Peat moss is a natural growing medium with many applications, but it can be hard to know how to use it in your garden. But what exactly is peat moss? How does it differ from other types of soil or mulch?

This guide covers everything from the types of peat moss available to how much water each type holds. We’ll cover everything from planting trees and shrubs with peat moss as a potting medium or using it as alternative mulch material in vegetable gardens. You’ll also find out which kinds of plants grow best when grown directly in peat moss without any additional soil mixed into the mix. Let’s get started!

What Is Peat Moss?

Peat moss is a soil amendment that is harvested from peat bogs. Many of these peat bogs are found in wet areas of Canada. Peat bogs are formed over a long period as organic materials partially decompose.

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Although sometimes referred to as peat, peat moss and peat are not the same things. Peat moss is one of the products harvested from peat bogs. Other types of peat moss come from the partial decomposition of other organic materials. If you know how to make compost then you must know this type of peat moss. The moss in peat moss refers to sphagnum moss.

Where Does Peat Moss Come From?

Peat moss comes from your flower pot or garden from wetlands or bogs. It’s not decomposed material because the surface of the blogs doesn’t allow oxygen and air to filter underground. This makes the fibers of the sphagnum moss remain intact.

Types of Peat Moss

Sphagnum Peat Moss

The most commonly used type of peat moss is sphagnum peat moss. Sphagnum peat moss has a high ability to absorb moisture and holds ten times its dry weight in water. After it’s harvested and dried, sphagnum peat moss is light in color, making it retain 10-12 times its weight in water.

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Don’t confuse sphagnum peat moss with sphagnum moss, even if their names are similar. Sphagnum moss refers to the plant material harvested when still alive and growing above water. The end product is the light, fibrous material often used to decorate line wire baskets.

Black Peat Moss

This is an important type of peat because it has high nutrient content, making it useful in growing orchids because orchids like organic material in their soil. It’s also used for potted flowering plants and nurseries that produce bedding plants. It’s a little more acidic than sphagnum peat moss and holds more water.

Black peat is harvested differently than sphagnum peat moss in a way that preserves the living plant. It’s cut from Sphagnum bogs in Canada and is probably black because of its high carbon content. It requires more processing before it’s sold but has less dust and fewer contaminants than brown peat moss.

History of Peat Moss

Peat was dried and used as a source of fuel in some countries for centuries. This is because it’s rich in carbon dioxide, just like other fossil fuels. It was until the 1940s that peat had a place in horticulture. Today, it’s used as a soil amendment, soilless mix, seed starting, and mushroom casting.

vailability of Peat Moss

Peat mosses are commonly found in bogs and wetlands of the earth’s northern hemisphere. It’s sold in gardening stores, online, hardware stores, and even supermarkets.

Mining Peat Moss

Before peat moss becomes a useful gardening product, it must be harvested by digging the ground and recomposing the bog’s ecosystem. When it comes to mining peat moss, the process is as follows:

Dig a network of ditches along the peatland to drain the water. Second, remove the native vegetation to get the peat exposed. Third, level the harvest to prevent drainage of the surface runoff. Fourth, harrow the top layer to speed up the drying process of peats. Fifth, suck up the dry peat layer using a large vacuum harvester.

Lastly, the harvested peats will be transported to a processing firm for cleaning, drying, and screening into different labels and packaging.

Pros of Peat Moss

Sterile

Peat moss has a natural ability to kill weed seeds and insects. When peat moss is added to the soil, it leaves no chance for mosquitoes and larvae to grow in your garden. This attribute can be very important if you want to avoid diseases such as malaria.

Cleanliness

Most of the growing materials are not clean. However, that’s not the case with peat moss. If you drop some wet moss, pick it up, get it dried or sweep it up.

Moisture Retention

Peat moss is believed to retain water for longer than other composts. This means that you will need less watering of your plants during dry seasons.

Peat Moss Has Slightly Acidic pH

Peat moss has a pH of 4.9 to 6.5, slightly acidic. This makes it better for soil mix because the acidity helps break down other compounds in the soil. This also makes it a good corrector, especially with plants that cannot stand alkaline soil.

It’s Fully Organic

If you are looking for an organic material to improve the content of your soil, using peat moss is a good option. It comes from bogs and is fully natural. The best part is that it’s now harvested at its optimal stage, further adding that this is an organic ingredient. Also, quarrying and transportation do burn a lot of fossil fuels, so if it’s produced organically, it’s not harvested and delivered organically.

Peat Moss Doesn’t Compact

Even though peat moss absorbs water well, it doesn’t compact, unlike soil. Compaction makes it hard to create space for the water and air to pass through. But if you add peat moss to any compact material, you’ll have solved the compaction problem and made the growing mix drain better.

The Drawbacks of Peat Moss

Poor in Nutrients

Some growers consider peat moss to be nutrient-poor. It doesn’t contain much nitrogen, potassium, or phosphorus, but it does have calcium and magnesium, which are essential nutrients for the growth of cannabis plants. Unlike other organic materials such as manure compost, peat moss is very poor in nutrients.

Dryness Issue

Since peat moss is very dry, it’s not 100% suitable for soil. It can be combined with other organic materials to improve the water retention capacity of your growing medium. When starting seeds with peat moss alone, ensure they get enough moisture. It’s also good to mix it with soils and some other soilless media.

Non-Renewable Resource

Peat bogs are made up of wetland plants accumulating for thousands of years. They are only found in areas where the average annual temperature is lower than 64 degrees F (18C). Peat moss from North America or Canada comes from old-growth forests. In other words, it’s a non-renewable resource that has to be harvested. This is not the case for peat moss harvested in Ireland or Scotland. Their bogs are managed wetland areas that grow peat moss yearly, so they can be harvested without causing permanent damage.

Peat Moss is Expensive

Peat moss exceeds the price of comparable mediums such as coconut coir. If you use it in bulk and the price is an issue, a better alternative is compost.

How to Use Peat Moss in the Garden

Soil Amendment

Peat moss is available in several grades, with different particle sizes. The larger the particles are, the more expensive it is. Use peat moss as a soil amendment to lighten heavy soils and increase water retention. For clay and heavy soils that get compact easily, it softens the soil structure and improves the drainage.

Peat moss helps retain moisture and nutrients for plant roots for sandy soil. If you intend to use it as a soil amendment, you should know that it changes soil pH levels. Ensure you measure and watch out if the pH level drifts too much by testing the soil pH

Hydroponic Growing

Peat moss is used in hydroponic systems because it creates a soil and nutrient solution barrier. This layer increases the stability of the system, keeping the plant roots away from harmful products that are designed to kill them.

