Our tips are for cool-season lawns like bluegrass and fescues.
Lawn calendar
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
soil test
aerate
topdress
fertilize
lime
seed
mow
water
annual weeds
perennial weeds
grubs
disease
Routine Care
Remove debris and leaves to keep your grass from being smothered. Shred leaves to use for mulch or to add to your compost pile. For efficient composting add some nitrogen fertilizer, about ¼–½ cup per bushel of leaves.
Fertilize established lawns when grass is still green, but not growing. If you did not test your soil, apply 12-4-8 or 16-4-8 at a rate of 1 lb nitrogen per 1000 square feet. Fall is a good time to apply lime if your soil test indicates that it is needed.
Mow to 3–3½ inches.
Supplement rainfall as needed to provide 1 inch of water weekly. This should wet the soil to a depth of 4–6 inches. You can check by probing the soil with a screwdriver.
problems
If you applied preemergent herbicide in August or early September, you may be due for the 6–10 week follow-up application. If you seeded in September, you can apply preemergent once at least 6 weeks have elapsed. Apply when the soil temperature is 50–70°F. Check the soil temperature on the NC CRONOS map or, alternatively, apply once daytime highs are above 55°F for 3–5 days. Control winter annual broadleaf weeds Earth-wise Guide to Weeds
