In a time when people are increasingly mindful of the environment, and economic considerations are more important than ever, the materials we use for landscaping are becoming more and more important. One choice that’s gaining popularity for being both environmentally friendly and easy on the budget is to go for locally grown and sourced sod. It’s not just a win for the environment; it’s a boost for the local economy as well.
Transportation of goods over long distances contributes significantly to carbon emissions. Choosing locally grown sod drastically reduces the carbon footprint associated with its delivery. When you purchase sod grown nearby, not only is your sod fresher, it doesn’t have to travel thousands of miles to reach your property. This reduction in transportation emissions helps combat climate change and ensures cleaner air for our community.
Local sod doesn’t just make your lawn beautiful; it also does wonders for our local wildlife. The native grasses and plants that come with locally sourced sod, like the Kentucky Bluegrasses blended with Fescue we supply at Lavington Turf Farm, become essential homes and food sources for neighborhood critters, like birds and insects. So, when you choose local sod, you’re helping to protect the natural balance of our local ecosystems.
Locally grown sod is typically well-suited to our region’s climate and soil conditions. This means it requires less water to thrive compared to sod varieties from distant locales. Less water usage translates to lower utility bills for homeowners and reduces the strain on local water resources, which is especially crucial in areas with water drought issues. Typically, to maintain your sod in the Okanagan region, you’d only need to give it about 1 inch of water each week. This approach encourages your grass to develop deep roots, which helps it withstand dry spells. Be sure to check with your local turf farm for their recommended watering guidelines.
Local sod is more than just grass; it’s a source of livelihood for many. Every local sod farm creates jobs, from the hardworking farmers and cultivators to the dedicated delivery drivers. The money you spend stays within the region, benefiting everyone, from farmers to retailers.
Locally grown sod is more likely to thrive in your specific climate and soil conditions. It’s acclimated to the local weather patterns, which means it has a higher chance of flourishing once installed. This can reduce the need for costly replacements, yard maintenance, and repairs, ultimately saving you money.
Behind every successful garden is a knowledgeable gardener, and behind every lush lawn of local sod is a local sod farmer. These experts possess in-depth knowledge of our region’s specific needs, ensuring that you receive not only quality sod but also tailored advice and guidance. Having your local sod farmer in your backyard allows you to have access to them if and when any problems may arise with your lawn.
Opting for locally grown and sourced sod isn’t just a choice; it’s a commitment to a greener and more prosperous future. This sustainable practice reduces our carbon footprint, nurtures biodiversity, and conserves water, all while strengthening our local community through job creation and economic growth.
We are excited to serve as your reliable supplier of local sod in both the Okanagan area and neighboring regions. Here at Lavington Turf, our focus extends beyond providing high-quality, locally-cultivated sod. We are committed to promoting sustainability and contributing to the growth of the community.
Whether you live in the Okanagan, Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Salmon Arm, Sorrento, or any of the surrounding areas within our proud service range – which includes Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Kootenays, Caribou, and all the way to the USA Border – you can count on us to meet your needs!
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Don’t let pesky weeds ruin the beauty of your yard. Since many weeds grow low and can go unnoticed by mowers, it’s important to know how to effectively manage them. In this blog, we will explore common weeds that appear with turf, methods to prevent and remove them, and tips for maintaining a weed-free yard. If you are looking to spruce up your yard’s landscaping, we’ve got you covered with all the tips and tricks to maintain a healthy, green, and weed-free lawn.
One of the first steps in effective weed management is being able to identify the culprits. Here are three common weeds that often make an unwelcome appearance in turf:
1. Dandelions: Dandelions are recognizable by their bright yellow flowers and fluffy seed heads. They spread quickly and can take over large areas of your lawn if left unchecked.
2. Clover: Clover is characterized by its three-leaf clusters and is often found in patches within the turf. While some homeowners may appreciate its appearance, others consider it a weed that needs to be controlled.
