TMD Oct. 15

Is there anything I can do to "winterize" my hayfields?

During the fall there are a few things you can do to help your bermuda grass get through the winter and come back even thicker next year.  Fertilizing with phosphorus and potassium will get your grass in shape to come back strong next spring.  

Phosphorus strengthens the root system of your grass.  A strong root system means less of a chance for parasitic insects such as nematodes to attack and do damage to the plant.

Potassium will help your grass with problems such as fungus and disease and also give it winter hardiness and drought tolerance in the summer.  This will give you a thicker stand and a thicker stand of grass means less weeds to deal with.

Blends that work well in these situations are 00-20-20, 05-20-20 and others like these. The rate of fertilizer per acre can be 200-300 pounds.

Remember, you don't have to put up with weaker grass or slow growth during the spring.  You don't have to see dead spots in your hayfield every year.  By assisting your grass during the fall, your grass will reward you come spring.

My quote of the week comes from an unknown source.  It reads, "He who thinks by the inch and talks by the yard deserves to be kicked by the foot."