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TMD Apr 2
Is it time to fertilize my hay meadows?
Usually around the first of April temperatures are warm enough for grass to start growing. Nighttime temperatures usually average 50-55 for this time of year. Bermuda grass starts to grow well when nighttime temperatures get up above 60 for 14 days. We have had a few nights in the upper 30's and many in the lower 40's in the last 2 weeks so grass may still be a little slow growing. In cases like that, grass will not be able to utilize all the nutrients you put out. But keep a close watch on temperatures for the next week or two. Temperatures continue to warm up and the middle of the month is shaping up to be the start of the season. If that's the case start preparing now to schedule fertilization of your place. If not, when it is time, your dealer may have a few days of scheduled fertilizing work ahead of you. If you would like to spread your own fertilizer, pull buggies are available usually with just a day or two notice. With fertilizer prices higher than last year, this can save you a good bit of money. On an 10 acre area with 400 pounds/acre, you can save around $20.00 by renting a buggy. That's just something to think about.
Something else to think about is rainfall. We have had our fair share through the first of the year and the ground has plenty of moisture. It still looks like the rain will continue so getting the fertilizer out early this year to get a good rain on it may not be necessary. Watch the long-term forecasts, plan a week or two ahead with your dealer, then set back and watch your grass grow.
My quote of the week comes from Anon. It reads, "If you can't speak softly, use the stick."
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