3. Crabgrass: Crabgrass is an annual weed that thrives in thin or bare spots on the lawn. It has wide, flat blades and can quickly overrun the surrounding turf if not dealt with promptly.
To create a weed-resistant environment, it is essential to implement preventive measures:
•Do not over-fertilize: While giving your grass a nutrient boost is important, going overboard with fertilization can actually encourage weed growth. Follow recommended guidelines for your local area and consider the specific needs of your grass type and the local conditions.
•Avoid over-watering: Too much water not only weakens your grass but also creates the perfect breeding ground for weeds. Water deeply but less frequently to promote deep root growth in your grass and deny those pesky weeds the moisture they crave.
When those weeds do manage to pop up, it’s time to take action! Here are some effective methods to bid them farewell:
1. Hand pulling: For smaller infestations, grab those gloves and start pulling weeds by hand. Make sure you get the entire root system out to prevent regrowth.
2. Herbicides: Selective herbicides come to the rescue when you need to target specific weeds while leaving your turf unharmed. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully, and if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to consult a professional for herbicide selection and application.
3. Natural remedies: If you prefer a more eco-friendly approach, you can try using vinegar or boiling water to zap those weeds. Keep in mind that these natural alternatives may not be as effective on larger or perennial weeds, but they work well for spot treatments.
4. Using weed-pulling tools: Streamline the process of weed removal with convenient tools that make the task a breeze. The weed puller/grabber is a handy tool equipped with jaws designed to firmly grip the weed at its base. With a simple squeeze and pull, you can effortlessly extract the weed without breaking a sweat. Another useful tool is the weed popper, featuring a leverage system that provides the necessary force to pop out weeds, roots, and all. This ensures a clean removal, preventing regrowth and leaving your garden looking neat and tidy.
You’ve conquered the weeds, but how do you keep them at bay? Firstly, regular mowing is crucial; keeping your grass at the recommended height for your turf type helps shade out weed seeds and prevent them from germinating. Secondly, proper fertilization is important. Ensure your lawn receives the necessary nutrients while avoiding fertilizers that may promote weed growth. Lastly, maintain a consistent watering schedule. Providing adequate moisture to your lawn while avoiding excessive watering helps keep weeds at bay.
By staying proactive with lawn maintenance, you can prevent weed growth and enjoy vibrant, weed-free turf. Whether you are like us and own an Okanagan sod farm, or are focused on yard maintenance and want your lawn to look top-notch, the practices outlined in this guide will help you effectively manage and eliminate those pesky weeds. So go ahead, show off your beautiful, healthy, and weed-free lawn all year round! Contact us directly by phone at (1-250-549-2967) with any questions about our turf and your lawn care needs or fill out our contact form on our website. You can learn more about us here too.
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Having pets brings us happiness, but it’s no secret that they can wreak havoc on our lawns. If you’re a proud pet owner seeking a gorgeous and pet-friendly lawn, consider turf as your saving grace. In this blog, we’ll delve into the benefits of turf for pet owners and share some valuable tips on installing and maintaining it while keeping your furry friends in mind.
When it comes to pet-friendly lawns, turf offers several advantages. Firstly, it offers easy installation and requires low maintenance compared to natural grass. With turf, you can say goodbye to constant mowing, watering, and fertilizing. It saves you time and effort, allowing you to spend more quality time with your pets.
Turf is also durable and designed to withstand the playful activities of your pets. Whether they’re running, chasing, or rolling around, the turf can handle it without getting easily damaged. This durability ensures that your lawn remains intact, providing a safe and enjoyable space for your furry friends.
Choosing top-quality turf from Lavington Turf Farms, or another local farm; like Kamloops Turf Farms, Vernon Turf, and other reputable providers is also environmentally-friendly. Turf reduces the need for harmful pesticides and fertilizers, creating a healthier environment for both your pets and the ecosystem. With high quality turf, you can be assured that your pets can roam and play on a surface that is free from toxic chemicals.
