Quote:
Originally Posted by Coop63
Our new pre-owned home has Floratam sod that needs some TLC. I have a landscape guy coming next week to lay down some new top soil and seed. Once we move in, plan to take care of the lawn myself. Coming from the North where we put down crabgrass preventer in mid April and weed-n-feed on the warm weather holidays (Memorial day, 4th of July and Labor day), aeriate and plant seed in the fall. I presume there is a general rule of thumb for central Florida?
We backup to a pond with the Village easement around to edge. Are there any environmental restrictions using weed-n-feed?
Irrigation system is set to 4 days a week, 15 minutes at 4am. I see the Village recommendation sticker on the panel, not sure if anyone follows that based on what I am reading. I know with new seed, watering should be more often. After that wondering if schedule should be set to less frequent, longer ?
Also read that it should be cut about 3-4". That seems high given that the grass blades are broad and tend to lay down.
I value the feedback on this forum, and know I will get some great responses. Thanks in advance
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1. DO NOT use weed n feed at all. If weeds bother you, treat them as they appear. The timing of weed control with weed n feed almost impossible.
2. 4x a week should be fine temporarily for newly installed sod, but not as a rule. The type of sprinkler head determines how long to water. Longer run times less often makes for deeper roots to help protect during drought and cold. Use a working rain sensor or run irrigation only when needed.
3. Yes there are environmental restrictions for ANY chemical use near water.
4. Fertilize 2x year October/April with a slow release nitrogen. I use Lesco 8-2-12 purchased at One Source in Leesburg. There’s also another product that is recommended by UF/IFAS that they sell.
5. Become friends with the local master gardeners. They offer invaluable, impartial advice, whereas providers push to sell you stuff you may not need.
6. Minimum cutting height is 2 1/2”; set your mower at the highest setting. Long healthy grass will help crowd out weeds. Floratam seed is not available nor does it “reseed.”