People using it use it with other growing media like perlite and vermiculite to balance the moisture and aeration. When using peat moss for pure hydroponic growing, you should know some facts about it’s not appropriate.

Because it’s an organic matter, if provided with plenty of oxygen and nitrogen, it will start to decompose, making the material compress around plant roots and choke off your plants. So, better mix it with other materials.

Seed Starting

Peat moss is often used as a base layer to germinate and grow plants like vegetables and flowers. It provides aeration to the root zone, and it’s very easy to use for newcomers in hydroponics. When using peat moss for seed starting, you also need special trays with drain holes on the bottom because if you don’t, the peat moss will expand and block the water flow out of your seedling flat.

For this purpose, use the peat moss alone or in a mixture with some soils. You can also remove the hassle by getting the peat pellets sold on the market. Many people also prefer a soilless mix of peat moss, perlite, coconut coir, and others in different amounts. This prevents diseases, fungi, bacteria, weed seeds, and other bad things commonly found in the soil.

Peat Moss for Plant Transplants

Using peat moss granules is also the best way to transplant young trees and big plants. It can be easily handled since it is lightweight; you can use it with other components like the potting mix but make sure not to include any fertilizers or pesticides.

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It provides nooks and crannies where new, tender roots can grow. Peat moss also keeps humidity high, essential when plants have a new home. It also corrects the acidity of the soil and breaks down the consistency and texture of the soil, especially if it’s clay soil.

Growing Acid-Loving Plants

Peat moss is also used to grow plants that prefer soil with low pHs, such as rhododendrons, gardenias, heathers, tomatoes, Pieris, azaleas, and camellias. These plants need a peat moss mixture for their acidic soil. When combined with the correct potting mix, these plants enjoy having an environment where they can take up essential nutrients from the soil and conserve water.

Peat Moss Alternatives

Compost

Compost can be used as peat moss alternatives. These are usually less expensive but do not have the pH balancing effects of peat moss, therefore it should be used in conjunction with other ingredients to create the correct balance for acid-loving plants.

Compost is made from decayed organic materials like rotted plants, leaves, vegetable scraps, and animal manures. It has a lot of commonalities with compost peat, like excellent water holding capacity and great material for soil amendment.

Compost is cheaper than peat moss and fully sustainable in that you can easily make your own. On the other hand, compost won’t last long like peat moss, and you’ll have to add compost regularly. And lastly, compost will compact faster and easier than peat moss, but to have a comparable effect, you can add sand, shells, and eggshells to the soil to improve its texture.

Perlite

Perlite is a volcanic rock heated and expanded with steam to produce a fine white, shiny-type growing medium, which lets good drainage and aeration of the roots. It is also widely used as an additive for potting soil or seed starting mixes as it helps increase the porosity of the root environment.

It provides an excellent oxygen supply to plant roots and will not compact under heavyweight. Perlite is a good natural drainage layer for the bottom of your containers, and it will also help prevent any root rot problems that can occur from sitting water in the bottom of the container.

Coco Coir or Coco Fiber

Coco coir is the partially processed fiber of the coconut husk. It’s sold compressed into bricks or blocks or in a loose form that can be expanded by adding water. Coco produces excellent drainage and aeration qualities with good retention properties.

Coco provides an ideal air to water ratio – twice as much air space compared to water-holding capacity. Coco coir is a sustainable resource that has been used for centuries to protect the health of natural shorelines and reefs. It’s highly resistant to insect, microbial, and mold attacks, making it perfect as a growing medium for both hydroponics and soil applications.

Vermiculite

Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral heated to expand it into wormlike particles that absorb moisture and provide aeration. Vermiculite provides the nutritional requirements of plants while allowing for excellent drainage and aeration qualities.

Organic Matter

Organic matter is what makes the nutrients in your soil available to plants. It increases the number of good, healthy microorganisms in your soil by providing them with food and habitat. Organic matter also absorbs water during irrigation, reducing runoff.

What’s more, organic matter improves porosity in your soil by opening tiny spaces between soil particles for air and water, giving your plants room to grow.

Sand as Peat Moss Alternative

Sand has very coarse particles that do not release nutrients to plants easily. It does not change the pH of your soil, but it also doesn’t hold nutrients well, so adding sand on top of a peat moss/vermiculite mix is not ideal. Sand may be preferable if you are planting trees or other plants that don’t need consistent nutrients.

FAQs on Peat Moss

What is wrong with using peat moss?

Peat moss is not a natural substance. It is the partially decayed remains of plants that have been harvested from peat bogs and mires, an ecosystem formed by the incomplete decomposition of organic matter in wetlands. Peat bogs are fragile habitats that take thousands of years to form.

When should you use peat moss in your garden?

You should use peat moss as a soil amendment or potting mix, especially when growing fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, blueberries, and camellias which are acid-loving plants.

Final Thought on Peat Moss

There you have it. Peat moss is harvested from bogs or mires and is used in planting or potting soil mixes for acid-loving plants. Peat moss is not a natural garden soil ingredient, but it will help your garden grow lovely flowers and delicious foods.

 

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Many people live in cluttered homes which end up complicating their life as well. It’s not that they don’t know how to declutter your room but the process itself is very complicated. 

Well, if you could focus on the things in your home that give you joy, then everything else would fall into place. Marie Kondo has developed a method that makes this easy and simple, so you can get rid of clutter fast without having to sort through every item in your house one by one. It’s called the KonMari Method because she says we should only keep items that spark joy.

Here’s everything you need to know about the KonMari method.

What is the Konmari Method?

KonMari, also known as KonMarie or Marie Kondo, is a tidying expert in Japan. She has written several bestselling books on the process she uses to transform individuals and families. Created by Marie Kondo, professional home organizer and author of the bestselling book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, the Konmari method emphasizes removing clutter from your home and surrounding yourself with things that spark joy.

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In other words, the konmari method is a simple but effective tidying method that ensures you’ll never relapse to clutter again. It uses unique selection criteria by choosing what sparks joy. Through this tidying process, you can reset your life and spend the rest of your life surrounded by the people and things you love most.

After the release of the Netflix TV show Tidying Up with Marie Kondo in 2019, many people globally have been using Marie Kondo’s tips to declutter their homes and stay organized.

How Does the KonMari Method Work?

KonMari has six basic rules that can help you declutter, get organized and create a home filled with items that make you happy. Here’s how the KonMari method rules work:

Commit Yourself to Tidy Up

The KonMari method is not a quick fix for a messy room. Instead, it’s a chance to reset your entire life, but only if you commit to following its principles. The first rule of tidying is setting your intention to seriously tidy up and resolving to put in the time and effort required. 

