75° F. In early cool weather returns and soil moisture is
along with physical barriers. spring, even before the grass starts to green replenished. grass, take a ruler and place the end on
up , the roots break dormancy and begin Top-growth continues in fall until there the soil surface and measure the grass
• Higher property values. Attractive
growing. are about 10 days with average daily tern- after you mow.)
lawns contribute to the overall appear-
The combination of long days, cool peratures below 50° F. Roots will continue The reason to mow high is that the
ance of a community's landscape.
temperatures, and adequate moisture pro- to grow and take up fertilizer until the roots underground mirror the shoots on
• A place to play. Grasses are the only duces a flush of growth in the spring. This ground freezes. top. The shorter you mow, the smaller
plants that can withstand repeated the root systems will be. Small root sys-
sometimes makes it challenging to keep up
recreational use. with mowing. In a normal year, 6o percent tems leave your lawn more vulnerable
• Better water quality. The thick sod of grass growth occurs during six weeks in Mowing to drought, insects, and invasive weeds.
Short lawns also require more frequent
formed by grasses helps water soak spring. Mow high, mow often, and leave
As temperatures warm during summer, fertilization. Longer grass helps cool the
into the ground. This aids in reducing the clippings
growth slows and lawns require less fre- soil surface, reducing water loss from the
or eliminating runoff that can carry Proper mowing gives grass a competi-
quent mowing. Roots can be damaged when soil and decreasing competition from
soil or other contaminants into water- tive advantage over weeds and helps keep
temperatures are above 85° F. During this warm -season weeds such as crabgrass.
ways . your lawn healthy. Over the course of the
The good news is, you can reap most
of these benefits without spending much
money or taking more time than you are Focus on fall fertilizing!
probably already spending on maintaining
your lawn.
Explore this publication and you'll
discover the hows and whys of growing a
healthy lawn.

How Grass Grows

If you understand cool-season
grasses, you can help them
thrive
Most lawn grasses grown in New York
(and areas that have similar conditions)-
JUN JULY SEPT oa NOV DEC

8
Lawn Care without Pesticides
How often? to distribute them or rake them up so a sidewalk or driveway, localized winter
that they don't kill the grass underneath kill, or dog urine. Whatever the cause, the
Fertilizing
It depends. Let the grass be your guide,
using the one-third rule: never remove them. first step to repair the spot is to loosen Use only what you need, and
more than one- third of the grass blade Clippings return nutrients to the the soil with a rake or similar tool. avo id spring applications
when you mow. That means if you are soil, so you can use less fertilizer. They Choose grass seed that matches your Just like people, lawns need a balanced
cutting your lawn to a 3- inch height, you can also cool the soil and help it retain site. If the spot receives less than six diet. If you fertilize them too much, too
should mow before the grass is more than water. Do not blow or leave clippings hours of direct sun a day, select a shade- little, or use the wrong kind, they won't
4·5 inches tall. During the spring flush, where they will wash into streets or sewer tolerant mix that includes tall fescue or be healthy.
you may need to mow every three to five drains and end up polluting our water- fine-leaf fescue. (For more information,
days. During the summer slump, the ways. Clippings are high in phosphorus, see "Choosing Lawn Grasses," page q .) Test your soil
a major non -point source pollutant. If To ensure even coverage on a small A soil test will tell you how much phos-
interval may be two weeks or more. If you
you have a lake , pond, or stream on your spot, try mixing 1 part seed with 3 parts phorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizer
are cutting the grass shorter, you will need
property. establish a natural buffer zone topsoil. potting soil, or compost. Sprinkle your lawn needs, if any. Contact your
to mow more often to avoid violating the
between your lawn and the water. Allow the seed- soil mix evenly on the bare spot. county Cornell Cooperative Extension
one - third rule.
the vegetation to grow long in the buf- Ideally, you should end up with about 15 office for soil testing information. If tests
When to start? fer so that clippings don't get into the to ~o seeds per square inch. More seed indicate that no PorK is needed, use
Start mowing in spring when the one - stream. The buffer can also filter out isn't necessarily better because crowding nitrogen fertilizers that contain few or
third rule says it's time: when the grass other potential pollutants. can weaken new seedlings. none of these elements.
reaches 4 ·5 inches if you are maintain- Use your foot to firm the seed- soil
ing a 3-inch cut. Stop mowing in fall as Anything else? Adjust pH if needed
mix. Close contact between the seed and
Keep your lawnmower blades sharp. Dull Lawns should have a slightly acidic pH
growth slows, usually about the time the the soil hastens sprouting. Keep the soil
blades tear the gTass instead of cutting (6.o(.O) . If your soil tests fall outside
daily average temperature falls below 50° moist, but water only enough to moisten
it cleanly. The wounds cause the grass to this range, follow instructions included
F for a week. Don't leave the grass more the surface without causing runoff. After
lose more water, increasing irrigation with the test results for adding lime or
than about 4 inches long going into winter seeds emerge, reduce watering to encour-
needs or moisture stress, and also leave sulfur to bring pH into this range.
because it can mat down and encourage age deeper rooting.
snow mold. the plants more vulnerable to diseases. You can leave the spot bare or, to Focus on fall
help keep soil moist, lightly cover it with If phosphorus and potassium levels are
What about the clippings? weed -free straw, marsh hay. or other
Leave them. They do not cause thatch, Repairing Small Spots mulching material. (Products made
adequate in the soil, nitrogen (N) is
the most important nutrient for gTass
contrary to popular belief. (Thatch usu- Repairing small bare spots from a combination of pelletized news- growth. Understanding how grass grows
ally occurs only when turf is excessively is one of the most important print, and water-absorbing gel, such as is important when making decisions
fertilized and soil is compacted, cool, and things you can do to keep PennMulch, are also effective.) Make about how much nitrogen fertilizer to
moist.) If you follow the one-third rule , weeds from invading your lawn sure at least 3o percent of the soil is vis- use and when to apply it (see "How Grass
the clippings won't smother the grass The best times to repair bare spots are in ible through the mulch. Start mowing Grows," page 8).
plants. They will dry out quickly and work early spring and late summer or early fall, when 6o percent of the grass reaches the For most low-maintenance lawns,
their way down to the soil surface where when temperatures start to cool and rains recommended mowing height (at least a single application (1lb. Nh,ooo
earthworms will help incorporate them. return (mid-August to late September or ~ to 3 inches). Make sure your mower square feet) between Halloween and
Mulching mowers chop clippings finely to as late as mid- October in downstate New is sharp because dull blades can rip out Thanksgiving (about two weeks after your
speed the process. York and on Long Island). young seedlings. last mowing) is best. Do not fertilize dur-
If the grass gets too tall and you end up Bare spots can be caused by foot traf- ing Indian summer, a warm period fol-
with clumps of clippings, use a lawn rake fic, compaction or salt damage next to lowing hard frost. Fertilization at this time

