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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February/March 2005

Spring is here! The crocus bulbs have been blooming for several weeks and daffodils and tulips are soon to follow. This season often brings us a variety of weather conditions. A cool drizzly Monday easily changes to a warm sunny Thursday. These are the spring growing conditions that make the Northwest the lush region that it is. However, this cool wet weather does pose some problems as well.

Your Landscape technician will apply products that protect delicate spring foliage and blooms on your trees and shrubs from fungus infections that often occur as the result of damp or humid conditions. The total elimination of fungus infections is impossible. However, with careful ProGrass treatments, tree and shrub fungi (like Apple scab, rust, black spot) and lawn fungi (like red thread) can be reduced.

Proper feeding of trees and shrubs is also important. Without regular feedings with well blended nutrients, plants can't grow, bloom, and resist environmental stresses. Some stresses include heat, cold, insects and disease. ProGrass plant fertilizers do the trick and keep plants on track.

Your ProGrass technician will also keep an eye out for the dreaded lawn cranefly larvae. This winter/spring-feeding turf 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.

This year moss has been a severe problem. Moss loves cool moist weather and grows on almost any open moist surface. In your lawn, moss reduces the spread and growth of grass. To control it, ProGrass must apply a horticultural moss control each spring followed by core aeration, regular fertilizations, and fall limestone treatments. All these steps must be taken yearly to control moss.

Pruning is very important this time of year for your 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. Contact ProGrass for a free pruning evaluation.

MY PLANT PICK FOR THIS MONTH IS

Witch hazel (Hamamelis x intermedia)
Witch hazel is a great plant. It is one of the few plants that bloom during February and March. Its fragrant, yellow flowers offer a bright spot in the garden when not much else is growing. The blooming time often coincides with crocus but lasts much longer. Often the blooms can last for 6-8 weeks. The bright yellow, twisted petals smell best in the cool evenings, giving off a citrus-like smell. This plant also has medicinal properties and its extracts can be found on most drug store shelves.

Witch hazel has several varieties, some with red flowers. The blooming time and growth shape can vary. However, the ease of growth is consistent. These plants have few pest problems, requiring proper watering, regular fertilization and the occasional dormant spray. Pruning is best done in the spring after they bloom. They also tend to bloom on second year wood or older, so if you only trim off the 8-10 inches that grew last year you should not lose any flowers.