As summer begins to wind down and cooler temperatures arrive, September is an important transition period for Georgia lawns and landscapes. The work homeowners do now can help warm-season turf survive the winter and return healthier next spring.
For homeowners with bermudagrass, centipedegrass or zoysiagrass, one of the most important steps is allowing the grass to naturally slow its growth as temperatures and day length decrease. Avoid unnecessary applications of nitrogen fertilizer during this period. Nitrogen encourages new growth, which can delay dormancy and potentially increase the risk of cold injury and spring dead spot.
Fall is also an excellent time to conduct a soil test. A soil test provides information about soil pH and nutrient levels and can help determine whether lime or other amendments are actually needed. UGA Extension recommends collecting soil from several locations throughout the lawn and combining the samples for testing. This is much more reliable than applying fertilizer or lime based solely on the appearance of the grass.
Homeowners should also continue mowing while warm-season turf is actively growing. Maintaining the appropriate mowing height helps the grass retain moisture and maintain a healthy root system. As the lawn approaches dormancy, resist the temptation to scalp the grass.
Another fall task is preparing for winter weeds. Pre-emergent herbicides can be used in late summer or early fall to prevent many winter annual weeds from becoming established. Timing is important because these products work by preventing weed seeds from successfully developing into plants. Homeowners should always read and follow the pesticide label and select products appropriate for their particular turfgrass.
Fall is not just a time to care for the lawn. It is also an excellent planting season for trees, shrubs and many perennial plants. The cooler temperatures allow plants to establish root systems before the heat and drought stress of the following summer. UGA Extension recommends fall as a good time to install many landscape plants.
For those interested in growing vegetables, the gardening season is far from over. Cool-season crops such as collards, cabbage, broccoli, kale, lettuce, mustard, radishes, spinach and turnips can be part of a productive fall garden in Georgia. A soil test is also recommended before planting to determine the garden’s fertility and pH needs.
Fall is an excellent time to take care of the landscape before winter arrives. A little planning now—particularly proper soil testing, appropriate turf management and timely planting—can help homeowners protect their investment and set their lawns and gardens up for a successful spring. For more information, contact your local UGA Extension office. Madison County Extension office 706-795-2281 or uge1191@uga.edu.