Lawn Care with out Pesticides

can cause excessive top growth, reduce Slow-release N becomes available to the 3o to 1 to prevent tying up soil nitrogen swath but can also hurl fertilizer into
root storage, and increase winter kill. The plant over a period of time depending on while they decompose. It is important streets and driveways where the next rain
best window for fall application is after soil moisture, temperature, and micro- not to apply too heavy a layer of soil or carries it into storm drains and then on
top growth stops, usually after 10 days with bial activity. The balance of theN is compost because these layers can prevent to watenvays. A drop spreader may take
average daily temperatures below so° F. water-soluble nitrogen, which is readily water from moving down into the soil. a little longer, but it puts the fertilizer
Roots will continue growing and taking up available for plant uptake. Compost applications should be light exactly where you want it. Use care when
fertilizer until the ground freezes. Slow-release nitrogen sources have a and frequent (perhaps every three to loading spreaders. Sweep up spills before
Organic nitrogen sources alone are lower risk of burning plants and a lower four weeks during the growing season, they pollute.
not a good choice for fall fertilization potential to pollute water than water- depending on growth and weather) , no
because they require warm soil and soluble N sources. The tradeoff is that more than 0.1 to 0.:4 inch at a time . Cut
microbial action to release nitrogen. slow-release N is usually more expen - your grass slightly shorter than usual Watering
Soluble nitrogen sources are readily sive. before topdressing so that the compost Be careful-you can do more
available to the plant, but leaching may Lawns grown on mostly sandy soils can more easily sift down to the soil and harm than good
occur on sandy soils. A so- so or 7o-3o should rely more on slow-release nitro- not bury the grass. Most lawns in New York rarely need
mix of slow- release to quick-release N is gen to reduce the possibility of rain or Using nitrogen from organic sources watering, except possibly for a few weeks
less risky to the environment. excessive irrigation leaching N out of the is almost always more expensive than in summer. With careful advance prepa-
For higher-maintenance lawns, root zone. Research shows that nitrogen using synthetic fertilizers. That's because ration, it is possible to avoid watering
you can also apply 1lb. Nh,ooo sq. ft. rarely leaches from lawns planted on organic sources contain less nitrogen, even during these weeks and still have
around Labor Day and/ or Memorial Day. soils containing silt and clay. much of which is tied up in organic mat - healthy turf.
(Neglected lawns or sods thinned by win- Natural organic fertilizers supply ter and not readily available to the grass. If you choose to water, it's important
ter kill may benefit from o.slb. Nh,ooo nitrogen in complex organic forms that Theoretically, as the lawn matures it to do so properly because poor watering
sq. ft. after the soil has thawed and are not immediately available to plants. needs less nitrogen, and more nitrogen practices can do more harm to your lawn
drained but before the grass greens up.) The fertilizers require warm (higher is gradually released from the organic than good , and water can carry pollutants
At least so to 7S percent of the nitrogen than 6S° F), moist soils for microbial matter you've been topdressing. out of your yard and into waterways.
applied to any lawn annually should come activity to release nitrogen. Natural
between August and November. organic fertilizers are well suited for Consider different needs Never water at night
Lawns that were not fertilized the applications during warm summer High -traffic areas usually require more The best time to water is early morning,
previous fall or have suffered from winter months when the potenti al for burning fertilizer than low-traffic areas. Different between 4:00 and 8:ooa.m. Evaporation
injury may benefit from spring nitrogen plants with high -salt synthetic fertilizers species of grass have different needs, is low at this time, so more of the water
applications. But wait until soil tempera- is higher. too. Kentucky bluegrass, for example, makes it into the soil. Leaves dry quickly
tures have warmed to at least SS° F before Topdressing (applying a thin layer requires more nitrogen than do fine-leaf in the morning sun, reducing the
applying. on top of the grass) with organic soil fescues. If bluegrass doesn't get enough chances of diseases. Avoid watering on
amendments, such as compos ted animal nitrogen, it is less competitive against cloudy days.
Water it in manure, can help improve soil structure weeds and pests. If fine -leaffescues
Give your lawn one-quarter to a one- half and break down thatch, especially if (which normally grow slowly) get too How much?
inch of water after spreading fertilizer to much N, they produce lush, weak growth It depends on soil type, cutting height,
applied in conjunction with core a era-
get the material into the ground where it that is susceptible to pests. lawn use, temperature, wind, and a host
tion. (See "Relieving Thatch," page 1S.)
can be used by plants. of other factors. In general, a healthy
The combination of topdressing and cor-
Apply with care lawn loses about 1 inch of water per week
ing can reduce fungal diseases in some
Consider the source The idea is to get the right amount of fer- during summer. (The process by which
situations.
Most synthetic lawn fertilizers contain at tilizer on the lawn and none into streams water is lost from the soil through the
Organic soil amendments should have
least 40 percent slow-release nitrogen. and lakes. Rotary spreaders cover a wide leaves and through the soil surface is
a carbon-to - nitrogen ratio ofless than

