1. Get rid of the weeds! The first step to renovating a lawn is to control the weeds. If hand weeding is not an option, use one of the selective broadleaf herbicides such as Bonide Weed Beater, Weed Beater Plus, or Weed Beater Ultra, or Bayer Advanced All-In-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer. Always read and follow the label directions! 
2. Reduce the competition from the existing grass. Once the weeds are gone, begin the renovation by mowing the lawn as low as possible and rake up all the clippings and other debris.
3. Dethatch if necessary. If the thatch layer is greater than 1/2 inch, it should be removed. Rent a dethatcher or a power rake to make the job easier.
4. Aerate the soil. When the soil is compacted, grass doesn't grow well because nutrients, air, and water cannot penetrate the soil and get to the roots. Compacted soils should be loosened by core aeration. This should always be done when the grass is actively growing so the roots have time to recover. A core aerating machine can be rented for the job.
5. Amend the soil. It is always a good idea to have your soil tested so you know what soil nutrients are needed and whether you need to add lime. Sometimes a starter fertilizer is recommended for new plantings. Organic fertilizers such as Espoma Organic Lawn Food release nutrients slowly and feed the lawn over a longer period of time. These fertilizers will not burn the grass or leach into the groundwater. Organic fertilizers only need to be applied two or three times a year; in the spring and fall, and sometimes a revitalizer in the summer.
6. Choose high quality grass seed. Quality seed will germinate better and fill in more quickly. Be sure to choose a grass seed mixture that will tolerate the conditions in your yard - sun or shade.
7. Seeding. Small areas can be seeded by hand but larger areas can be seeded using a drop spreader. Spread half the seed in one direction and spread the other half at right angles to the first. This will provide a more uniform coverage of the seed.
8. Mulch. It is important to keep the seed bed moist until the grass is established. Mulching with a thin layer of straw will help maintain even moisture levels.
9. Keep the seed bed watered. Water slowly and gently to avoid runoff and washing of the seed. Keep the seed bed constantly moist throughout the germination period.

The Garden in Fall 

If you think that just because it's September, the "flower show" is over, think again! You won't believe how many plants are still looking great and how much color there still is in the garden. Plan for fall color through foliage, flowers, and berries. Use ornamental grasses and hardy mums to give a real feeling of fall. Mark will introduce you to some other wonderful fall blooming perennials and add a little color to your life this fall!  Free lecture

Saturday, September 27 at 1:30 pm 

Techniques of Plant Propagation 

A wonderful fall hands-on workshop! Plant propagation is an exciting, self-satisfying, and money saving activity! Learn how to landscape your property using your own plants. Mark will teach you the best methods for many different plants including techniques of dividing, taking cuttings, layering, and seeding. Take home loads of plant divisions! A propagating demonstration tour is included.
  
Please pre-register by calling 800-575-5538;
       $30 fee, two for $50