Fix bare patches on your lawn by overseeding or applying a grass repair kit. Usually a mixture of sand, grass seed and a slow release fertilizer, these repair kits work wonders on dead spots.
Did you set up a kiddy pool or temporary gazebo? Chances are that the grass underneath has died over the summer and needs a boost to bounce back. Keep this area evenly moistened until the new seeds root and try to redirect traffic wherever possible.
Service Your Lawnmower
Grass cutting duties tend to slow down in the heat of summer, but as temperatures drop and rain falls again your lawn will need attention. Be ready by servicing your lawnmower now. A seasonal lawnmower service includes blade sharpening, an oil change and spark plug inspection, depending on what type of lawnmower you own (electric, gas or manual).
Take the time to service other essential landscaping tools, such as your trimmer (a new string or wire helps to chop down pesky weeds and keep the edges neat), pruners (oil joints and disinfect blades) and shovels (clean the blade and inspect handles for cracks and weak points).
Choose Bulbs
Start thinking about which bulbs you would like to plant this fall, providing excellent color the following spring. Your local garden center should have reputable bulb catalogues available now, and online retailers provide plenty of selection and information, including growing habits, hybrids and planting instructions. It pays to think ahead and plan, allowing you to act quickly in early winter just as bulb-planting season begins.
Start Late Summer Seedlings
Adventurous gardeners will find a wide selection of seeds to sow in late summer, including wildflowers and late annuals like icicle pansies. Investigate which flowers should be seeded now, ready for planting out in fall. Some can be sown directly into the garden with adequate watering, while others need to be established inside.
Keep an Eye Out for Pests
Many pests hit your landscape in spring, only to disappear as the summer heat rises. Others become established and enjoy the summer as much as we do, wreaking havoc in your gardens and throughout the grass.
Tackle grubs and other lawn pests with organic solutions and safe pesticides. Grub control this year often leads to fewer pests next year, so think long term and do the hard work now. Get a handle on flying pests like Japanese beetles and red lily beetles with traps, insecticidal soaps and other pest solutions.
Rest and Relax
The most important end of summer task is to relax. Make the most of every warm moment left by spending time with your family and friends outdoors. Keep your landscape tidy, attractive and comfortable by following these landscaping tips, but remember to schedule time for rest. Hang out in the backyard, by the pool or in the garden to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Stay on top of your outdoor tasks by tackling these end of summer landscaping tips. Be sure to stay hydrated with plenty of fresh water and get started early in the morning to avoid the high heat of the day. Your lawn and garden will look great and prosper when these simple, yet vital tasks are taken care of.
Click HERE to see more about end of summer tips at JPCLandscapeDesigns
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