1. Q. I am confused by all of the lawn grasses being recommended now. Which grass is the best?

A. The "best" grass depends upon one's perspective and situation. In my opinion, the "best" for most people is Zoysia. Zoysia grass is a turfgrass capable of surviving severe winters, summers and erratic rainfall. It is desirable because it can tolerate as much shade as St. Augustine and as much drought as Bermuda grass. The grass is also disease resistant and traffic tolerant. It grows slowly (it takes two years for a lawn plugged with Zoysia to fill in) so the recommended establishment procedure is to use solid sod. The two Zoysia varieties most available are Meyer and Emerald. Zoysia grass is slow growing and performs best when mowed every week. A reel-type mower is favored but not necessary if the lawn is mowed frequently (weekly).

The question of the benefits of fall fertilization for trees, shrubs and groundcovers has been discussed for many years. The benefits of fall fertilization for trees, shrubs and groundcovers has been confirmed by researchers in the field across the nation.