Newsletter
Welcome to the ProGrass information center! My name is Steve Varga
and each month I will be providing you with updated seasonal information on
landscape care. Please check back regularly for current information that will
help you have a better landscape and get the most out of your ProGrass
services. Also be sure to check my care tip sheets and if you have any
questions please click on my question and answer icon.
Learn more about Steve Ask Steve a question Past Newsletters |
November 2005November is an important month for landscapes. It is the point at which almost all trees, shrubs, and perennials go into dormancy. As winter gets closer, it is important to address important winter needs. Also, to assure a colorful spring, various plantings can be made now. Here are a few activities to consider this month: |
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| Bulb planting will assure a splash of spring color when you need it the most. It is not too late to plant but you must get the bulbs in before the end of the month. The most important steps to bulb planting include using top quality bulbs, adding bulb fertilizer at the bottom of the planting hole and mulching the soil after you are done. For more information please see my spring bulb planting guide. |
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| Sprinkler system winterization will save you from potential costly repairs due to freezing waterlines. ProGrass uses equipment that will force water out of pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads using compressed air. Contact us for more details. | ||
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Planting fall flowers will give you winter color that will last until late spring. Plants like Pansy, Viola, Dusty Miller, Primrose or Flowering Kale do the best in the Northwest even with snow or freezing temperatures. Just be sure to get them in this month. Fertilize them with a slow-reacting fertilizer and use slug bait. | |
| Lawns are just like people. They will need an antacid now and then. Limestone reduces the acid levels of soil to allow for more effective fertilizer use. The effect of limestone is short so it must be applied yearly. | ||
| Do you have trees or shrubs? If you do, they need care too. All trees and shrubs harbor some type of insect or disease spore. If left alone, the insects and disease will cause damage. Mature trees and shrubs are very valuable and often impossible to replace. ProGrass provides a comprehensive plant care package with service visits eight times per year. Starting this time of year assures that you receive our dormant spray and root-development soil injection. | ||
| All beautiful and healthy landscapes have one thing in common: their trees and shrubs receive regular and proper pruning. Most trees and shrubs do not grow attractively on their own. A ProGrass consultant should review the need for corrective pruning annually to be sure things are developing properly. Proper and consistent pruning costs less in the long run and provides you with natural, beautiful, healthy and long-term landscape plants. If you are not sure if your trees and shrubs are doing well, ask for a free pruning analysis. |
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| I love fall leaf colors. However those leaves are all falling and must go. Leaves on the lawn should be removed weekly. If you have no room for them, you can temporarily rake them into beds. But, don't leave them there all winter. Large amounts of decomposing leaves, needles, or branches are not the best for shrubs. If you have difficulty removing excess debris, let us know. ProGrass has cleanup crews ready to help. | ||
This is just a few of the most common November landscape needs. All landscapes are different. If you have any questions or needs, please let us know. Happy Gardening!
If you have any other questions, check my technical bulletins or contact ProGrass for more information at 1.800.PROGRASS or customerservice@prograss.com.
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