When approaching your tidying festival with a clear vision and a can-do attitude, you’ll find the energy and motivation you need to tidy all your belongings in one go. The effort will be worth it in the end, and you’ll not only experience the joy of living with objects that you love, but you’ll also be on the path of establishing your ideal lifestyle.

Marie Kondo’s theory is the more you can get rid of, the easier it will be to tidy up and remain organized. So, don’t get discouraged if the process takes longer than a day.

Imagine Your Ideal Lifestyle

Before you start, imagine your ideal lifestyle and identify the objects that make it a reality. If this is your first time tidying up, you might not be able to picture what your perfect life looks like. But it’s never too late to change and improve after all.

Marie Kondo’s tidying process isn’t about decluttering your house or making it look neat on the spur of the moment for visitors. It’s all about tidying up in a way that will spark joy in your life and change it forever. 

Consider what kind of a house you want to live in and how you want to live in it. Make sure you describe your ideal lifestyle. You can draw and sketch out what it looks like if you like. You can also describe in a notebook or cut out photos from magazines.

When you imagine your ideal lifestyle, you’re clarifying why you want to tidy and envision your best life. The tidying process represents a turning point, so make sure you consider the ideal lifestyle you inspire.

Finish Discarding First

Once you know what your ideal lifestyle is, you’ll be able to decide which items have value in your home and fill a purpose for that lifestyle. Considering each item and sorting them to keep and discard piles allows you to create more space for the organization and storage solutions that come later in the Konmari method.

Discarding items is not the point of the Konmari method, but it’s important because it provides the opportunity to determine the items that will help you live your life as you envision it as well as those items that no longer fit into your lifestyle. After you’ve discarded, you can turn your full energy and attention to what sparks joy.

Sort by Category, Not Location

The Konmari method advises sorting by category rather than the room. This allows you to work on one type of item at a time and ensures that each category is treated with equal importance. In other words, you’ll have a hard time getting motivated to finish if all of your clothes are in one room and the books are in another.

If you’re cleaning your home room by room, you’re most likely rearranging items and tossing out only a few things since it doesn’t feel like a ton of clutter for that room. Tidy by categories such as clothes, books, papers, miscellaneous items and sentimental items. 

This way, you’ll be on the right track to success. If you find yourself doing this, try to give each category its own dedicated space and do your best not to keep related items together. The Konmari method prefers that you spread out categories throughout your entire home.

Follow the Right Order of Tidy

This is probably the most important aspect of Konmari. You want to tidy up in the correct order to meet your tidying needs by starting with what’s most necessary first.

The right order for this method includes clothes, books, papers (all documents and manuals), miscellaneous items like small electronics and accessories, and mementoes.

sk Yourself if it Sparks Joy

Deciding if something sparks joy is the criteria for keeping and discarding items when decluttering. In the Konmari method, your feelings are the standard for decision making, especially knowing what sparks joy. To determine this when tidying, you need to pick up each object at a time and ask yourself quietly if it does spark joy.

Pay attention to how your body responds. Joy is personal, so that everyone will experience it differently. By selecting only those things that inspire joy, you can precisely identify what you love and what you need.

How to Use The Konmari Method at Home

Clothes

The first category you need to tackle for a tidy house is clothing. While you might be used to cleaning out clothes in your closet and then your drawers, the Konmari method suggests gathering clothes and accessories from all over your home, including your bedroom closets, coat closets, drawers and under the bed and put them all in one pile.

This will allow you how much you have and help you realize how much you don’t wear. If an item sparks joy, keep it and if not, give it to gratitude and donate your clothing. You can then learn how to iron the clothes remaining ones correctly and arrange them the right way.

Books

After clothes, the next category on the Konmari method checklist books, gather every book in your home and put them in a pile to decide which ones spark joy and which ones don’t. If your ideal lifestyle means that your space is filled with books, keep them.

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Papers

Every paper in your home, including documents, letters, bills and receipts, should be sorted using the Konmari method. Keep only what you need or use daily, plus one copy of everything else.

Miscellaneous Items

Any other items that don’t fit into the above categories should be put in a pile to determine what sparks joy and what doesn’t. Sort through everything carefully. Create groups like electronics, beauty supplies, home decor, canned goods and writing utensils.

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It might be tempting to go room by room for an extensive category; make sure you gather items from all over your home and put them in one pile. That way, you’ll be able to store similar items together to easily find them and not have anything to spread out.

Sentimental Items

Sentimental items hold deep meaning and can be tough to part with. If you’ve ever seen the episode of ‘Hoarders’ where the woman won’t get rid of her deceased mother’s old suitcase, this method isn’t for you.

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Keep only those sentimental objects that truly bring you joy and store them in a designated area. That way, you’ll have them but won’t be reminded of them at every turn.

How to Store Items that Spark Joy

After deciding what to keep in your home, good storage solutions will help you keep everything organized. Here are some of the best Konmari organization and storage tips:

Try Konmari Folding

The Konmari folding method is perfect for organizing your clothes. Marie Kondo didn’t only create her method of decluttering and organizing, but she has also shared a unique folding technique for clothes and linens. The Konmari method of folding helps keep drawers, baskets and bins neat and tidy.

Use Boxes in Drawers

Don’t toss them out if you have gift boxes, shoe boxes, and jewelry boxes. These are great DIY home storage solutions for keeping small things like jewelry, beauty supplies, phone chargers and other miscellaneous things organized in drawers and cabinets.

Store Papers in File Organizers

The paper file organizer is perfect for storing mails, bills and other papers. It protects your documents from getting lost in the clutter of the drawer.

Invest in Wicker Baskets

Wicker baskets are great for keeping your cupboard free from clutter. Use them to store foodstuffs, dry fruits, snacks and other kitchen essentials.

FAQs on What is the KonMari Method

Is the Konmari method effective?

The Konmari method is a highly efficient and effective organizing strategy that has helped many people declutter their homes. The beauty of this method is that it doesn’t follow any specific order in tidying up – you can start from anywhere and go on to the next activity.

What are the benefits of the Konmari method?

The Konmari method advises people to get rid of useless, unnecessary belongings. If applied correctly, this will help you find more relaxation and peace in your life. It also teaches you not to keep hold of things that do not bring joy into your life.

Final Thought on What is the Konmari Method

Do you have items that spark joy that you can’t fit in your home? Well, get organized with these temporary storage solutions with extra space storage to keep items that fit your ideal lifestyle, even if you don’t have room for them now.

 

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Brown patch lawn disease is a common problem that affects many gardens.

Brown patches on your grass are not always caused by the same type of fungus or bacteria, so it’s important to have a professional identify the problem before you try to fix it yourself.

In this article,  we will discuss what brown patch lawn disease is, the signs of brown patch lawn disease, how to prevent and treat brown patch lawn disease, and where you can find more information about diagnosing and treating brown spot diseases in your yard. Keep reading to find out more. 