When installing turf with your furry friends in mind, there are a few important factors to consider. You must make sure to prepare the area adequately. This includes having proper base layers, including organic top soil, beneath the turf, which play a crucial role in managing pet waste and promoting absorption. By doing so, you can keep your lawn cleaner and more hygienic for both you and your pets.
In order to give the turf the best chance to establish roots and avoid any potential damage, it’s important to keep your pets away from the turf / sod until you start to notice visible growth. This initial period is crucial for the turf to thrive and become more resilient to the playful activities of your pets. It may require some patience on your part, but it will ultimately lead to a healthier and more durable lawn for everyone to enjoy.
Maintaining a pet-friendly lawn requires some regular upkeep, but it’s definitely worth the effort. One of the most important tasks is cleaning up after your pet. Make it a priority to promptly remove any pet waste to keep your lawn clean and free from unpleasant odors. This will also prevent staining and discoloration of the turf. Additionally, giving the area a regular rinse with water will help maintain its cleanliness and freshness.
Another aspect to consider is discouraging your pets from digging in the turf. You can achieve this through positive reinforcement and training techniques. Redirect their digging behaviors to designated areas like a sandbox or a specific spot in the yard where they can freely indulge in their natural instincts. This way, you can preserve the integrity of the turf while still allowing your pets to satisfy their digging urges.
Lastly, don’t forget to regularly pick up your pets’ toys from the turf. Leaving toys scattered on the lawn can negatively impact both the aesthetics and overall health of the turf. By keeping the lawn clear of toys, you ensure proper maintenance and prolong the longevity of your pet-friendly turf. It’s all about creating a clean, beautiful, and enjoyable space for both you and your furry companions to relish.
In conclusion, for pet owners seeking a durable and low-maintenance lawn, turf from trusted providers like Lavington Turf Farms can be an excellent solution. By following the tips for pet lawn maintenance and effective yard maintenance techniques, you can create a beautiful and pet-friendly yard that brings joy to both you and your furry companions. With proper installation and regular care, your pet-friendly lawn will thrive, providing a lush and enjoyable outdoor space for everyone to enjoy. Contact us at Lavington Turf Farms today for a quote or to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members. Let’s create a lawn that both you and your beloved pets will love!
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When it comes to installing a new lawn or replacing an old one, you may wonder whether to install sod or plant seed. While both choices have their own set of pros and cons, sod is frequently the preferable option for many. Below, we will discuss the benefits of using sod, particularly from an Okanagan turf farm, and compare it to seed for different lawn installation or replacement projects. Let’s take a look at the differences between sod and grass seed to help you determine which will work best for your space.
Before making your choice between sod and seed, consider the nature and scope of the project. If you want an instant lawn, then sod will be your best decision because it can be installed immediately and at most times of the year. Seed may be a better option if you are willing to wait 2 to 3 months for it to fully establish. Sod can withstand heavy use so it is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. On the other hand, seed may be more practical if you only need to cover a small area or want to create a custom blend of grass varieties.
While sod may be the more expensive option upfront, it’s a smart investment in the long run because it requires less upkeep. Seed, on the other hand, needs frequent watering and attention, which can add up in terms of both time and money. By choosing sod, you’ll save on lawn maintenance equipment and enjoy a beautiful, fully-grown lawn right away, whereas seed can take a significant amount of time to grow. Overall, sod provides a low-maintenance and aesthetically pleasing solution that you can enjoy right away.
Choosing the correct variety of grass for your lawn is crucial and should depend on the climate and soil type of your region. Opting for top-quality sod from a local turf farm (such as sod in Kelowna, sod Penticton, or sod vernon ) can be an excellent choice because it is cultivated specifically for the local climate and soil. This local sod, is drought-tolerant and can endure prolonged dry spells with minimal need for watering or upkeep. It consists of grass species with robust, deep root systems that can tap into nutrients and water deep below the surface. This, in turn, can provide immediate erosion control and soil stabilization.
