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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June 2006

Myco What? Mycorrhizae!

Mycorrhizae is just a fancy word for fungus root. However, this natural fungus deserves a fancy name. It is a group of helpful fungi that live in healthy soil and work to feed almost all trees and shrubs.

Why do we add these to the ProGrass NaturalCare program? Because most urban landscapes have been so damaged by the construction process, synthetic fertilizers and unnecessary pesticides, these beneficial fungi have died out. The absence of mycorrhiza results in turf and plants having limited resistance to drought, weak root development, poor color and lack of resistance to insect and disease.

If you want a healthy landscape, you must start with the re-introduction of these root helpers. They grow with the roots of your plants to extend the root surface area. This increases the roots' ability to absorb water and nutrients.

When we designed our exclusive NaturalCare fertilizers, we spared no expense. We added the most important types of mycorrhizae to our mixtures, and we added enough to truly benefit your landscape.

Each time we add fertilizer amendments to your lawn, trees, shrubs and flowers, we are also supplementing with top-quality mycorrhizae.

Because most urban landscape soils are so low in organic material and are affected by previous improper pesticide use, they are inhospitable to the survival of mycorrhizae. That is why landscapes require regular reintroduction of these beneficial fungi.

As ProGrass cares for your landscape, we will slowly build up both the organic content of your soil and the mycorrhizae population. Your plant roots will thank you for it, rewarding you with healthy and beautiful growth, naturally.

Getting The Most From Your Irrigation System

With the topic of water conservation in the news, people are searching for the best way to maximize the efficiency of their irrigation systems. Many people have been searching out the latest high-tech controller units with the belief that this is the only way to become water-wise. In reality, water conservation only requires these basics: proper design and installation, regular maintenance and thoughtful management.

Design and Installation

An incorrect design can be one of the greatest causes of system inefficiency, thanks to wasted water. The wrong choice of sprinkler heads, improper placement or an inappropriate combination of products not only causes water waste, it can lead to over or under watering portions of your landscape.

Put as much emphasis on your choice of rotors, spray heads and valves as you put into your controller. Low quality sprinklers and valves will not give you the results you want, even if you have a state-of-the-art controller. ProGrass uses HunterTM spray heads and rotors because they can be relied on for even water distribution and coverage. This provides less water waste and lower water bills.

Regular Maintenance

An irrigation system needs to be treated just like any other piece of equipment you want to work at its peak level of performance. Proper maintenance and periodic inspection are essential.

System Management

One of the best methods to maximize water efficiency is simply to perform the seasonal adjustments on your controller. Knowledge of your irrigation system's features is vital to ensuring it works at its most efficient. Your irrigation contractor should help to familiarize you with the products which have been chosen for your system. The bottom line is simple: new technology is wonderful, but it must be used as part of a comprehensive solution in order to be really effective.

An Inviting Glow In Your Landscape

Landscape lighting brings depth and color to trees and shrubs and lights your way along pathways and walks. It also shows off your home, walls, and other structures. It's no wonder that lighting is becoming very popular with homeowners.

Lighting can be added for safety and security; for example, along pathways to reduce injuries or to light areas where an intruder could hide.

And, what could make your landscape more inviting for evening entertaining than soft, warm light illuminating your sitting areas and highlighting your plant material?

Even during our dark Winter evenings, you can enjoy the beauty of your landscape from inside your house. Well-placed lamps open up your trees and plants in ways you probably never imagined. Lamps are also available with lightly colored filters, just like professional theater lights.

Landscape lighting systems have come a long way in the past 10 years. Modern lighting systems use minimal power and provide bright white light due to halogen and modern lamps. Today's systems provide a high level of safety due to better insulation, water proofing, and low-voltage power sources.

When installing outdoor lighting, make sure to consider the lamp housing's construction and what it is made of. Unlike indoor lamps, outdoor lamps are exposed to heat, cold, wind, rain, and dirt. They must be able to last for years. And don't forget: it must be easy to replace the bulb.

You can put in your own lighting system using kits. Or, call ProGrass to do it for you. ProGrass can provide you with a free lighting demonstration in your own landscape. We can also design and install an effective system customized to your needs. Whatever way you choose, your landscape will never look the same.

Plant Focus

Corylus avellana 'Contorta'
Contorted Filbert or Harry Lauder's Walking Stick

• Deciduous shrub/tree, 8-10 ft. Stems curled and twisted. Leaves also twisted.
• Sun to part shade.

This plant was discovered in 1863 in a hedgerow in England. The Harry Lauder, of one of the common names, refers to Sir Harry Lauder (1870-1950), a Scottish entertainer who sported a trademark crooked walking stick. Information from the Oregon State University Dept. of Horticulture.