What Is Brown Patch Lawn Disease?

Brown patch lawn disease is a fungus that affects grasses. It can cause patches of your lawn to turn brown, and in severe cases, it can kill the grass. The fungus thrives in hot, humid weather, and so the best way to prevent brown patch lawn disease is to make sure your lawn is healthy and well-maintained.

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By watering your lawn properly and mowing it regularly, you can help to keep the grass healthy and reduce the chances of brown patch lawn disease. If you do notice signs of brown patch lawn disease, it’s important to take action right away to prevent the fungus from spreading.

Alternatively, you can also treat brown patch lawn disease with fungicides. There are many different types of fungicides available, so it’s important to talk to a professional about which one is best for your situation.

Signs Of Brown Patch Lawn Disease

The most common sign of brown patch lawn disease is a large, circular patch of brown grass. The edges of the patch will be well-defined, and the centre will be relatively dry. In some cases, you may also see small patches of pink or purple fungus growing on the edge of the brown patch. If you see any of these signs, particularly if you live in an area where the fungus is common, it’s important to have your grass tested.

Another common sign of brown patch lawn disease is the appearance of lesions on the leaves of the grass. These lesions will be dark green or brown, and they will often have a yellow halo around them. If you see any lesions on your grass, it’s important to contact a professional right away.

How To Prevent And Treat Brown Patch Lawn Disease

Brown patch lawn disease is difficult to eliminate, but there are some things you can do to ensure that it doesn’t spread or get worse. The best way to prevent brown patches is to keep your grass healthy by regularly mowing, fertilizing, watering, and aerating it. If you have prolonged periods of hot weather every year, consider installing shade trees so that your yard is cooler. If possible, choose two different kinds of grasses for your yard so they don’t all die at once if one type gets sick.

Moreover, you can also treat brown patch lawn disease with fungicides. There are many different types of fungicides available, so it’s important to talk to a professional about which one is best for your situation.

If you do see signs of a brown patch, it’s important to take action right away to prevent the fungus from spreading. You can treat the fungus with fungicides, or you can try to remove the affected areas of grass and replace them with new sod. It’s important to remember that brown patch lawn disease can be difficult to get rid of, so you may need to take these steps more than once to get rid of the fungus completely. Speaking of fungus, here’show to get rid of mold

Finally, it’s important to remember that not all patches of brown grass are caused by brown patch lawn disease. Many other things can cause your grass to turn brown, such as drought, pests, and poor soil quality. If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem, it’s best to contact a professional so they can diagnose the issue and recommend a course of treatment.

Other Important Considerations

If you hire a company to diagnose and treat your lawn, make sure that they use environmentally-friendly fungicides. Some types of fungicide can be harmful to the environment and even pets and children. It’s also important to water your lawn after treating it with fungicide because too much moisture will encourage the fungus to grow again.

You should also remember that brown patch disease is more likely to attack the cool-season grasses in your yard. Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and ryegrass are all very susceptible to brown patch disease. This means that some parts of your yard may die while other parts thrive depending on what type of grass grows there naturally.

Bermuda grass is less susceptible to brown patches, so if you have this type of grass in your yard, you’re less likely to see signs of fungus.

In short, brown patch lawn disease is a difficult fungus to get rid of, but there are some things you can do to prevent it from spreading or getting worse. If you see any signs of the disease, contact a professional right away so they can recommend a course of treatment. 

Remember that not all patches of brown grass are caused by brown patches, so it’s important to diagnose the problem before taking any action.

The weather conditions

Humid weather combined with cloddy soils can cause a fungal brown patch. The fungus that causes the disease proliferates in moist conditions. To prevent brown patch lawn disease, strive to keep your grass as dry as possible. Watergrass deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.

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Brown patch lawn disease – FAQ

When does brown patch lawn disease show up?

Brown patch lawn disease often appears in late summer or early fall.

What are the symptoms of brown patch lawn disease?

The most common symptoms of brown patch lawn disease are circular patches of dead, brown grass. These patches can often be several feet across and can spread rapidly.

What causes brown patch lawn disease?

Brown patch lawn disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in moist conditions. The fungus feeds on the grass’s leaves, causing them to die and turn brown.

How can I treat brown patch lawn disease?

There is no cure for brown patch lawn disease, but you can take steps to prevent it from spreading. You can start by mowing your lawn at the proper height and removing dead or dying patches of grass as soon as you notice them. 

Finally, try to keep your lawn as dry as possible; don’t let water stand on it for long periods, and make sure that you’re not over-watering your lawn.

What do dark rings around the patches mean?

If you see dark rings around the patches of brown grass, it means that the fungus is also attacking the roots of the grass. This can kill the grass and cause it to turn black.

What should I do if my lawn is severely affected by brown patch disease?

If your lawn is severely affected by brown patch disease, you may need to replace it with new grass. You can start by removing all of the dead or dying grass and then tilling the soil to loosen it up. Next, spread a layer of topsoil over the soil and then sow the new grass seeds. Finally, water the area well and keep it moist until the seeds germinate.

Final thoughts on brown patch lawn disease

In conclusion, brown patch lawn disease is a serious problem that can cause a lot of damage to your lawn. Early detection and treatment are essential for preventing any long-term damage. Be sure to keep an eye on your lawn and contact a professional if you suspect that your garden may have this disease.

For further reading, check out this post onhow to test soil ph. This will ensure that your soil isn’t too acidic and won’t end up having trouble absorbing the right nutrients.

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If you have pets and your house is carpeted, you know better than anybody that these two can be hard to maintain. But not if you have the Bissel proheat 2x revolution pet pro carpet cleaner. According to those who’ve tried this carpet cleaner, pet hair, pee, and other pet stains are no match for it.

But does it really live up to its name? Is this carpet cleaner worth the price? Well, in this review, we’ll look at the key features, pros and cons, and value of this carpet cleaner. Read on to see if it’s worth your penny.

What Is Bissell Proheat 2x Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner?

Bissell proheat is the latest high-tech carpet cleaner from Bissell, a company widely known for its quality cleaners. In the age of digital everything, this cleaner is not just your usual machine that sprays water onto your carpets and sucks it back up again with a dirty waste tank also filled with water after being filtered. This cleaner uses hot tap water to clean your carpets and then recycles the water into the tank with little to no wastage.

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This little machine may be small, but it packs a punch. Not only does it offer the perfect carpet cleaning solution, but with its built-in stain remover, it can also remove most pet stains and odors without you having to scrub at them yourself.