Proper preparation of the soil is the first step to a successful lawn. Start by clearing out any grass, weeds, or other debris from the area. After that, apply and spread an adequate amount of high-quality organic topsoil, resulting in a depth of 3 – 3.5 inches. Once you’ve done that, make sure to level the soil and install any irrigation lines before laying down the sod. Our final key tip is ensuring you have the correct amount of sod for your project scope. This means calculating the sod required by measuring the length and width of the area in feet.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when installing sod is not properly preparing the soil. As we stated above, it’s important to remove all existing grass and weeds before laying down the sod, or else you might encounter issues with weed growth and poor grass health. Additionally, proper watering is essential to help the roots establish and avoid drying out. Finally, try to avoid installing sod during extreme weather conditions, such as very hot or very rainy weather. Doing so can have negative impacts on the growth and overall health of your sod. We have a great blog on thet best time of the year to lay your sod here.
To sum it up, if you’re looking for a hassle-free and instantly beautiful lawn, sod from an Okanagan turf farm, such as Lavington Turf Farm, is definitely worth considering. Although seed might seem like a cheaper alternative, sod offers a range of advantages. But, it’s important to do your research and pick the right type of grass for your region, and to prepare your soil properly before laying down the sod. If you need help with making a decision between seed or sod, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
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Whether you’re planning to install a new lawn or revamp an existing one, the question of whether to use real grass turf or artificial turf is bound to come up. Both options have their pros and cons, making it difficult for homeowners and lawn maintenance professionals alike to decide which one suits their needs best. While natural grass has been the go-to choice for centuries, synthetic turf has gained popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between real turf grass and artificial turf, weigh their advantages and disadvantages, and help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your project.
Real turfed grass is a popular choice for many homeowners because of its many benefits, one being its natural appearance. Home marketing companies have statistically proven that well-maintained turfed and landscaped yards sell quicker and obtain higher sales than those that don’t.
But that’s not all! Turf is an excellent air filter, removing dust and dirt from the atmosphere. Plus, a 2,500 sq ft lawn releases enough oxygen for a family of four to breathe for a whole day! Turf also helps filter pollutants from runoff, controls erosion, and reduce traffic noise.
Real turf has few drawbacks. It requires maintenance as it needs regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing to keep it healthy and looking good. Real turf is susceptible to weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold temperatures which can cause damage or even kill the grass if not taken care of properly. Keeping on a timely maintenance schedule can help with these issues. Another tip to help; If you’re located in Kelowna, Kamloops, or Vernon, you can consider getting your turf from a Kelowna turf farm, Turf farms Kamloops/Vernon, or here at Lavington Turf Farm. Turfed grass from a local farm is likely to be adapted to the local climate and may require less maintenance than grass that has been shipped from other regions. Additionally, landscaping experts from these areas can offer you guidance on how to properly maintain your lawn in the region’s climate.
Artificial turf has gained popularity as an alternative to natural grass due to its low maintenance requirements. It doesn’t need watering, mowing, or fertilizing like real grass does. This can save both time and money for homeowners and businesses alike. However, one major drawback of artificial turf is that it doesn’t react well to heat. The synthetic material absorbs the sun’s rays and can become dangerously hot, making it uncomfortable for people and pets to walk on during the summer months. Speaking of pets, Cleaning your pet’s urine or feces can become a challenging task, often getting stuck to the material, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that may pose a risk for your children or grandchildren to play on. Contrary to popular belief, artificial turf requires some maintenance, and it is not entirely weed-free. Many people believe that synthetic grass eliminates the need to deal with weeds, but that is a misconception. Weeds can still grow through the turf’s cracks and seams and around the edges if given the opportunity. Another concern with artificial turf is that it is non-biodegradable, meaning that once it reaches the end of its lifespan (usually around 10-15 years), it will sit in landfills indefinitely instead of decomposing like natural materials would.
