Fall lawn questions

By George McVey, Ph.D.
Contributing Writer
Union County Post

Q: When should I apply a winterizer fertilizer to my lawn?
A: Winter is not the time to apply winterizer fertilizer to the lawn. The late fall application is usually applied in late October or early November, but only if fertilizer was also applied in early September. The September application sets the lawn up physiologically to receive the full benefit of the late fall application, mainly for increased root growth. If you plan to make only one fertilizer application in the fall period, do so in late September or early October.
Q: When should I cut back my ornamental grasses?
A: Remember to cut down ornamental grasses in early March. Cut to within a few inches of the ground using hedge shears, loppers, or even a string trimmer. Fertilization is required to compensate for nutrient loss; apply a 10-10-10 fertilizer at the rate of 1 to 2 pounds per 100 square feet. Calcium and magnesium are lost when removing foliage, therefore a soil test for deficiencies of these elements should be carried out periodically and recommendations followed.
The Master Gardener offers horticulture advice and tips, focusing on current issues, by volunteers who are with The Ohio State University Extension, Union County Master Gardener Program. For answers to gardening questions, call 937-644-8117 or e-mail gmcvey@ag.osu.edu.