Bissell Proheat 2x Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner Features

This is the best Bissell carpet cleaning machine for pet owners, but what has made it so popular? Here’s a quick overview of this machine’s key features:

Express Clean Mode

The Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro carpet cleaner has a one-touch mode specifically for pet stains. Just press the button, and the machine does all the work for you, including heating the water to the perfect temperature. This feature is indeed a time saver for all homeowners who don’t have much time at their disposal. It also has a deep cleaning mode that you can switch to remove stubborn stains.

Heatwave Technology

This Bissell cleaner also comes with Heatwave technology, which helps maintain the cleaning temperature. With this, your carpets are always being cleaned at the right temperature, no matter how long the job takes. You don’t have to worry about always adjusting the temperatures, which can be time-consuming.

Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes

These PowerBrushes help you dig deep down into the fibers of your carpets and extract all the dirt, dust, and pet hair. The brushes loosen all the dirt before actually removing them and leaving your carpet as clean as new. Not only will this leave your carpets cleaner, but it will also extend their lifespan. This feature comes in handy for anyone who wants to deep clean a carpet

ntibacterial Cleaning

If pet odor takes over your carpet, no need to worry if you have this machine. With its built-in antibacterial cleaning, this machine will eliminate the stench that comes with pet stains and odors. The technology controls all the bacterial that could be hiding in your carpet, living it clean and fresh.

2-in-1 Upholstery Tool

Another thing you’ll love about this machine is the 2-in-1 upholstery tool. This tool lets you clean furniture, stairs, and other delicate surfaces easily. The narrow width of the tool means that you can get into tight spaces and remove all the dirt, dust, and pet hair with little effort.

Comes Complete

If you buy this pet carpet cleaner, you won’t need to buy anything else separately as it comes fully equipped for the job. The machine comes with an 8-ounce bottle of Bissell’s professional Deep Cleaning formula, a trial size of their SpotBot Pet stain remover, a crevice tool, and a dirty water tank to collect dirty water that comes from carpet cleaning. In addition, the machine features a generous 3-year warranty.

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Bissell Proheat 2x Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner Pros and Cons

Pros:

Here are some things that you’ll love about Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro carpet cleaner:

Hot tap water is used to clean your carpets: This means less wastage, so you’re being eco-friendly when using this machine. It saves time and effort by having a pre-programmed one-button mode for pet stains.Made specifically for pet owners: If you have pets, this machine comes as a huge relief as it has tons of features that are perfect for pet owners. These include the Express Clean Mode, Heatwave technology, and antibacterial cleaning. It also comes with a 2-in-1 upholstery tool for delicate surfaces.3-year warranty: This machine is built to last, and in case anything does go wrong, you’re covered with a generous 3-year warranty.Easy to Use: The machine also comes with a user guide, making it easy for you to set up and start using it.It offers powerful cleaning: The Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes help to dig deep into the fibers of your carpets and extract all the dirt, dust, and pet hair. This leaves your carpet as clean as new.Easy to clean: This carpet may be bulky, but it’s one of the easiest to use even for those learning how to clean a carpet. You have to plug it in, wait till the Ready indicator light turns on, and press the Express Clean button.Comes complete: All you need to get started is included when you buy the Bissell carpet cleaner. This includes a 32 oz bottle of their professional deep cleaning formula, a trial size of their SpotBot Pet stain remover, a crevice tool, and a dirty water tank at no additional cost.

Cons:

Here are some things you might not like about Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro carpet cleaner:

Heavy and bulky: The machine is heavy and bulky, making it difficult to move around when cleaning. The cord is also short compared to other machines.Makes noise: The machine makes quite a bit of noise when used, which might be a problem for some people.Only cleans carpets: If you’re looking for a machine that can also clean your furniture and stairs, then this is not the one for you.Not easy to set up: The machine is not as easy to set up as some other machines on the market. However, it comes with a detailed instruction manual that you need to keep nearby.

Bissell Proheat 2x Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner Performance Comparison

The Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro carpet cleaner is a clear winner when it comes to performance comparison with many other carpet cleaners. It has many perfect features for pet owners, such as the Express Clean Mode, deep clean mode, Heatwave technology, and antibacterial cleaning. In addition, it comes with a 2-in-1 upholstery tool for delicate surfaces. The machine also offers powerful cleaning with the Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes.

So, if you’re looking for a powerful and efficient pet carpet cleaner, the Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro is a perfect choice. It comes with a generous 3-year warranty and is easy to use. Plus, it’s perfect for removing pet stains and hair from your carpets.

Should You Buy Bissell Proheat 2x Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner?

So, are you asking if this carpet cleaner is really worth it? Well, you have the answer in the review above. But to be sure, we can guarantee that the carpet cleaner is worth the money considering all the features and the advantages. Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro carpet cleaner is a perfect choice for pet owners who need to deep clean their carpets. And if you’re looking for a machine that’s easy to use, this is just what you need.

Not to mention that it’s not as expensive as other carpet cleaners out there. So, if you’re looking for a powerful and efficient pet carpet cleaner, the Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro is a perfect choice. It comes with a generous 3-year warranty and is easy to use. Plus, it’s perfect for removing pet stains and hair from your carpets.

Well, we won’t fail to mention the downsides, which are, as we have already said, the weight and noise. Plus, it’s not easy to set up and not suitable for cleaning stairs and furniture.

To sum it all up, this is a good buy if you’re looking for a carpet cleaner that can solve your pet hair problems. So, if you have the money, go ahead and buy it.

What Users are Saying About Bissell Proheat

Bissell proheat rates well online as most users give it a 4 to 5-star rating. Most positive reviews praise the carpet cleaner for its powerful cleaning performance. However, some negative comments say that it’s heavy and bulky, just as we’ve stated.

One reviewer said they love the carpet cleaner because it gets rid of pet stains in just minutes. They also mentioned that their pets love to drink from a certain area of their home, which has resulted in tough stains over time. Overall, most users love this carpet cleaner and won’t hesitate to refer others.

Our Verdict on Bissell Proheat 2x Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner

We think you won’t find a better carpet cleaner for pet owners than Bissell proheat. The reasons are obvious. First, the rug doctor has a unique design that makes cleaning easy and efficient. Second, the Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes make deep cleaning a breeze. Plus, it comes with a generous 3-year warranty and lets you clean carpets as well as furniture and stairs.

So, if you’re looking for a powerful carpet cleaner that’s perfect for pet owners, Bissell proheat 2x revolution pet pro is the one you need. It’s easy to use and efficient, making it a great choice for busy pet owners. You can’t go wrong with this carpet cleaner if you want to always have a clean carpet.

 

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Vinegar is a miracle cleaner and disinfectant. It can be used to clean many surfaces in the home, including kitchen counters and sinks, toilets, bathtubs and showers , windows and mirrors, as well as floors.