When it comes to choosing between real turf and artificial turf for your lawn, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. However, if you prioritize a natural look and environmentally friendly option, then real turf is the way to go. Not only does it provide numerous benefits such as air purification and water filtration but it also adds value to your property in the long run. So why not get started with real turf today and enjoy all that a beautiful green lawn has to offer?
If you’re interested in real turf, or have questions, you can contact us directly over the phone at (1-250-549-2967) or you can fill out our contact form on our website here, and our staff can help assist you with all your needs. We provide availability for pick up or delivery that services the Okanagan (including Vernon, Kelowna, Penticton, Osoyoos, Sorrento, Salmon Arm), Thompson Okanagan (Kamloops) BC Interior, and all the way to the US border. You can learn more about us here too.
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The sense of pride you feel towards your home extends beyond its walls and encompasses your lawn, which serves as a reflection of your hard work and dedication to one of your largest investments. Regardless of whether you have inherited an underwhelming lawn or are beginning with a blank slate after removing the previous one, there is no better opportunity to take control and bring your lawn up to par. Investing in sod grass for your landscaping projects this spring can be a great way to enhance the overall appearance and value of your property.
One significant advantage of sod is its ability to prevent soil erosion, as the dense root system keeps the soil in place during heavy rainfall. Additionally, sod can increase property value by providing an attractive, well-maintained lawn that improves curb appeal. Sod is great for the environment too, it reduces runoff by absorbing and filtering rainwater.
The dense root system reduces the amount of surface water that runs off into nearby storm drains, streams, or rivers. The water that does get through is filtered through the sod’s tight roots, trapping pollutants and preventing them from entering the water supply. Sod contributes to air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, creating a healthier atmosphere. Lastly, a well-maintained yard with sod creates a space for outdoor activities and relaxation, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
When looking for sod we have to consider the climate. As we know, in the Okanagan area ( Kelowna, Vernon, Kamloops ), we receive plenty of sun exposure and dry air, so we must consider choosing a sod variety that can thrive in our region with little shade. We have the perfect solution at Lavington turf farms called the #1 Kentucky Bluegrasses blended with Fescue that is the right blend for our arid dry summers yet hardy enough to withstand cold winters.
Finally, turf sod needs good soil to grow properly, so it’s important to choose a variety that is compatible with your soil type. It is also essential to properly prepare the soil before laying the sod, by removing any debris and adding any irrigation you may want. With proper care, your sod can create a lush and beautiful lawn.
Proper installation and lawn maintenance of sod are essential for its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Site preparation involves clearing the area of grass, weeds, and debris and amending the soil as needed. Watering thoroughly and frequently for the first few weeks is crucial for root development. Regular fertilization, following the recommended schedule for your sod variety, keeps your lawn healthy and green. Begin mowing when turf roots are difficult to separate from the soil, mowing high the first time bringing it down to the desired height gradually. Following these lawn maintenance guidelines allows you to enjoy a beautiful and lush lawn for many years.
Consider sod grass for your lawn this spring to enhance your property’s landscaping and enjoy benefits such as preventing soil erosion and increasing property value. At Lavington Turf Farms, we provide top-quality sod and turf to meet all your landscaping needs.
We serve Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Salmon Arm, Sorrento, Revelstoke, Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Kootenays, and Caribou with fast delivery and pick-up options at our sod farm. Elevate your property’s landscaping with our top-notch sod from our sod farm today. To receive further information or request a no-obligation quote, please visit this page on our website.
Contact us directly by phone at (1-250-549-2967) with any questions about our soil and your lawn care needs or fill out our contact form on our website. You can learn more about us here too.