10

Lawn Care without Pesticides

called evapotranspiration, or ET.) especially if your watering system isn't Late summer or early fall is usually existing sod is probably more environ-
If your lawn receives an inch of rain- precise. Too much or too little supple- the best time to establish or renovate mentally sound.
fall every week in the summer, it will mental water can weaken plants, making cool-season grass lawns in most of New Another option is solarization. After
probably come through with little mois- them more susceptible to pest problems York (August 15 to September ~5 or as mowing down the vegetation close to the
ture stress. If you get less rain than that, and less likely to recover when cool, late as mid- October downstate and on ground to weaken it, spread clear plastic
you can make up the difference with moist conditions return. Of course, you Long Island). Temperatures are mod- over the area and anchor it in place. In
sprinklers or an irrigation system. Your should follow all local water restrictions erating, weeds are less competitive, and research on Long Island, this practice
water application rate should supplement during drought. moisture is usually adequate. killed the existing vegetation in as little
what you receive as rain. If you get half an as three weeks when the weather was
inch of rain one week, apply only another What can I do to prevent water Follow these 12 steps hot and sunny. Solarization can also kill
half-inch. (Use a rain gauge, coffee cans, stress? carefully: some of the weed seeds in the soil.
or other containers to measure rainfall • Plant grass species , such as fescues,
1. Control perennial vegetation to keep
that require less water. ~- Protect and test soil
and supplemental water.) other species from competing with Minimize cultivation and compaction to
It's also important to apply water • Mow grass higher, encouraging your new grass maintain good soil structure. If the site
no faster than your soil can soak it up larger root systems. The most effective way to eliminate needs grading, this might mean remov-
(infiltration rate). When your irrigation existing weeds and turf is by using
• Do not apply nitrogen fertilizer in ing and temporarily storing the topsoil.
rate (how fast you are putting it on with nonselective herbicides that contain
spring. Before establishing the final grade
the sprinkler) exceeds the infiltration the active ingredient glyphosate (e.g., with the topsoil , have it tested by a repu-
rate, puddling occurs on level areas. On • Leave grass clippings on the lawn. Round- Up) . Other nonselective herbi- table soil testing lab. The information
slopes, the water will run off and can carry cides include glufosinate (Finale) or the the lab provides will tell you how much
sediments and other pollutants with it. To herbicidal soap formulation Scythe.
avoid this, measure your soil's infiltration Renovating and Nonselective herbicides are designed
fertilizer, organic matter, and other
amendments you need to add to establish
rate by cutting off both ends of a coffee Establishing a Lawn to kill any plant on contact but do not kill a healthy new lawn. Allow two to three
can and inserting it several inches into the weed seeds. Once in contact with the soil
Late summer or early fall is weeks for test results.
soil. Pour about 1 inch of water into the can they are inactivated. This allows the new
and time how long it takes to soak in. Then the best time to get your turf 3. Establish a roug·h grade
lawn to be planted just five to seven days
measure your irrigation rate by placing a in shape for next year Take care of grade problems before you
after spraying.
coffee can (with the bottom intact) in the Before you decide to renovate your lawn, replant. Now is the time to eliminate low
To ensure an effective kill, wait until
area watered by your sprinkler and time try using the best mowing, watering, spots and resolve other drainage prob-
the vegetation appears chlorotic (yellow).
how long it takes to fill the can with 1 inch fertilizing, and weed and pest manage - lems. Gently grade steep slopes to make
Then either till the vegetation into the
of water. Your irrigation rate should not ment practices for a year or two. Pay mowing easier. Fracture compacted
soil or run a slicer or dethatching tool
exceed your infiltration rate. special attention to problem areas and subsoil layers to help water move down
over the killed sod.
rake up and reseed bare or weed -infested through the soil profile.
If you don't want to use herbicides,
What about drought? spots.
one alternative is to use a rotary tiller to 4· Amend and grade topsoil
It is normal for cool- season grasses If your lawn is still more than 50
kill the sod. It will probably take three Cover the subgrade with at least 4 inches
to experience summer dormancy in percent weeds after a few years , it might
or four tillings at about one-week inter- oftopsoil. Ideally. the interface between
response to lack of moisture. be time to consider a complete renova-
vals to kill the existing sod and weeds. the sub grade and topsoil should be grad-
Studies show that as little as !110 inch of tion. Planning is critical because during
Each time you till, new weed seeds will ual, not abrupt. Till a few inches of topsoil
water over a three-week period can keep renovation your soil is unprotected and
be brought to the surface, which you will into the subsoil, then add the remaining
the sod from dying. can easily be washed away into surface
kill with the next tilling. Tilling on slopes topsoil to the surface. If the topsoil is high
Under all but the most severe condi- waters.
leaves soil very vulnerable to erosion. in clay, add compost materials that are
tions, it is best to avoid lawn watering,
In this case using herbicides to kill the

