We’ve just wrapped up the annual Lawncology® event in Athens, which was an incredible success. Lawn care companies from all over the U.S. descended upon Georgia to learn, network, laugh and contribute to a group that is absolutely dedicated to their craft. One of the most talked about observations was how far along certain plants and trees were in the area. Daffodils are blooming, redbuds are showing tremendous color, weeds are everywhere and the ground is warm. This got the group talking about strategies for spring and summer weed maintenance and what could be done now as many companies have yet to fire up for the Spring.

Now, I know that the weather is unpredictable and to think that this particular article will hold true across the country is a bit far-fetched. For those of you whom this does hold true, it will be particularly useful. One of the big concerns for most applicators is timing of pre-emergent herbicide and, in particular, missing key windows for apps if they have to get spring aerations complete. I am feeling that this pressure is on right now and some companies are hustling to get aerations done before too much breakthrough occurs. For others it’s the opposite, they are applying pre-em and will need to forego the aerations this year which can lead to loss of revenue. I’m certain that some of what is mentioned here will ring true for most operators. Fortunately, we have a very simple solution to get you through this time.

By now you are all familiar with N-Ext Air8™ and the value it brings to your lawn programs, this is an extra opportunity for you to stay ahead while these early spring temps are getting you rushed to get out the door and onto lawns. There is a tremendous value here as even a low rate of N-Ext Air8™ at 3 ounces per thousand can make a tremendous impact on your first round.

Let’s weigh out the benefits really quick:

1. Time on site. Less time dealing with additional equipment will keep you on or ahead of schedule so that you can keep adding customers to your business
2. Greater water penetration. Even a low rate provides value to soil drainage and compaction relief allowing for lawns to take greater advantage of spring rains and in some warm season grasses, allow for the turf to wake up sooner than usual, giving you the visual edge against competitors
3. Jump start on rooting. Obviously, this is the function we want going first and foremost so that the turf is more prepared for summer stresses and first fertilizer applications.
4. Mixing and efficacy with Pre-em. This is the best part, if you miss your mechanical aeration window, fear not! You have a tool that allows you to still loosen the soil and not break your Pre-m barrier.

The combo works exceptionally well together allowing you to truly capitalize on early spring weather. This application of Pre-m and N-Ext Air8™ can either work as an inclusion into your program or if you are adding liquid aeration to your offerings this year, can function as your first app. The overall agronomic upside is huge. Hitting these apps right away will give the turf and edge going into regular growing season and you won’t feel rushed to get mechanical aerations done before you’re ready.

I believe timing in lawn care is everything and getting behind can open you up to a multitude of issues later on in the season. No one likes to chase their own tail and 2020 has the potential to open you up for this if the current trend in both weather and households requesting lawn care continues. So, while I’m currently looking at sub-zero temps from my window, even the local weather is predicted to and has shown some very warm temps the last couple weeks, enough to have grass seed germinate on the warmest days, this tells me, we need to be ready.

As this article is intended to give you and edge, I would be foolish not to mention that Greene County Fertilizer Company is carrying pre-emergent as well as a plethora of other lawn related chemicals for 2020. These products can be strapped right along with your fertilizer or bio-stimulant orders or direct shipped from the manufacturer. Be sure to contact your Account Representative about these offerings. Happy Marchuary Everyone!