In this article, I’ll tell you how to easily make vinegar spray so you can start using it to clean your home. Let’s get right into it.

Making DIY All-Purpose Vinegar Spray

Making and using vinegar and water spray is so easy and cheap, you can almost do it with your eyes closed.

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All you need is:

A spray bottle (if it’s plastic go for the 1-litre size if it’s glass get one of 0.5 litres). The small 0.25 litre plastic bottles are also great because they are small enough for storage purposes yet large enough to use when cleaning larger areas.Vinegar. Plain, white distilled or apple cider vinegar will do fine here. You can also make your fruit-flavored vinegar by adding some juice from oranges, lemons, or apples to regular white distilled vinegar in a ratio of about 1 part fruit juice to 3 parts white wine vinegar. For each cup of fruit juice you use, add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the vinegar.

To make the spray:

Fill your spray bottle with white distilled or apple cider vinegar. If you’re using fruit-flavored vinegar, fill it halfway with that and halfway with white distilled vinegar.Fill the rest of the bottle with water.Shake well before each use.

That’s it. How easy was that? Now you’re ready to start cleaning your home with this powerful natural cleaner.

Important Tips To Keep In Mind

There are a few things to keep in mind when using your DIY all-purpose vinegar spray:

Using A Paper Towel 

Using a paper towel will help to avoid streaks on surfaces like mirrors and windows. Just spray the vinegar mixture on the surface, wait a few minutes for it to work its magic, then wipe off with a paper towel.

Safety First.

Vinegar is a powerful cleaner, so always take precautions when using it. Never mix it with other cleaners (such as bleach) or use it near an open flame. Keep it away from children and pets, and never drink it.

Do Not Use On Marble Surfaces 

Vinegar is very hard on marble surfaces so don’t use this cleaner if you have marble floors. This is especially true with marble kitchen countertops. Marble can be damaged by vinegar, so use this spray sparingly if you have marble surfaces in your home.

Using Lemon Juice In Place Of Vinegar

Lemon juice is a great replacement for vinegar in most cases when making DIY all-purpose cleaners. It has the same disinfecting properties as vinegar, but I find it’s less harsh on my hands and smells better too. 

A good way to get rid of bad odors is to mix some lemon juice (room temperature) with baking soda until it forms a paste-like substance, then spread it over the areas that smell bad (such as fridge shelves or garbage bins). Let sit for 15-30 minutes before wiping with paper towels. This will help to remove the bad odor and also disinfect the surface.

Don’t Spray It Directly On Your Skin

If you do happen to get a bit of vinegar spray on your hands or skin, make sure to wash it off quickly with water. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to wear gloves while cleaning with this spray.

Using Baking Soda Along With A Vinegar Spray

While there are manyincredible uses for white vinegar, one of my favorites is using it in combination with baking soda. These two ingredients, when used together, can form an amazing all-purpose cleaner that’s great for tackling tough messes. Here are a few ways you can use them together:

To clean your oven, mix 1/2 cup vinegar with 1/4 cup baking soda. Spray the mixture on all surfaces of the oven and let sit for 30 minutes before wiping off.To clean countertops and kitchen surfaces, mix 1/2 cup vinegar with 1/4 cup baking soda in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use and spray on the surface. Let sit for a few minutes before wiping off with a paper towel or sponge.To remove water stains and mineral deposits, spray some vinegar and baking soda mixture on the surface and let it sit for a few minutes.Cleaning your painted cabinets properly with baking soda is a great way to remove stubborn dirt and grime. Just mix equal parts of vinegar and baking soda in a bowl, dip your brush in, and start scrubbing. Rinse off the brush when you’re done and give it a good shake to get rid of any excess water.

Using Essential Oils In Your Diy All-Purpose Spray

If you like to use natural cleaning products that not only disinfect but also leave behind a lovely scent, adding 5-10 drops of lavender or tea tree oil is an easy way to do this. Adding the essential oils will help mask any unpleasant odours from the vinegar while also ensuring that your home smells fresh and clean. 

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As I mentioned earlier, lemon juice is another great replacement for vinegar (in most cases) when making DIY all-purpose cleaners because of its disinfecting properties and pleasant citrus smell. But feel free to experiment with different essential oils to find the scent that you like best. Just make sure that the oil is labelled as “pure” or “undiluted” so that it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals.

Final Thoughts On DIY All-Purpose Vinegar Spray

In conclusion, this DIY all-purpose vinegar spray is a huge money saver and works just as well as most off-the-shelf cleaners. It doesn’t matter if it’s vodka or vinegar, if you can clean something with vodka then you can do the same with vinegar since they both have antiseptic properties.

Vinegar and vodka contain about 80% water so unless you want to spend $30 on a bottle of stuff with 60% alcohol content, I’d go for good old-fashioned distilled white vinegar that costs around $3-4 per gallon.

The best part about this whole procedure is also that after doing it once you no longer need to buy any cleaning products anymore because you now have an endless supply at your disposal every day for a very cheap price.

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Keeping your grass healthy and at the right height is important if you want to enjoy it. If you don’t know how high the grass should be cut, you will have difficulty keeping your landscape looking great. This can lead to many problems down the road that are very difficult to solve.

There are different factors that decide how high grass should be cut. So, you need to do some research before deciding how much of an adjustment needs to be made with regard to cutting the lawn.

Our guide below can help answer this question for you and teach you more about cutting lawns in general.

The Rule of Thumb

How high should you cut the grass when you mow? The general rule of thumb for determining how high the grass should be cut is only to cut off no more than one-third of the height of your lawn. Each mowing should only remove about the top third of the grass blade.

It’s recommended that you stick to this rule of thumb and a lesser degree in spring. If you can’t remember the measurements in summer, consider mowing at a greater height. It’s also a good idea to choose one of the higher settings of your lawnmower wheels when the weather is hot or dry and mow at that height until you approach the fall season and the weather starts to cool off a bit.

Factors to Consider on the Rule of Thumb

Types of Grass

The first thing that you will have to think about is the type of grass lawn you have. Some people don’t realize it, but there are different types of grass, and they all grow at different speeds and heights. Every grass type has its mowing height.

Keeping the Weeds Away

The next factor to think about is weed control. Weeds love growing in tall grass, and it’s important that you keep theirs under control. If you leave your grass too long, the weeds will take hold and ruin your lawn and use up a lot of water and nutrients from the soil.

Keep the Bugs Away

That’s not the only reason to keep your grass short. Bugs also like heat, and just like humans, they spend their time in shadier, cooler places. If you have a very tall lawn, it will grow over these areas and make them hotter because there won’t be any shade for the bugs to escape the heat.

In addition, too long grass is difficult to mow, and long grass clippings have to be removed and cannot be left on the lawn.