11

Lawn Care without Pesticides

good soil conditioners and have relatively For more information, see "Choosing 8. Firm the soil (at least :4 to 3 inches) , start mowing.
high amounts of nitrogen and phospho- Lawn Grasses," at right. Light rolling assures good seed -to-soil Mowing encourages lateral shoot devel-
rus. These include biosolid composts Planting seed costs less than sodding, contact needed for the seeds to take up opment, increases stand density, and
(e.g .. Milorganite) ; brewery by-product but sod is preferable when rapid turf water and germinate. (For small patches , helps the turf out-compete weeds. Make
composts (e.g., Allgro); animal manure cover is needed such as on slopes that just firm them with your feet.) Do not sure your mower blade is sharp because
and yard-trimming composts (e.g .. need to be protected from erosion. Most overfill the roller because it may crush dull blades will tear young seedlings from
Erthrite); paper mill by-product composts cool-season sods are improved Kentucky seed and cause compaction. A properly the soil.
such as Glatco-lite. bluegrass varieties because their spread- rolled seed bed can reduce establishment
Organic soil amendments should have ing rhizomes intertwine to form a strong time by as much as two weeks.
a carbon -to-nitrogen ratio ofless than sod. Use high- phosphate starter fertilizer Choosing Lawn
9· Mulch
3o to 1 to prevent tying up soil nitro- when laying sod, just as you would with
Use weed -free straw or marsh hay to con- Grasses
gen while they decompose. Although it reseeding.
serve moisture and help prevent erosion. They're not all the same!
might sound like a good idea, do not add Keep sod in shade so it doesn't dry
(Avoid pasture hay because it is often If you are renovating or reseeding your
sand to high-clay soils in an attempt to out, and install it as soon as possible.
loaded with weed seeds.) Other effec- lawn, it's important to pick the right
improve drainage . The amount of sand Lay it in a staggered brick-like fashion,
tive mulching materials include products kind of grass for your situation. Each of
needed to improve drainage makes this matching the edges closely.
made from wood fiber, excelsior, news- the four most popular cool-season lawn
too expensive, and adding just a little
6. Seed at the correct rate print, and other erosion-control blankets. grasses (profiled on the following pages)
sand can worsen drainage problems.
The larger the seed, the higher the seed- Products made from a combination of has its strengths and weaknesses.
Avoid using uncomposted yard waste
ingrate. Studies show that there is no pelletized newsprint and water-absorbing Consider the following before you
because it may carry weed seeds.
benefit from seeding more than the rec- gel, such as PennMulch, are also effective. choose which grass will work best for dif-
To improve the water- and nutrient-
ommended rate. Excessive seeding rates ferent areas of your lawn. (See chart, bot-
holding capacity of sandy soils, add the 10. Water
create too much competition between tom of page J3 for summary.)
same kind of compost materials used to Germinating seeds and young seedlings
the seedlings. Seeding at the correct
improve clay soils. Add high -phosphorus will die quickly if allowed to dry out. Keep
rate or slightly lower encourages tiller-
seedbeds moist at all times until seeds
Shade tolerance
starterfertilizer with about 1lb. Nh,ooo
ing-lateral spreading of the grass plants. Grasses need a minimum of four hours
square feet and/ or pH modifiers such as emerge. Water only enough to moisten
(Sometimes if conditions are less than of direct sun a day. Areas that receive a
lime or elemental sulfur based on infor- the surface. Do not overwater, which will
ideal, a higher seeding rate may be justi- lot of traffic require at least six hours of
mation from your soil test. cause runoff. Gradually reduce water after
fied.) direct sun. If your light is marginal, plant
seedlings emerge to encourage deeper
5· Choose the right grass Use a drop spreader or rotary "spin" fescues, which tolerate shade better than
rooting. Once grass covers about 6o per-
The species and variety you choose will seeder calibrated to deliver half of the bluegrass or ryegrass.
cent of the ground, allow the surface to
depend on: recommended seeding rate. Then apply
dry. Drought tolerance
the seed in two different directions at
• the quality of sod you expect. If you don't plan to water during sum-
right angles to each other. This assures 11. Fertilize

