gmhTODAY Fall 2022 | Page 22

Alpine Landscape , Co . 8787 Monterey Road , Gilroy , CA 95020 Phone : 408.846.9511 • Fax : 408.846.9501 Contractor ’ s License No . C27 / D49 641870

Overseeding Turf Ahead of Fall Rains

short , give it a one-time mow as short as possible ahead of spreading the seed . Spread the seed per the label and apply a quarter inch of compost or planter ’ s mix soil on top .
Operate the irrigation system per your permitted schedule until the rains are , hopefully , here again .

Many are hoping for a normal winter ahead , which , on a normal year means Gilroy and Morgan Hill receive an average of 21 inches of rain . The past couple of years have been much lower , leading to prolonged drought and many irrigation restrictions across our region . Non-recreational turf , and turf not irrigated by recycled water , have been left to brown out and die .

Now that fall is upon us , let ’ s prepare our turf grass for rain should it arrive . Late October into early November is the optimal time to overseed , which means to put the seeds directly onto the turf . Daytime temperatures average 77 degrees and nighttime temps hover around 50 degrees .
Begin with aerating your turf . Grass roots need air , water , and nutrients to grow thick , deep , and strong . When soil becomes compacted in stressful situations , such as heat and minimal water , it inhibits the flow of the essentials that support thicker , healthier turf growth . Commercial or HOA aerations are typically done by core or plug aerators . Homeowners can rent cost effective spike or slicing aerators from your local equipment rental stores .
After aeration , let the soil plugs dry where they fall . They ’ ll break down or dissipate the next time you mow . Now choose the right seed . Our climate is best suited for a dwarf fescue seed . If your dry lawn is not already
Serving Gilroy , Morgan Hill , Hollister , and the South & East Bay Regions
We offer a wide range of expert tree care and maintenance services for both residential properties , including :
• Consultation & Recommendations
• Certified Arborist Reports
• Tree Selection
• Tree Planting
• Tree Pruning
• Root Pruning
• Deep Root Fertilization
• Soil Drenches
• Disease and Pest Diagnosis & Treatment
• Multi-year Tree Management Plans
• Tree Removal
• Stump Grinding
• Fire Prevention
• Regularly Scheduled Tree Maintenance
Our ISA Certified Arborists are happy to meet with you and provide an estimate for your tree care needs .
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