FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is a soil test? What does it show? Why is it so important?
A: A soil test begins when Family Organics, LLC arrives on a property and takes several core soil samples from the lawn area. Each core is measured and recorded for its length, root length, and thatch thickness.
These cores are sent to an independent soil lab for analysis. The analysis will show soil compaction, thatch problems, pH level, and any nutrient imbalances. The laboratory also provides recommendations to remedy any problems and enhance Family Organics, LLC turf healthcare programs.
Soil testing is important because turf grass thrives in different soil conditions than do weeds and crabgrass. The soil test shows what products and procedures are needed to amend the soil to make it conducive for growing grass and less so for weeds and crabgrass. Since a lawn is a cover crop and must grow in the same soil year after year, nutrients are constantly being used and depleted. We have our customers soil tested and amended every 3 years to address the nutrient imbalances.
Q: Why is it better to mow a lawn taller than mowing it short?
A: Mowing tall (3 1/2″ – 4″) is an important cultural practice mainly because taller grass shades the soil better than short grass. This is especially important during the hot dry summer. Shaded soil will lose far less moisture to evaporation than exposed soil. Turf grass grows best in moist, aerated soil while weeds and crabgrass can thrive and take over a dry and compacted lawn. Taller grass not only provides more shade to the soil, but there is also a correlation between the height of the grass blades and the length of the grass roots. The taller the grass the deeper the roots will be able to grow to absorb more water and nutrients.
Q: Why is it important to core aerate my lawn every year?
A. Soil compaction on a lawn is mainly the result of heavy lawn mowing equipment on the turf each week. Every time a lawn is mowed, the soil below the surface is compacted a little more. The more the soil is compacted, the less room there is for grass roots to grow and less space for air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Also, compacted soil is an ideal environment for weeds and crabgrass to thrive. The process of core aeration in the fall will relieve this compaction at the time of year when the grass plant is putting its energy into root development and there is less competition from weed seeds. At Family Organics, LLC we offer three choices for core aeration based around turf condition and clients’ budget.
Q: How does Organic Tick Control work?
A: The product that we use at family Organics, LLC has several modes of action. Since ticks breathe through openings on their skin, our product works by smothering the ticks and breaking down the skin and dehydrating the tick. The product also interrupts a tick’s neurological processes making it difficult to find a mate. The aroma of the product also acts as a repellent.
Q: How many times per year is Family Organics, LLC on my property?
A: Tick control = Usually 5 visits per year. We also offer monthly visits or a la carte.
Turf Healthcare = Usually 5 or 6 visits per year but we can offer a more individualized program based on your needs.