• how much work you want to do to more uniform coverage. For more about About two to three weeks after seedlings mer droughts, or your soil doesn't retain
maintain it. seeding rates for different grass species, emerge. apply about 1 lb. Nh,ooo square much water, fescues are the best choice.
see "Choosing Lawn Grasses," at right. feet. This will increase shoot density and
• how you plan to use it.
the seedlings' ability to withstand diseases
Wear tolerance
7. Rake lightly Fine fescue does not stand up well to
• the characteristics of the site, includ- such as rust.
Mix the seed and soil so that the seed is traffic. Choose another species for lawn
ing the amount of sun.
covered no more than 1h6 to 1/8 inch 1~ . Mow areas that take a lot of wear and tear.
• winter hardiness. deep. Once more than 6o percent of the grass
reaches the recommended mowing height
• resistance to insects and diseases.
12

Lawn Care without Pesticides

Establ ishment will overwhelm the other species if
Typical mixes matched for different situations there is too much in the mix. (Also
Perennial ryegrass is quick to germinate
and protect the soil, which is an important Sunny, medium· to high- maintenance lawn: avoid annual ryegrass. It will germinate
consideration on slopes that are vulner- • 65% Kentucky bluegrass blend (several different varieties) and grow quickly, but usually dies over
able to erosion . Kentucky bluegrass is the winter.)
• 15% perennial ryegrasses
slowest to germinate , while the fescues fall
between these two. • 20% fine fescues Fine fescues
Seed at 3 to 4 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Growt h habit
Sunny, low-maintenance lawn:
Kentucky bluegrass spreads by under-
ground stems called rhizomes. It forms a • 65% fine fescue blend
tough sod. When damaged, the rhizomes • 15% perennial ryegrasses
can creep back in to cover the bare spot.
The other grasses are bunch varieties that • 20% KentUcky bluegrass blend
don't spread as well or form as dense a sod. Seed at 4 to 5 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Collar region
or
Leaf text ure The fine fescues are comprised of a
Fine fescue has very thin, fine leaves. The • 100% tal l fescue blend group of lawn gTasses that includes
leaves of tall fescue are coarse. Rye grass Seed at 7 to 10 pounds per 1,000 square feet. o creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra)
and bluegrass fall in between.
Shady areas: o chewings fescue (Festuca rubra var.
Maintenance • 100% fine fescue blend commutata)
The fescues are good choices for low- o hard fescue (Festuca longifolia)
Seed at 4 to 5 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
maintenance lawns that don't require fre- o sheep fescue (Festuca ovina)
quent fertilization or close mowing.
The fine -leaf fescues are the most
At the other end of the spectrum, Summary of cool-season lawn grasses
shade tolerant of the lawn grasses . Their
Kentucky bluegrass makes a fine-looking
leaves are medium to dark green and
lawn but requires more careful manage- Kentucky Perennial
Bluegrass Ryegrass Tal/' Fescue Fine. Fescue narrow, almost needle-like. They are
ment to stay healthy. For a Kentucky
primarily bunch -type grasses, except
bluegrass lawn to look its best, you need Poor Poor Excellent
Shade tolerance for creeping red fescue, which can
to fertilize it three or four times a year.
Drought tolerance · Poor Poor Some Some produce rhizomes. Fine-leaf fescues
Keep in mind that it is more susceptible to
are often favored as low-maintenance
drought and pests. Wear tolerance Good Good · Good Poor
grasses because they grow very slowly
Establishment (days) Slow Fast Ave rage to 'Fast ; ·Average and require little or no fertilizer. Fine
Seed mixes
30 to90 14 to 21 21 to 30 ' 21 to so
Grass seed is often a mixture of several fescues should be mowed at least~
species. Read the label to find out what 's . Growth habit Rhizomatous Bunch B'unch· Bunch inches or higher.
in the bag before buying it. "Variety not Seeding rate These grasses are well adapted to
specified" on the label means "buyer (lb./1000 sq. ft.) 1 to2 ' s to 9 5 to 9 3to 5 infertile, acidic soils and tolerate shade
beware." Try not to purchase a mix that is -..:' : better than other cool- season grasses.
Nitrogen fertlllzer
more than ~o percent perennial ryegrass . (lb:. N/7.000 sq.. ft./year) . 3to 4
They are not good for high-traffic areas
Because it germinates quickly, ryegrass because they do not tolerate abrasion,