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Nothing brings down the look of a beautiful lawn quite like dead patches of grass. Even with the best tended lawn, you might still have dead patches of grass appear from time to time. That being said, the reason for them might not always be obvious. The most common reasons for dead grass patches are: Pets, weeds, high foot traffic areas, drought stress, soil concerns, fungal diseases, fertilizer burn and improper watering.
Got some pesky dead spots you would love to restore? In this blog we walk you through our top tips on how to repair those pesky patches, and how best to treat your lawn to achieve that beautiful lush, green lawn once more.
Let’s get started!
The dead spots in your lawn will require reseeding to produce new growth. However, before immediately dropping seeds within a dead spot, first you will want to remove the dead grass.
Using a garden rake or hand rake, scrape the dead grass zone and remove the first layer of thatch. That’s the base layer above the soil. With the first layer removed, it’s also ideal to pull any invasive weeds, and rake the soil below to loosen it for reseeding. With that all ready, you have prepared your spot for new growth!
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and spread new seeds over the new area. It’s important to not overseed during this step.
Seeds will also germinate best in morning and evening temperatures, so avoid reseeding in the middle of the day during summer time. Finally, gently water your spot! And we do really mean gently, as the seeds need the best possible start to grow effectively. Give it a generous amount of water, and continue to do so until germination occurs. This is typically after two weeks of watering.
Now that you have your seedlings planted, it’s important to encourage growth and make sure your grass grows effectively. Mow your lawn only when the germinated lawn is at least 3 inches tall.
Keep up with consistent watering, and your lawn will grow in and back to normal in no time. It’s also important to monitor the location regularly, to ensure there are no fungal growth issues, improper watering spots or issues due to lack of fertilizer. To find more information on how to improve your lawn’s overall health, and keep it healthy throughout the summer, check out our previous blog here.
At Lavington Turf Farms, we understand the difficulty of maintaining a perfect lawn. We professionally install turf for your projects – contact us today if you need a quote for your project.
We are committed to helping our customers and are always here if you have questions. Our drought tolerant sod is of high quality to help ensure a healthy lawn all year round!
We proudly serve the following areas: Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Salmon Arm, Sorrento, Revelstoke, Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Kootenays, and Caribou, all the way to the USA Border.
For more information or a free quote for your project, please visit this page on our website.
There is nothing quite like lush green grass, and thanks to spring, it’s easy to achieve this. However, when spring transitions into summer, the weather conditions can be an absolute nightmare for your lawn. The good news is, you don’t have to slave over your lawn to keep it healthy. In fact, to a great extent, it’s not the amount of work you put into your lawn — it’s when and how you do it.
There are some fundamentals that are key in retaining the life in your grass. As well, keep it fresh and lush all season long. In this blog, you will find our top tips for keeping your beautiful grass green and healthy, and how caring for your grass can give you some great results!
If you live within the Okanagan, then you understand summer heat. And as much as your lawn requires sunshine to thrive, too much of it can dry out your lawn and cause any water to evaporate. A good rule of thumb is to water your lawn in the early morning or late evening. Your lawn will enjoy the break of sunlight. During this time your lawn has a chance to take in as much water as possible and absorb enough to stay hydrated throughout the day.
You might not have ever considered raising the height of your lawnmower, but believe it or not, it greatly helps your lawn during the summer months. Trimming and keeping the grass longer will help shield the roots from the damages of the sun. This in turn, prevents your roots from drying out. That being said, it’s ideal to mow your lawn every 2-3 weeks to keep it within its best conditions.
Running a soil test will let you know if you are missing any specific nutrients, and whether those nutrients are running low or high. Knowing your lawn’s current health means it’s easy to find a fertilizer with a nutrient ratio that fits your needs. Fall is an excellent time to fertilize your lawn with a slow-releasing fertilizer, as it is soaking up as much nutrients as possible to store for the winter months – resulting in fresh green grass for spring!
