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.

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Past Newsletters

January 2005

Wow! The holidays are over. All the shopping and rushing are behind us. I love the winter and New Year holidays; they put a festive end to the year. BUT now that they are over, it is time to get back to business. We at ProGrass want to thank you for a good year. We appreciate your business and support.

While the cold days of this month will keep most of us inside, your ProGrass technician will be hard at work keeping your landscape protected and cared for. The treatments applied this month are critical to the Spring beauty and health of your lawn and plants. Many of our winter treatments, such as limestone, dormant sprays and weed pre-emergents, are only available during this time.

We will also be keeping an eye out for the dreaded cranefly larvae. This winter-feeding pest can quickly destroy your entire lawn, turning it into a muddy patch. Because this insect feeds so quickly, the damage may start between our visits. It is critical that you also keep an eye out for potential problems between visits. If you see a sudden severe thinning of the lawn with many small holes in the soil, call ProGrass immediately. We will check the lawn and, if the pest is present, we will treat it appropriately.

Pruning is also important this time of year. Many plants should be pruned at this time, such as shade trees, fruit trees, roses, vines, hedges, conifers and many deciduous shrubs. Proper pruning sets the framework for Spring and Summer growth. It also allows better air circulation and penetration by our spray protectants. Be sure to contact us for a free pruning evaluation.

And don't forget to visit us February 18 - 20 at the 2005 Yard Garden and Patio Show at the Oregon Convention Center. We're proud to be the show's presenting sponsor and have also created a display garden called "Carpe Diem" which showcases outdoor livings at its best! The show is also a great resource for ideas on home landscaping, plant care and products. I'm even presenting a seminar on exciting new plants. You can log onto the show's website at www.ygpshow.com for discount tickets, a description of the display gardens and a seminar schedule.