13

Lawn Care without Pesticides

and like other bunch grasses they are Kentucky bluegrass This grass also is less competitive with Perennial ryegrass is a bunch-type
slow to fill in damaged spots. fast-germinating weeds and other lawn grass that does not produce lateral growth
Thatch can become a significant prob- grasses such as perennial ryegrass during in the form of rhizomes or stolons. Rather
lem if not managed properly because establishment. Studies show that as little it spreads from the base by small shoots
fescues are the most aggressive thatch as 3o percent perennial ryegrass mixed called tillers. This makes ryegrass plants
producers of the cool-season grasses. with 70 percent bluegrass will result in less competitive in a lawn with regular
(This is primarily because fescue's leaf 8o percent perennial ryegrass three years traffic that injures the plant and leaves
stems are high in lignin, which is slow to after establishment. To establish stands of open spaces.
break down.) Kentucky bluegrass , you need to use mixes In high-traffic situations, Kentucky
Collar region
Traditionally, fescues are used in with less than ~o percent fast-germinating bluegrass is more competitive, producing
mixtures with Kentucky bluegrass and/ or Kentucky bluegrass is the predominant species. rhizomes that can refill damaged spots.
perennial ryegrass. However, growing high-quality lawn grass for northern The drawback of Kentucky bluegrass's With ryegrass, weeds can often fill in
interest in low-maintenance lawns has climates. It is a well-adapted, perennial aggressive, sod -forming rhizomes is that open spaces before the grass can recover.
made blends offine-fescue cultivars species that spreads by underground lat- they can contribute to excessive thatch While ryegrass tolerates abrasion bet -
increasingly popular. eral stems called rhizomes. This enhanc- development. Under high fertility and ter than Kentucky bluegrass, it does not
If you use fescue blends as part of a es its ability to form sod and recover from cool, moist soil conditions, thatch may recover adequately. Overseed regularly to
low-maintenance strategy, you need to traffic damage. have to be removed physically, or core cul- maintain a competitive stand.
lower your quality expectations. Fescues Kentucky bluegrass is most success- tivation (aerification) can be used to mix Perennial ryegrass is most success-
do not hold up to traffic as well as other ful in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil particles with the thatch layer. ful in full sun with well-drained , fertile
species, and they often take on a "brown soil. It should be fertilized regularly and soil. It can tolerate mowing down to three
haze" appearance under full sun and Perennial ryegrass quarters of an inch, but does best at ~.o
requires irrigation to avoid summer dor-
dry conditions. These are the tradeoffs mancy associated with warm, dry condi - to ~·5 inches or more.
you need to weigh against the benefit of tions. Ryegrass is not well adapted to shade
reduced mowing and fertilizer applica- The major diseases associated with and drought, and vigorous growth can
tions . Kentucky bluegrass include fungal dis- cause thatch to accumulate. Major dis-
Sheep and hard fescues are more eases such as leafspot, dollar spot. and ease problems include fungal diseases
adapted to the low-maintenance necrotic ringspot. Pest problems include such as red thread, rust, brown patch,
approach, whereas chewings and red surface- and root-feeding insects such as and Pythium blight. This is most likely a
fescue perform better in traditional lawn white grubs and billbugs. result of reduced growth from low fertil-
mixtures that will receive regular fertil- There are many improved cultivars of ity and environmental conditions condu-
izer applications. Perennial ryegrass has become a popular cive to fungal growth.
Kentucky bluegrass bred for close mow-
Fescues have few major pest prob- component of lawn seed mixtures in the Ryegrass breeders have developed
ing (less than 1 inch), high -traffic areas,
lems. Under wet conditions however, United States as a result of improvements varieties that contain endophytic fungi.
disease resistance, and extremely dark
red thread and leaf spot can attack them. in color, texture, and disease resistance. It These beneficial fungi live in the leaf
green color.
Similar to the ryegrasses, certain fescue is used widely because it establishes quick- sheath and produce chemicals that deter
Kentucky bluegrass requires more
cultivars have endophytes to repel sur- ly and competes well. Ryegrass will ger- surface -feeding insects such as chinch
than two weeks to emerge from seed sown
face-feeding insects but are susceptible minate from seed in just two to four days bugs and sod webworm. Unfortunately,
in the soil and can take up to eight weeks
to white grub infestations. and will provide a uniform lawn within two they have no effect on white grubs or
to produce a dense sod. This limits its use
weeks . other subsurface feeders.
in overseeding and renovation when a
mature lawn is needed in a short time.

