Landscape Logic By Nancy Bauer
When it is hot, the weeds arrive
Typical weeds in the hottest part of the growing season include spurge, purslane, mallow, bindweed and thistle. Except for bindweed and thistle, one of the best controls is simply using mechanical means to eradicate them-namely, pulling them out or hoeing, if the area permits.
But don’t pull that thistle or bindweed!
If you’ve ever noticed that some weeds seem to proliferate after you pull them, you’re right! This happens with certain weeds that have regenerative root systems. Literally, the more you pull them, the more weeds you’ll get back.
When it comes to thistle and field bindweed, stop before you pull! Both weeds have amazingly long root systems. When you pull these weeds, most of the root system remains underground and will simply grow more weeds to replace the one you pulled.
The best control for these weeds is applying a treatment that will kill the above-ground plant and the root system so that they will be dealt with for good. If these weeds are in the lawn, be sure to select a product that will not harm the grass.
Some herbicides used to zap the designated weed may be harmful to other plants due to drift. Be very careful what you spray and when, as even a slight breeze can take the product where you don’t want it.
August Quick Gardening Tips
*Last month to fertilize roses. Get this done by August 15th.
*Powdery mildew can be a problem for roses, lilacs, columbine, asters, and turf. Restrict late day overhead watering by watering before noon to allow plant material to dry out.
*Weed your garden frequently. Watch to see that weeds do not grow so large that they drop seeds!!
*Add some mulch to trees and shrubs beds. Mulch reduces evaporation from the soil into the air and also keeps the soil slightly cooler.
Lawns
As we move into August our hot and dry conditions here in Colorado continue which in turn challenges us with keeping our lawns looking green, weed free and healthy. Lawns that suffer drought stress risk having broadleaf weeds, grassy weeds, and disease and insect pressures. Pay particular attention to areas in full sun, or on south or western facing slopes.
What are signs of a drought stressed lawn?
*Wilting appearance which will often show up in the same location
*Footprints or lawn mower tracts that remain in the lawn at least one-half hour after the mowing
*The turf is turning a shade of blue grey
*Brown spots/areas
What can you do to prevent drought stress?
*If you have a sprinkler system, make sure the heads are properly operating and are providing adequate coverage.
Sometimes heads can get out of alignment, become clogged or even possibly be broken.
*Water your lawn between 10 pm – 6 am this is the period when it is typically cooler, less windy and the humidity is higher, so evaporation losses are less.
*For brown spot areas extra watering can be beneficial in recovery