2012 brings on an early spring!
The weather outside is truly grand but we must keep in mind the potential problems that can arise if it stays this way. First and foremost the potential for crabgrass germinating early if the weather stays this way is greatly increased. This means that in a typical year crabgrass germinates around mid-May. However, this year we may see this happen towards the end of April. This means that you have to apply a crabgrass control that will work as a pre-emergent as well as a post emergent for better protection when applied. NatureScape has that covered but the longevity of all pre-emergents is about 60-90 days. Should we continue with these temps throughout the summer you may see an early breakdown in pre-emergent control resulting in crabgrass germination. Since the manufacturers consider good control at about 85% of your lawn being crabgrass free, I think we will still have a sucessful year in crabgrass control. Keep in mind that the frost will kill crabgrass and the dead plants will not come back to life in the following season.