14

Lawn Care without Pesticides

Tall fescue Try core aeration After aeration, air and moisture can
compared to other cool-season grasses. The best way to relieve thatch problems penetrate the thatch through the holes.
Thatch is usually not a problem. is by core aeration. Contract with a local Leave the soil cores on the surface to dry.
Tall fescue is susceptible to brown landscape company for service or check Then rake them to distribute the soil
patch and Pythium. Similar to the rye- with your local equipment rental center. down through the grass to mix with and
grasses it has suffered recently from rust. Core aerators punch small holes in dilute the thatch. Don't allow the cores to
Proper nitrogen fertilization is vital to the lawn, pull out the cores, and leave wash away and pollute surface water.
avoid and manage these diseases. them on the surface. Core aeration is The mixing action of core aeration is
Collar region Tall fescue is most successful when most effective in late summer when similar to that provided by earthworms.
established from seed in early August temperatures are starting to cool and Core aeration can also help increase
Turf-type tall fescue is a bunch -type (several weeks before the best date for the soil is only slightly moist. water infiltration on compacted soils.
grass with substantially wider leaves establishing other cool-season grasses)
compared to the fine -leaffescues. It because it is less winter- hardy in the
has very deep roots that help it weather seedling stage. While generally not
drought conditions better than other recommended, spring establishment
cool-season lawn grasses. can be successful when soils warm and
The wide blade makes tall fescue seeding rate is increased slightly to
inappropriate for lawn mixtures with compete with weed growth.
other cool-season grasses (such as
bluegrass and ryegrass) unless it is
greater than 90 percent of the mixture.
Relieving Thatch
Breeders have developed exceptionally Don't blame clippings
dark green cultivars that are extremely Thatch is a layer of dead and decom -
tolerant of heat and drought. posing plant tissue that forms above
Tall fescue is more shade tolerant the soil. A thin layer (1 / ~- to 3/ 4-inch)
than bluegrass or ryegrass but not as is beneficial because it protects plant
tolerant as the fine fescues. It requires crowns and reduces compaction.
regular fertilization and should not be But if the layer gets too thick, water,
mowed closer than~ inches. air, and fertilizer can't get through to the
Tall fescue is tolerant of abrasion, soil and grass roots. Runoff increases and
but because it is a bunch-type grass that dry spots appear. When it's wet, thatch
doesn't spread much it requires regular can remain saturated and suffocate roots.
seeding to stay competitive in a heavily Leaving grass clippings on the lawn The lawn is pe; foro led during core oeroiion
trafficked lawn. when you mow does not cause thatch.
As a result of its "forage grass" heri- Clippings break down quickly in most
tage (it is commonly grown in pastures), cases. Thatch is made up mostly of stems
tall fescue has a very rapid leaf exten- and roots that decompose more slowly.
sion to replace leaves grazed by animals. Thatch usually occurs on turf that has
This trait has persisted even though the been heavily fertilized , and it is most
mower has replaced the cow. As a result, common on poorly drained , compacted,
tall fescue requires more frequent and acidic soils. Of the species of lawn
mowing under ideal growing conditions grasses, fine fescues are most prone to Core oeraiion improves infiltration on compacted soils
thatch problems.
15

Lawn Care without Pesticides

 Build paths turf. Apply only enough salt to do the
Coping with Shade If grass grows fine in your shady areas job after you remove the snow. Calcium
except where people walk, put in a stone, chloride- based deicing salts don't cause
gravel, or other path to concentrate wear as much damage as sodium chloride.
and tear in one area. Even though they are often suggest-
ed, do not use urea or other fertilizers
Mow high
as deicing salts. They can run off when
Grass in shady areas should be allowed to
snow melts and pollute surface and
grow taller than grass in direct sun. Do
ground waters.
not mow closer than 3 inches.
Spring rains may leach salts from
Fertilize and water less the soil if drainage is adequate. If it's
Grass in shady areas grows slowly and dry, you may need to water by hand to
needs less fertilizer and water. flush them out. If soil is poorly drained,
improve it by mixing in organic matter
Let in more light
to a depth of 6 inches , or remove soil
Remove lower branches and selectively ·
and replace it with fresh topsoil and
prune other branches or remove entire
reseed. Improve soil before reseeding
trees to let in more light.
because salt can prevent germination
and damage seedlings.
Salt Damage Dog urine causes similar damage to
salt and is often mistaken for disease
Look for damage along walks, problems. Salts in dog urine can kill
Most grasses are sun -loving plants. For Grow other ground covers driveways, and roads grass. Look for dead spots with greener
healthy growth, lawn grasses need at least Grass isn't your only choice. Consider Sodium chloride (salt) used for deicing grass around the edges. Female dogs
four hours of direct sun a day. Grasses attractive and vigorous shade-loving may cause bare spots or give an edge to and dry, infertile soil make problems
that receive much traffic or wear and tear ground covers such as hostas, pachysan- salt- and compaction-tolerant weeds worse.
need a minimum of six hours. dra, lily ofthe valley, English ivy, peri - along sidewalks, driveways, and road- To reduce damage , flush with water
In addition to being weak from lack of winkle, epimedium, sweet woodruff, sides. Soil is sometimes covered with immediately after dogs urinate or train
sun, grass in shady areas can suffer more andlamium. white or yellow crust. them to go elsewhere. Rake up feces
diseases because of cool, moist condi- Salt damage is often compounded to prevent them from smothering and
Plant a shade or woodland garden
tions and lack of air circulation. Poor by compaction from foot traffic, auto killing grass, providing an opening for
There are hundreds of herbaceous
grass stands in shady areas are vulner- tires, and piled snow. Even if the damage weeds to get a foothold.
perennial flowers and foliage plants that
able to erosion, which can carry sedi- doesn't kill sod, it increases stress on the
will thrive in shade as well as annuals
ments and other pollutants into surface grass, making it more prone to diseases
such as impatiens.
water. and weed competition. Weak turf in these
Mulch around trees areas is especially vulnerable to runoff
Options for coping with If you don't have the energy to main- into storm sewers and surface waters .
- shady areas tain a shade garden, consider using Kentucky bluegrass is very sensitive to
Choose the right grass about 3 inches of wood, bark, or stone salt damage. Perennial ryegrass, fine fes-
In spots that receive marginal light, plant mulch around the base of trees. (Don't cues, and tall fescue are more tolerant.
fine fescues, which are more shade toler- pile mulch against the base of the tree To prevent salt damage, avoid plow-
ant than other lawn grasses. trunk.) ing or shoveling salt-laden snow onto

