The Art of Lawn Care: Nurturing St. Augustine and Bermuda Grass for Canadian Homeowners
In the realm of lawn care for Canadian homeowners, two prominent grass types, St. Augustine and Bermuda grass, hold a special place. As we embrace the enchanting season of spring, Canadians across the country are eager to nurture their lawns to perfection. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the specific care techniques required to maintain and cultivate these grasses within the unique Canadian climate. Join us as we unlock the secrets of tending to St. Augustine and Bermuda grass, enabling you to create vibrant and thriving lawns that resonate with the distinct beauty and spirit of Canada.
St. Augustine Grass: A Spring Care Guide
St. Augustine grass is a popular choice for Canadian lawns due to its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types and its resistance to heat and humidity. To ensure the health and vitality of your St. Augustine lawn, follow these key steps during springtime.
Mowing
Timing is crucial for the first mow of the spring season, typically around mid-March when the grass begins actively growing again. Maintain a grass height between 2–4 inches, depending on the specific cultivar of St. Augustine grass you have. For instance, Palmetto should be kept at a height of 1.5–2.5 inches, while CitraBlue should be maintained at 2–3 inches during the spring.
Fertilizing
Spring is an important time to fertilize St. Augustine grass as it emerges from dormancy. However, it’s crucial to wait until the last frost has passed before applying fertilizer. If you fertilize your lawn and another frost hits, your St. Augustine grass will go back into dormancy, making it harder to green up again.
Irrigation
Once St. Augustine grass starts to come out of dormancy, it requires about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. If you’re unsure about measuring the amount of water your lawn receives, consider conducting an irrigation audit to ensure proper hydration.
Weed Control
Apply pre-emergent herbicides during spring when ground temperatures reach about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. These herbicides will prevent weeds from germinating and taking root in your lawn.
Bermuda Grass: Care Guide
Bermuda grass is another popular choice for Canadian lawns, particularly in warmer climates. It is heat and drought-resistant and thrives in full sunlight. Here are some tips to keep your Bermuda grass healthy and vibrant.
Mowing
Bermuda grass grows quickly, requiring frequent mowing, especially during rainy seasons. Maintain grass blades between 1/2 inch to 2 inches in length and avoid removing more than 1/3 of the grass blade to prevent stress. The first mow should take place in mid-March, after the final frost of winter, once soil temperatures reach 55 degrees or higher.
Sodding
The best time to plant Bermuda grass is in the spring after the final frost of the year (around mid-March). If you are starting with a new lawn, this is when you would add sod. Allow one full warm season (spring to fall) for the sod to establish roots in your lawn before aerating.
Aerating
Aerating helps break up compacted soil, allowing roots to receive essential nutrients. Bermuda grass should be aerated once or twice a year in late spring or early summer to prevent the lawn from drying up and to maintain lush growth.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is an easy way to provide your lawn with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and to combat weeds and diseases. Fertilize Bermuda grass 2-4 times per year between March and November, based on the results of your soil analysis.
Watering
Bermuda grass requires less water compared to other grass types, but it still benefits from regular watering. In the spring (March – May) and fall (September – November), water your Bermuda grass only if there is an unexpected hot dry period or if the grass is curling and wilting. During the summer, provide your lawn with at least 1.25 inches of water per week.
The Right Time to Plant Bermuda Grass
The best time to plant Bermuda grass in Canada is in the spring when temperatures are consistently warm, usually around April or March in warmer regions. Bermuda grass is not overly picky about soil type and even tolerates salt spray, making it a good option for coastal regions. While Bermuda grass thrives in full sun, it can tolerate some shade as well.
The Verdict: Leveling or Weed Control?
When it comes to lawn care, the question often arises: should you tackle leveling or weed control first? The answer depends on the specific conditions of your lawn. However, it’s generally recommended to address weed control first. Weeds compete with your grass for nutrients, water, and sunlight. By eliminating weeds, you provide your lawn with a better chance to grow strong and healthy. Once the weeds are under control, you can focus on leveling your lawn.
Conclusion
Maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn requires a combination of proper mowing, watering, fertilizing, and weed control. Whether you have St. Augustine or Bermuda grass, these tips will help you keep your lawn looking its best throughout the year. Remember, every lawn is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. It’s always a good idea to consult with a lawn care professional to develop a care plan tailored to your lawn’s specific needs. Happy lawn caring, fellow Canadians!
Colin Macmillan is a seasoned entrepreneur and the CEO of Riverwood Landscape, a leading landscaping company based in Canada. He has been at the helm of the company since leaving high school, demonstrating his strong leadership skills and business acumen.
Colin’s expertise lies in various aspects of landscaping, including lawn care, interlocking, sod installation, and commercial maintenance. His hands-on approach and dedication to the craft have been instrumental in building Riverwood Landscape into a reputable brand.
One of his most notable achievements is the creation of a successful landscape franchise that services multiple locations. This accomplishment underscores his strategic thinking and ability to scale operations effectively.
Colin has also had the privilege of working with Guelph Hospital for landscaping and maintenance, a testament to the trust and reliability that his company has earned over the years.
His professional mission is to offer the best services and experiences for customers, a goal that he tirelessly pursues. Colin’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction continues to drive the growth and success of Riverwood Landscape.
