We have had an unusually mild winter so far. If “Robins” are indeed a bellwether of an early spring, then it must be just around the corner. I have had a huge flock around my home for several weeks now, so they must know something that perhaps Punxsutawney Phil doesn’t. Along with the mild winter comes the unsightly weed and mole problem. They both are having a field day with these moderate temperatures we have been having. As you may be aware I have been a big advocate of using pre-emergent herbicide for the lawn for many years now. However, this year many lawns are just not responding to the application as they have in the past. I believe that a lot of the weeds we are seeing are a direct reflection of these mild temperatures and the timing of the herbicide application. Although I’m not willing to suspend my turf cultural practices of the past, I am practical and realize that a post-emergent herbicide campaign will have to be employed.
There are many liquid herbicides on the market that will eliminate the existing weeds in your lawn and\or garden. I’m not so much in favor of one brand over the other, but you do want to make sure that the product you are purchasing will do as advertised. Read the label and make sure that your weed(s) problems are on the label. Also, be aware that broadleaf and grassy weeds (those with blades instead of leaves) have different herbicide requirements. Finally, on the subject of herbicides, you should still consider a pre-emergent herbicide program. Just imagine the weed problems without some measure of protection!
Those rascally moles! They are on a mission to track up every yard in the world! Well, maybe not quite, but they are a pest. First things first. They are after the insects in your turf, not your grass. Many people are confused on this issue, but the fact of the matter is you get rid of the food source and your mole problem will abate. While there are many products on the market for control the answer lies in applying granular insecticides at the right time and at the correct rate. The grubs’ that are most prevalent in our soil are the larvae of something else which will emerge at a later date. Make sure that the product you are using addresses these particular insects. Believe me when I say that all insecticides are not created equal. A fact I have learned over the years the hard way.
Finally, since we have been having this mild winter, there has been plenty of opportunity to get ready for the upcoming spring season. I hope you have been taking advantage. If not, get out there! Be sure to sign up for our weekly emails. They contain great info and deals to boot! You can sign up on the home page of our website. Also, like us on face book and enjoy our posts and photo albums.
Mike Wilson\ Weekend Gardener