Fall is a pivotal time for your turfgrass. It’s the season to nourish your grass and prepare it to combat winter weeds. Below are top tips for turfgrass fertilization and weed prevention you can use to create a foundation for a stronger, healthier turf come spring.
Fall Fertilization and Weed Control Tips
October 09, 2024
Fertilize to Promote Turf Recovery and Boost Root Strength
Proper fall fertilizing with nitrogen and potassium is essential for you to maintain strong, year-round turf. Because cooler temperatures provide relief from summer heat, the nutrients supplied during this time can aid recovery, promote turf density and growth, and ensure a durable lawn throughout the winter.
Smart Application of Nitrogen
In early fall, you can apply higher amounts of nitrogen but reduce the amount later in the season to promote carbohydrate storage in the turf’s roots. High amounts of nitrogen provided too late in the season can reduce the cold-weather hardiness of the turf. A controlled-release fertilizer gives your turf a steady supply of nutrients, without overfertilizing during this time. BEST’s own GAL-XeONE has advanced polymer coating technology that delivers optimal nutrients to the plant at a pace that matches its uptake requirements. This controlled release of nutrients can give you peace of mind and help keep your turf’s nitrogen levels adequate during the fall season.
The Power of Potassium
Did you know potassium is important for strengthening your turf to withstand winter stressors? Potassium is directly related to assisting with cell wall development and stronger roots, which could result in a more resilient plant for combating cold temperatures, heavy winds, and other unpredictable weather events brought on by the wintertime. In addition, potassium improves water retention in the cells, making your grass less susceptible to drought and dehydration during dry winter conditions.
Target Winter Weeds with Preemergent Herbicides
Winter annual weeds like chickweed, poa annua, and henbit can take hold of your turf when temperatures drop, germinating in fall and growing during winter. You can prevent these weeds from sprouting by applying a preemergent herbicide. Preemergent control is most effective in late fall to early winter, depending on your region.
Products containing Prodiamine or Dimension are excellent for targeting common winter weeds. Choosing the right product depends on the specific problems you are looking to prevent, and this information is easily found on the product label. When applying these products ensure your turf is well-established before application. Applying when turf is still establishing can hinder turf growth, making it easier for winter weeds to thrive and harder for grass to reestablish.
Treating Existing Weeds
If you've missed the preemergent control window, managing the problem is still possible with postemergents, though it may be more challenging. Keep in mind, postemergents are most effective when the air temperatures range between 65- and 85-degrees Fahrenheit, and soil temperatures have remained above 55 degrees for at least three days. Also be aware that colder temperatures can slow the product's efficacy, while hotter temperatures can lead to product burn.
If you need to control common winter weeds like Poa Annua and Chickweed, consider using a postemergent product containing Dicamba or a product with Trimec. Depending on your region, different herbicides may be necessary to control specific weeds effectively. To identify the right herbicide for your situation, consult the product label, and don't hesitate to seek advice from your local BEST representative or distributor. Also remember that it's essential to thoroughly read and follow the instructions on the product label, as different products may perform better under various conditions.
Combine Aeration with Fertilization for Better Results
Core aeration is an important step for you to consider when looking to improve soil health. Over time, foot traffic, mowing, and natural settling can cause soil compaction, which restricts the flow of air, water, and nutrients to the root zone. Compacted soil also limits root growth and creates an ideal environment for weeds to thrive.
Aerating your turf in the fall helps break up compacted soil, allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate more deeply into the root zone. This makes your fertilizer applications more effective and encourages stronger root growth. Also, because aeration reduces compaction, turf weeds are less likely to form and take hold. It is best to aerate in early fall, then follow up with a nutrient-rich fertilizer application to improve nutrient uptake and help combat future winter stress.
Additional Tips
Adjust Your Mowing Height
Raising your mowing height in the fall can help grass compete better with weeds. Keeping your grass taller provides more shade at the soil level, making it harder for weed seeds to germinate. Aim to mow no more than one-third of the grass blade at a time, keeping your grass around 2.5 to 3 inches high during the fall growing season.
Water Smart to Support Fertilization and Weed Control
Proper watering helps fertilizers break down and move nutrients to the root zone, while also aiding in weed control by strengthening your grass. Water your turf lightly after fertilizing to ensure nutrients are absorbed. But be cautious: overwatering can encourage weed growth and nutrient runoff. Strike a balance by watering deeply but infrequently.
If you’re unsure whether your turf needs watering, check the soil moisture by sticking a screwdriver or soil probe into the ground. If it slides in easily and the soil is moist at the root level (about 6 inches deep), you can hold off on watering. If it’s dry, it’s time to give your grass a drink.
Final Thoughts
A well-nourished, weed-free turf starts with thoughtful fall care. By focusing on fertilization for root development and using smart weed prevention techniques, you’ll prepare the grass to withstand winter stress and minimize weed invasions. With these proactive steps, your turf will be ready to emerge lush and green in spring.
For help finding the right nutritional needs for the turfgrass and ornamental plants you manage during this season, including pre and post emergent control options, contact your BEST Sales representative or local BEST distributor for a complete list of products.