Laziness Doesn’t Pay

Keeping your grass cut short is also better for you. It’s far easier to maintain a shorter lawn because it requires less mowing, meaning that you can advance the cutting height more often. The mowing frequency depends on your grass type, its optimal height, and the grass growth speed, depending on the weather conditions.

For instance, cool grass such as Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue grows faster during the cool spring and fall weather. While the exact heights vary depending on the grass type, the range of cool-season turf is between 1 and 5 inches.

Different Grasses Require Different Mowing Heights

All lawns are not the same. For instance, cut the grass too short, it becomes stressed, thin and you’ll be left with a shallower root system. Cutting the grass crowns will also make the turf vulnerable to weed pressure and require pesticide applications to prevent weeds and discourage pests.

Warm season grasses such as zoysia grass and Bermuda will tolerate a shorter, tighter cut, while cool season grasses like fescue and bluegrass need to be mowed taller to help shade the root system and keep heat stress away.

Mowing Too Low Damages Grass

Mowing your lawn too low will have a detrimental effect on your grass. When you cut the grass too low, it causes damage to the plant’s crown and results in a weaker root system, making your lawn more vulnerable to weeds, disease, and pests.

Mowing Too Low Damages Grass

Mowing too low reduces the density of the grass, making the lawn susceptible to invasive summer weed pressures. By mowing your grass too low, you may unknowingly be promoting crabgrass to grow because shade provided by higher cut grass blades shields the crabgrass seeds from much-needed sunlight.

Mowing too low also makes the turf vulnerable to summer heat. Without taller grass blades to shade the summer sun, low mowing can lead to stress damage quickly during long periods of summer drought.

How Short To Cut Grass in Spring?

At a minimum, it is best to cut turf no shorter than 3 inches during the early spring. If you have been postponing trimming your lawn because there was snow on the ground and cold weather, do not be tempted to mow just yet. Wait until grass blades begin hardening off on their own as summer approaches.

Mow cool season grass to a height of 3 inches tall and cut warm season grasses as low as half an inch up to 1.5 inches.

What Height Should Grass be Cut in Summer?

As temperature rises, your lawn height also goes up in summer. So, as the summer arrives, raise your mower height for cool season grasses and keep it closer to four inches. A taller plant shades the soil and keeps the root zone cooler during high heat periods. If you allow your lawn to grow too tall, it can result in broader leaf blades, lower plant density, and more susceptibility to turf diseases.

The Best Height to Cut Grass in the Fall

When inching into the fall, mid-length grass is the preference. Tall grass can get matted and become diseased in winter, but lawn roots can get exposed to extremely damagingly cold temperatures when you cut too short. So, focus on striking a balance in fall to prepare your lawn for winter.

Cut your cool season grass to about 2.5 inches before the first frost in winter and mow warm season grasses to two inches in fall.

How Often Should You Mow Your Grass?

Having a routine mowing schedule for your lawn is key. Grass will grow at different rates depending on fertilization, season, and weather conditions. Grass that is too long will not only make your lawn look shaggy, but it can also lead to problems with the health of your grass.

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Long grass can prevent water, sunlight, and nutrients from getting to the soil, which can cause your grass to turn yellow or brown. It can also increase weed growth and create an environment where insects and diseases can thrive.

What is the One-Third Rule?

Regardless of your grass species, you shouldn’t remove more than one third of the grass height when mowing. This is important because the grass is a living plant, and they all undergo some stress when cut.

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FAQs on How High Should Grass be Cut

Can you mow your lawn when it’s wet?

No, avoid mowing your lawn when it’s wet because other than jamming the lawn mower blades and clogging the discharge chute, wet grass can also leave clumps of grass on the lawn. Grass collecting on the mower blades also aids in tearing the grass much like a dull blade. Keeping your lawn mower blade sharp shouldn’t be overstated.

How often should the mower blade get sharpened?

Keep your mower blade sharpened as a cleaner cutting blade results in less stress on the turf. A dull mower blade rips and shreds the grass leaf, making the plant susceptible to disease. A good rule of thumb is to sharpen your blade every ten mower hours.

Final Thought on How High Should Grass be Cut

As you can see, keeping your lawn about two and a half inches tall and leaving the grass slightly taller about three inches in the shady areas will maintain a healthy lawn. It is also important to keep your mower blade sharpened and collect the grass clippings. Follow these tips, and you will be on your way to a lush, green lawn.

 

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Crabgrass is an invasive weed that can ruin your lawn. If you do not fight back, it will become a serious problem for you and may even lower your home’s value.

The first step in fighting crabgrass is knowing about its behavior and lifestyle. By understanding how this weed behaves, you will have an easier time finding ways to kill it and defend your turf from this invasive plant.

Many products out there claim they can help you get rid of crabgrass once and for all, but only a few works as advertised. In fact, some may cause more harm than good if used incorrectly because they contain harmful chemicals or toxins that can damage the grass when applied incorrectly or too often.

To make sure you choose the right product for killing crabgrass, check out our guide on how to kill crabgrass below.

How to Kill Crabgrass Naturally

If crabgrass is a problem in your yard, you have more than one way of getting rid of this weed. The most natural way is to cultivate a healthy lawn and outcompete the pesky weed. Other natural ways include pulling the weed in the spring, providing your lawn with the proper nutrients, and reseeding where necessary.

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For tenacious crabgrass infestation, you can learn how to kill crabgrass with post emergent herbicides that kill grass well after germination. Post emergent herbicides work by killing the crabgrass plant.

On the other hand, pre eminent herbicides kill crabgrass before the seeds emerge. This makes it easier to get the job done and allowing you time in the season to cultivate a lawn where there once were weeds.

When to Kill Crabgrass

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the plant’s life cycle to effectively eradicate crabgrass. When spring soil temperatures reach 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, crabgrass seeds germinate. From mid summer through fall, the plant produces more seeds to increase its numbers. Once the first frost arrives, the plants themselves are killed, not the seeds.

When using an organic method, wait until the seedlings are big enough to hand pull the roots and all. While crabgrass doesn’t spread via roots, removing the whole plant in early spring before amending the soil and reseeding is essential.

Pre-emergent herbicide, also known as crabgrass preventer, comes in either a granular or liquid form and kills crabgrass seedlings right as they germinate.

How to Kill Crabgrass Step by Step

Tools and Materials

Post emergent herbicidePre emergent herbicideNon selective herbicideWork glovesOrganic compostPitchfork or weeding toolGrass seedPump sprayerGarden rakeSpadeSafety glasses

Pull Out the Crabgrass by Hand or Using a Tool

Before you start, you should gear up. Wear eye protection, gloves and old clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. Also, the soil will be wet, so make sure your shoes aren’t worn out. Before hand pulling the young crabgrass, water the problem area with a sprinkler or garden hose and wait about 30 minutes for the water to soak in.