Keep an eye out – or take the time every week to do a walk through your backyard. If your lawn is filled with feet everyday, it doesn’t hurt to check in and see the damage from time to time. As quick as your lawn get’s green, it’s also quick to sprout weeds and develop dead spots. We always recommend getting to those weeds as early as possible. Whether that includes manually pulling them, or using a weeder. Dead spots are an indication of regrowth needed. Which means, reseeding appropriately. Dead spots included, it’s better to address lawn imperfections sooner rather than later when it becomes an even bigger problem.
Your lawn needs oxygen just as much as it needs water. The process allows for air, nutrients, and water to penetrate deeper into the soil and gain quicker access to the roots. Aerating your lawn also allows for better water absorption which prevents runoff. The easiest method to aerate your lawn would include the use of a garden fork, or hiring a machine in larger areas.
Whatever your goals are for this summer – rest assured knowing that the work you put into your lawn will provide lush, green grass as a result. Most importantly, as we mentioned earlier, it’s not always about the work you put in, it’s about when you do it.
At Lavington Turf Farms, we are committed to helping our customers and are always here if you have questions. We also offer drought tolerant sod of high quality to help ensure a healthy lawn all year round.
We proudly serve the following areas: Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Salmon Arm, Sorrento, Revelstoke, Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Kootenays, and Caribou, all the way to the USA Border.
For more information or a free quote for your project, please visit this page on our website.
Within the Okanagan, home owners have the luxury of enjoying mixed temperatures all season, with the added benefit of cold winter months and hot summer months. With that being said, the unreasonably hot and dry summers take its toll on plant life – giving long hot days, with little to no rain. As well, the long winter months mean your grass manages with heavy snow falls, and below freezing temperatures. However, the brown and dry grass homeowners are left with is completely normal and should have no cause for concern. In fact, your grass isn’t dead, it’s simply dormant!
It’s quite a common question at Lavington Turf Farms; We have customers who aren’t used to the Okanagan summers or winters, and are more used to green grass year round. In this blog, we will take you through grass dormancy; the difference between dead or dormant grass, how your lawn will be affected, and tips we gathered from years within the industry to care for dormant sod.
That being said, let’s get started!
The sight of brown grass can be confusing for homeowners. It’s important to know what caused the discoloration and in the best case scenario – if your grass is still alive. There are a few simple differences in dead and dormant grass, and if the grass is dormant, you will be completely capable of having lush green grass again.
The simplest difference would be testing your lawn by pulling on a small section of brown grass to test resistance. Simply put, if you have no resistance and the grass pulls out easy – it’s dead. Another visual difference in dead and dormant grass, is that typically, dormant grass will be consistent. By this we mean, if your whole lawn is brown in colour it’s most likely dormant.
Of course, if there are small patches of brown grass inconsistent with the rest of the lawn, then those areas are most likely dead.
Remember to act consistent and attentive with watering, and inquire to a professional if you need help deciphering between dead or dormant grass.
Now that you know your grass is dormant, let’s talk about how your grass is revived out of dormancy. As mentioned earlier, when your grass is yellow or brown in colour and looks as if dead, there is actually a part of the root that is still intact; the crown. This inner piece remains alive and will regain life again once reactivated by moisture. When this happens, the grass will begin to transition into green lush grass again. Of course, this is greatly benefited if you have consistent waterings and treat your dormant grass with care.
Dormant grass is in a vulnerable state, so limiting the traffic on your grass while it recovers is ideal for your grass to bounce back properly. Besides damage caused from traffic, your vulnerable lawn is susceptible to weeds when dormant. Be sure to monitor your grass frequently during dormancy and trim weeds appropriately early in the spring season.
Did you know that it is possible to lay dormant sod in the off seasons? It’s actually beneficial to install dormant sod grass in the early winter months to prevent erosion and mud. If monitored and treated correctly, your sod will grow roots in the early spring months, and you will have the full benefits of a healthy green lawn. When laying dormant sod, it’s important to follow a proper watering schedule, and be alert for cold dry weather, which has a high chance of drying out the root of the sod.
