Lawn and Shrub Care, Irrigation Schedule

 

Lawn Care

  • Lawns in the panhandle area tend to be low in P.H. or high acidity. Therefore all grasses need medium to high applications of lime (granular or powder) once a year in spring or summer.
  • Fertilizer is also important in keeping grass healthy and green all summer. Sta-Green or other premium lawn foods are recommended. First application should be the first of April and again June 1st.
  • Note: by preference we suggest not using any type of weed and feed type of fertilizers.
    • Fall fertilizer is to strengthen the root system. Sta-Green Company also carries fertilizer for the fall season. Apply it on October 1st (one time).
    • Note: for best results do not over water Centipede or Bermuda and keep is cut regularly. St. Augustine can be watered more often and set the mower to cut as medium height.
    • Granular insecticides should be used in all lawns starting May 1st and repeat every 45 to 60 days throughout the summer for control of many insects that may damage lawn.
    • St. Augustine newly planted should have regular treatments of Fungicide for one to two years.
    • Herbicide should be used first of spring in all lawns where weeds are present. We suggest Image. Apply Image two to three times for best results.

    Shrub Care

  • At Dodd’s we pride ourselves on using the most care free shrubs and trees available. Although some require regular trimming, very few require regular spraying or chemicals.
    • A good rule of thumb is to always remember heavy pruning of any tree or shrub should be done directly after blooming. Selective pruning can be done anytime of the year to most plants. Remember for Azaleas, the last heavy pruning should be done before June 30th to insure blooms for the following year.
    • In our opinion shrubs and trees need more water than grass, to develop into healthiest and best looking plants.
    • Make sure beds have proper drainage and do not over water in low line areas.
    • Shade areas can also be easily overwatered.
    • Our company uses two year growing tablets when planting your material. After one year apply Sta-Green 12-6-6 two times during summer, April 1st, and June 1st.
    • Spray oil or insecticide soap can be used throughout summer to control many insects that may appear.
    • Pre-emergent (Snapshot) can be used to control weeds and should not be used if weeds are established.
    • Round-Up can be used around most trees and shrubs. Use caution in spraying. Spray only weeds and not in windy weather.
    • Never use Image in flower beds. Small amounts of Image can be used in ground cover beds such as Jasmine or Juniper.

    Irrigation

    • Centipede, Bermuda – one to two times per week for total of 1-1:30 hours
    • St. Augustine – three to four times per week for total of 1:30-2 hours
    • Shrub beds – one to two times per week for total of 1-1:30 hours

Note: This maintenance schedule is a suggestion from our company and is not always the best for every situation.