Monthly Tips
September
Fertilize
The Fall fertilizer step can be applied during September. This called Step 4 and contains a formula to help build a strong root system in preparation for winter and next spring. The organic step is organic fertilizer or corn gluten meal based on your individual situation.
Plant
- Fall is the best time to plant a new lawn or to over seed and patch your existing lawn. The ground temperature is warm and seed grows rapidly. Water regularly keeping the seed moist until grass is 1 inch tall.
- Divide and plant early blooming perennials. New perennials, trees and shrubs can be planted now. Plant mums in your flower garden to add color until late in the year.
- Winter Rye grass can be planted in your cleaned garden and will provide natural nutrients to the soil in the spring.
Water
This is the critical month for watering evergreens in preparation for the drying action of winter. Give them plenty of water up until the ground freezes but especially in September.
Mulch
Add new mulch around trees, especially evergreens, to hold moisture in the ground for the winter.
Apply
Kill tough lawn weeds (ground ivy, violets) with a broadleaf herbicide.
Mow
Mow low (11/2-2 inches), cutting off crabgrass seed stems and bagging all material. Do not mulch the lawn when weeds are present in the fall.
Prune
Late season flowering bulbs can be pruned after blooming is complete.
Prepare
Get ready to plant spring flowering bulbs.
Obtain a good bulb fertilizer and if you have a history of animals digging, there are natural urines that can be mixed into the soil to ward off the diggers.
Winterize
When the mowing is done put a gas stabilizer in the tank with the gas and then run the lawn mower until it runs out of gas. This will help eliminate gel formation in the carburetor. Maintain your snow blower by changing the spark plug, greasing the auger shaft, changing the oil, checking the belt(s), skids and scrapper bar and testing the operation of the machine. Call for a service appointment if needed.
Needham Garden Center
- We carry thousands of the best quality spring flowering bulbs for your enjoyment. Bulb planting tools, fertilizers and animal deterrents are also in stock.
- We will pick up and service your snow blower starting now. Please call for a pick up appointment. We feature snow blowers from Ariens (including the “Pro” series), Snapper and Toro. We take the time to discuss your needs and help you select a snow blower that is best for you. Snow blower supplies dwindle quickly after September so, please order yours now for the best price and availability.
- Our parts department stocks all commonly needed snow blower parts and can order others. Feel free to discuss parts needs with us.