When winter comes, Arizona homeowners are often unwilling to let lawncare season end. This is the time when we are able to spend a lot of time outside, enjoying cooler days and a sun that is far less fierce than its summer counterpart. And although the weather is too cold for the Bermuda grass that we tend so carefully the rest of the year, it’s the perfect time for winter rye. Soft, emerald green, and thicker than Bermuda, this grass ensures your lawn stays beautiful year-round; here’s some lawn care tips to help you maintain that winter beauty.
Don’t Plant It Too Soon
If you want to make sure your winter rye survives, be sure not to plant it too soon. This grass thrives when the night time temperatures are at 60 degrees. Although you may be tempted to try and plant it in September, you should probably wait until the middle of October; summer likes to make a surprise reappearance after the calendar indicates it is fall.
Cut Your Bermuda Low
You don’t want to cut it all the way out, but winter rye does best when the Bermuda is cut down to about half an inch high. Cut the watering of your Bermuda in half to make it easier to “scalp” the grass, and rake and bag the cuttings for optimum rye growth.
Bring on the Stink
The best way to get your winter rye grass to grow is to start it with a layer of manure—the stinkier the better! You can also use the grass clippings you bagged after mowing your Bermuda, or purchase forest mulch, but we find manure is the most efficient choice; just hold your nose when walking by!
Water It Less Frequently Than Your Summer Grass
Watering every 3 to 10 days should be more than enough to keep it green and lush, as a softer sun and cooler temperatures lessens evaporation. A standard rule of thumb is to water less when the weather is cooler and more when it’s warmer, and to only water for about 15 minutes each session.
Hire New Image Landscape and Pools to Lessen Your Burden
Winter is busy for most of us, and even though we want the pretty lawn, we’re often too busy to give it the care it needs. This is where New Image Landscape and Pools comes into the picture. Schedule an appointment with us today and let us do the work for you this winter!