16

Lawn Care without Pesticides

For More Information
Local information
Contact your local Cooperative Extension Office. InN ew York State:
www.cce.cornell.edu. For all other states: ·www.csrees.usda.gov/Extension.

Online resources
Lawn care
Department of Horticulture, Cornell University
www.gardening. cornell. edu/lawn

Home gardening
Explore Cornell
www.explore.cornell.edu/homegardening

Weeds and your lawn

New York State IPM Program
www .nysipm.cornell.edu/publical ions/weedslawn

Grubs in your lawn

New York State IPM Program
www.nysipm.cornell.edu/puhlications/gruhs This publication is issued to further Cooperative Extension work mandated by ac1s of Congress of May 8 and
Junr 3o. '9'4· It was produced with the cooperation oftht' U.S. Dep3rtmcnl of Agriculrure: Cornell Cooperative
Extension: and College of Agriculture and Ltfe Sciences, College of !Iuman Ecology. and College of Veterinary
Medicine at Cornell University. Cornell Cooperative Extension provides ~qual program and employment oppor-
tunities. Helene Dillard. Director.

IfM ·~Y •• k ..... .......... .

Illustrations b.v jim Houghton

~.M·.......m·..........
~Copyright ~oos Cornell University
Produced by Office of Public;ations and Marketing at Cornell University
Printed on recycled paper
•4tlB24II 7/05 CR oso524
ISBN •-sTis3 -3oo 3
 "''

his essential text focuses on reducing environmental stressors on your grass

T plants as the key to a lush, beautiful, and thriving lawn. If you understand how
grass grows, why lawns matter, and do everything possible to reduce stress,
your lawn will grow stronger, stand up better to weeds, and be more resistant to
insects and diseases. Consequently, you will spend less time and less money on lawn
chemicals, and quite possibly never use pesticides on your lawn again. The key is how
far you want to go. The principles and practices you learn in this publication will help
no matter which chemicals you want to give up and how fast you want to do it.
Lawn Care without Pesticides begins with a seven-step first-year plan. Patience
and careful attention to important indicators of lawn health during the first year may
not result in a perfect lawn immediately but will go a long way toward achieving your
goals. During the first year make sure you also gather information about your lawn:
test your soil, observe soil conditions, watch the sun, and note high-traffic areas. Now
it's time to roll up your sleeves and actively snuff out weeds, manage insects, and
prevent diseases based on your observations. In addition to learning effective practices
for achieving a beautiful lawn, you will learn why lawns matter; how grass grows;
best mowing, watering, and fertilizing practices; and how to repair small bare spots,
renovate and establish lawns, choose grasses for your lawn, relieve thatch, cope with
shade, and deal with salt damage.
Adorned with helpful diagrams and tables throughout the text, as well as a page
devoted to additional lawn care information, Lawn Care without Pesticides will find a
special place reserved among other classic Cornell Cooperative Extension bulletins as
a true homeowner's and gardener's reference .

.lrM ._,. .,. .,. . . .,. .

Illustrations by Jim Houghton
M..........,.......,

©Copyright zoos Cornell University

ISBN 1-577-53300-3
Produced by Office of Publications and Marketing at Cornell University
Printed on recycled paper
141IBz48 7/ os CR oso5z4 111111111111111111111111111111
9 781577 533009

ISBN l -sns3-3oo-3