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Keep Your No-Mow Lawn In Top Shape This Fall With These Tips
By SANDY BAKER
While you may have invested in a no-mow lawn to avoid spending much time maintaining it, fall is the time of year to roll up your sleeves to ensure the rest of the year goes well.
Start by removing leaves, twigs, and other debris to avoid mildew buildup. Consider using a mulching lawn mower to break the leaves down and add organic matter to the soil.
It’s not necessary to fertilize your no-mow lawn during the fall months. No-mow lawns don’t need a lot of nitrogen, and too much of it will damage the root system.
Fall is ideal for over-seeding your no-mow lawn due to the weather conditions. Unless there is a significant amount of thatch, you won't need to till the soil before seeding.
When possible, water the area in the early morning hours for 10 to 20 minutes, allowing the soil to saturate, and repeat the next day or every other day for two or three weeks.
Fall is also the best time to remove thatch, the build-up of organic material on top of the soil. Removing it ensures that new, healthy grass will flourish in the spring.
Once the dead material is removed, use an aerating machine to make it easier for water and air to penetrate. This is an essential step for all no-mow lawns with heavy clay soil.