Seed now for a lush spring lawn

It may be fall, but a drop in the temperature doesn’t mean an end to yard work. In fact, homeowners can act now to ensure a healthy, green lawn next spring.

Andy Grondalski, the nursery manager at Sixteen Acres Garden Center in Springfield, told 22News on Monday, "For the lawn you can pretty much do anything. It's a great time to fertilize. Put down week control […] There's no set cut off. It all depends on the weather."

Occasional frost is normal in October. Until it becomes more frequent, usually late month or early November, homeowners can continue yard work.

Investment should be made wisely. Consumers can select products, like fertilizers, specifically intended cooler weather.

"There are products that are fall fertilizers that are a little bit lower in nitrogen and higher in potassium and phosphorus," explained Grondalski.

Special fertilizers, seeds, and mixtures of the two are designed to promote grass root growth.

Dead spots or small holes are signs of grubs. They can be treated in October for a healthier lawn next spring. Treatment does not interfering with grass growth.

Grondalski also recommended removing crab grass. The weed will regrow next spring. Once the patch of grass is gone, fresh seed and fertilizer can be laid down.

Trees and shrubs can be planted any time of the year. Bulbs are often planted in the fall.

Hearty mums are a popular fall flower. They can withstand a few frosts. Plants with closed buds at the time of purshase will last longer than those with fully open flowers.