Dormant sod does require less water than previously laid summer sod – but you should always be mindful of the conditions year round, and water accordingly, to ensure roots form for spring. Herbicides should also not be applied until spring months once the sod is rooted.
Now we hope you feel confident and comfortable knowing that your lawn can, and will go dormant during certain seasons throughout the year, but that should give you no reason to panic. Brown grass is common and not an issue – as long as you treat your dormant grass well, then the likelihood of having green lush grass for future spring and summer seasons will happen for you. If at any point you require help determining if your grass is dormant or dead, or if you need sod for new sections of your lawn, contact us for a quote today!
At Lavington Turf Farms, we are always here if you have any questions about your projects. We can customize our sod to fit your needs, and our drought tolerant turf will always fit the conditions.
We proudly serve the following areas: Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Salmon Arm, Sorrento, Revelstoke, Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Kootenays, and Caribou, all the way to the USA Border.
For more information or a free quote for your project, please visit this page on our website.
Laying sod is one quick way to ensure you achieve a beautiful and healthy lawn. However, it’s very important that you go about installing the sod properly to reap the full benefits of a new lawn. As a homeowner, It is best to install turf when you receive it, or store it in a shaded place until you can install it. This helps maintain the sod quality and prevents it from drying out and rotting before application.
We detailed in our previous blog – the important steps for preparing your project area. In this blog, we will continue the sod installation process and cover a few tips while also providing some advice when it comes to installing the sod.
In our previous blog, we highlighted some crucial tips on preparing your yard for new sod – you can find this blog here. For convenience however, we can break it down into the following topics: Removing weeds/clearing the area, preparing your soil, installing irrigation, and measuring your area. Preparing your project area is very important for the success of your sod – and ultimately, that just saves time, and allows you to enjoy the benefits of your yard sooner!
Once you have smoothed out the area, you can begin by unrolling the turf. It’s important to lay the turf along straight edges; such as starting from a driveway. Unroll the turf on the longest landscaping area – this is making sure that the sod is fully exposed to the soil beneath it, so it has the best chance of adapting to the soil.
Work with the pieces, laying edge to edge and flattening them as you go. Using a utility knife if necessary to cut pieces that are in uneven areas within your project area. Be sure to smooth out footprints in the dirt as you walk, and place the sod strategically so you avoid walking over it as you continue to place the remainder of the sod.
While you continue to lay your turf, ensure that the pieces lay flush against each other without any overlapping. You will want to prevent any gaps as well – so be observant that each piece is well aligned to one another. It’s also important to note that you will get better water retention if you lay sod horizontally, rather than vertically, if you have a sloped property. As mentioned before, it’s important to not walk on your placed sod as your weight can disrupt the placement and shift the sod to create gaps.
Once you have finished the placement, cutting and rearranging of the sod – it’s time to fully press it into the soil. The purpose of this is to achieve a tight connection between the sod and soil; this can be easily achieved with a lawn roller. After your rolling is complete, it’s best to limit the traffic on your newly laid sod to ensure it establishes well – this includes children and pets.
Did we make it clear you need to water your sod well? Of course you don’t want puddles forming on the newly laid sod, however, you’ll definitely want to water daily to encourage deep root growth. After the first week of active watering, you can slowly decrease the watering to every other day – of course, accounting for rainfall as well. Watering your newly laid sod actively is the real secret to achieving healthy and lush grass.
No matter the case, or size of your project this year – Lavington Turf Farms is here to help! We provide Okanagan drought tolerant turf & sod that’s customizable for your project – whatever that entails. But, if you find that your project is too large, we also professionally install turf for your project – contact us for a quote today, we are always happy to answer any questions!
We proudly serve the following areas: Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Salmon Arm, Sorrento, Revelstoke, Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Kootenays, and Caribou, all the way to the USA Border.
For more information or a free quote for your project, please visit this page on our website.
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