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This method is very important because even if you use herbicide to kill crabgrass weed, you’ll still have to dig it out to completely get rid of it. Try this method before using chemicals because chemicals have detrimental effects on the surrounding lawn grasses. Removing crabgrass naturally by digging up is a great way of eliminating the weeds without killing lawn grass.

pply a Crabgrass Killer Herbicide

Different types of crabgrass killer herbicides are available, but you need to make sure the one you choose is for your type of lawn. For instance, a homeowner with a St. Augustine grass lawn should not use a product designed for a Bermuda grass lawn because it will kill St. Augustine and the weed.

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For buffalo grass, centipede grass, fine fescue, Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass, use herbicide with mesotrione as an active ingredient. It’s also important to read and follow the herbicide label instructions carefully. Improper use of these products can not only kill crabgrass but also other plants in your lawn.

Use a quality broadleaf weed killer to kill the crabgrass plants that remain after the seeding process. It will take several weeks to work, but it should eventually kill off any remaining crabgrass plants. Raking up all dead grass will make it easier for homeowners to keep the area free of crabgrass seeds.

dd Compost

Use a fertilizer with crabgrass fertilizer added to it to save time. Apply the fertilizer just before it rains to work the fertilizer and the herbicide into the soil. This will help thicken the turf. Thicker turf helps to squeeze out crabgrass plants missed by the herbicide. You can also learn how to make compost to use instead of artificial fertilizer.

pply Grass Seed

If you have large bare patches in your lawn, reseed these areas with a good quality grass seed mix. A mix that contains perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue is a good choice. These grasses are all cool-season grasses that will germinate and grow quickly, helping to fill in the bare spots.

pply Corn Gluten Meal

Corn gluten meal is a by-product of the corn milling process. It is a natural, organic herbicide that helps to suppress crabgrass growth. Apply it in the spring, before crabgrass germinates, at the rate of 10 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

Water the area well after application. Corn gluten also works as a lawn fertilizer due to its high nitrogen content. It works by inhibiting crabgrass seeds from forming roots after germination. Corn gluten meal can be put down as pre-emergent to prevent crabgrass and other weeds that germinate in the spring.

However, corn gluten doesn’t prevent the germination of crabgrass. Instead, it only controls it by feeding lawn grass with sufficient nitrogen, making lawn grass grow faster, choking out crabgrass.

Fight Crabgrass with Healthy Lawns

Fight those pesky crabgrass infestations by first building a healthy lawn. Black Medic, tall fescue and hybrid Bermuda grass varieties are all known for their ability to handle stress and drought and do not encourage the spread of crabgrass. A thick lawn provides a dark canopy of grass blades over the seeds to sprout.

Thoroughly water your lawn once a week to encourage the grass’s root system to go deeper, making the whole lawn hardier and heat tolerant. Avoid short, frequent watering as the sips will promote a shallow, weaker root system in your lawn. Also, don’t mow wet grass if you want to encourage healthy growth.

pply a Double Dose of Herbicide to Crabgrass Hotspots

Limit crabgrass growth in areas like driveways, sidewalks and curbs or on south-facing banks by doing a targeted double treatment when necessary. This is because these areas absorb a lot of heat during the summer months, making them more susceptible to crabgrass.

Once you’ve treated your entire lawn, go back and make another pass about six to eight feet wide, along with hotspot areas. This will help keep crabgrass from taking hold.

Burn Weeds Off With a Blow Torch

When you’ve got an area where there is no grass at all, or you want to kill the weeds and not take out the entire lawn, try this trick. The target weeds absorb so much heat that they will pop when hit with flame. Some varieties of quack grass, for example, will burst into flames with just a couple of seconds of direct exposure to the torch flame.

However, be careful when using this method, as you can also damage nearby plants if you’re not careful. Make sure that you keep the flame moving and don’t hold it in one spot for too long. Also, avoid burning the lawn if it’s still wet from dew or rain.

This method is effective for killing weeds growing underneath the base of a tree, as the flame will effectively kill everything within about 3 to 4 inches of where it meets the ground.

Mow the New Grass

Crabgrass has a tough triangular stem to slice with a weed eating blade. However, if you take your mower and raise the blades as high as they will go, you can effectively cut the grass at its base. While this may not kill it immediately, it will prevent it from growing back for a period of time while the new grass takes hold.

If you have a lot of crabgrass, it’s best to start with the highest blade height and then work your way down as the new grass grows in. This will allow the lawn grass to protect its turf, depriving crabgrass seeds of the light they need to germinate.

Use Vinegar to Kill Crabgrass Organically

Vinegar is a natural herbicide that can be used to kill crabgrass. It’s important to use white distilled vinegar, as other types of vinegar may not be effective. To use vinegar to kill crabgrass, mix one part vinegar with three parts water in a spray bottle.

Spray the mixture on the crabgrass and weeds, and then wait for the weeds to die. Be sure to avoid spraying vinegar on any plants you want to keep, as it will kill them.

Use Baking Soda to Kill Crabgrass Naturally

Baking soda can be used to kill crabgrass. When making the mixture, it’s very important that no additional ingredients are included. To use baking soda for killing crabgrass, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water.

Add baking soda slowly, so the solution doesn’t bubble over when mixed. Pour this mixture on the crabgrass that you want to kill.

FAQs on How to Kill Crabgrass

What kills crabgrass and not the lawn?

Post emergent herbicides such as all in one weed killer or image herbicide kill crabgrass plus other lawn weeds and leave the lawn healthy.

Is there an organic way to kill crabgrass?

Yes, you can use baking soda as an organic way to kill crabgrass. Baking soda is a natural herbicide and will not harm the green lawn or surrounding areas.

What causes crabgrass?

Crabgrass is a summer annual weed that thrives in hot summer weather conditions and does best in soil with a neutral to acidic pH level, typically between 6 and 7.5. It becomes dormant during the winter months and will remain until springtime when the soil warms up.

Crabgrass is typically seed produced; however, it can also reproduce via its roots or stolons in the same season in which it germinated.

Final Thought on How to Kill Crabgrass

As you can see, crabgrass is an unsightly weed that can wreak havoc on your lawn. It is important to get rid of crabgrass at the first sign of its germination to keep it from spreading. The most effective way to get rid of crabgrass is through preventative measures, such as applying pre-emergent herbicides in early springtime when the soil is still cool.

If you cannot get to your lawn early in the season, you should apply a post-emergent herbicide to kill the crabgrass. These methods, when used together, will give you good results in keeping these weeds under control so they won’t wreak havoc on your lawn.

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