Core aerator and overseeding key to healthy lawn

    Fall lawn care is important if you want your yard to look its best next spring.
    Now is the time of year to get outside and get to work.
    Mark Burton, horticulturist for the Turf and Gardening Store in Roanoke, say a little effort will go a long way in making your neighbors "green with envy."
    Burton said the best way to do that is to get familiar with a core aerator.  The machines poke holes in your lawn which helps promote growth.  The "plugs" removed by a core aerator provide a contact point for new seeds to grow, relieves lawn compaction, and helps to remove thatch.  

    The next step is to overseed and fertilize.  
    "This is the best window of opportunity to grow seed, particularly fescues, in our area," said Burton.  "I believe it's the best cultural process you can do to a lawn after mowing."
    
    For more information on the use of core aearators and overseeding take a look at the video clips from News 7 Mornin'.  Special thanks Northwest Hardware for use of the "Plugger" for this demonstration.

    The Turf and Gardening Store has a free clinic coming up on Saturday, September 24 at 10 a.m.
    The topic is "Deer Resistant Plants and Strategies."  The discussion will be led by Paul Westervelt ,head grower,  from Saunders Brothers.
    All workshops at The Turf and Gardening Store are free, but call ahead for reserved seating (540) 343-2428.
    The location is 101 Madison Ave., NW Roanoke, VA 24016.