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Renovation
Full or partial turf renovation are the most cost-effective choices when a lawn has less than fifty percent of its area still alive.
When renovation is necessary the first step is to kill all vegetation with a chemical such as Glyphosate (Roundup®) applied at the recommended rate to grass and weeds.
After a 7 to 10 day period use a dethatcher or power rake to take up any more than one-half inch of thatch from the killed-off area. Perforate the soil with a core-type aerator and then apply a good starter fertilizer.
Removing the dead vegetation is the only option in some cases. However, if the old lawn is thin enough, it is often better to simply overseed the dead plant material rather than take it down to bare dirt. Leaving the old grass takes less time and labor and leaves cover to hold moisture and protect the seedbed from erosion. This approach also helps avoid the problem of green waste disposal.
Now the new lawn can be seeded by broadcasting, hydroseeding or using a slit seeder.

Complete Replacement
If lawn or turf has died out completely or has deteriorated due to poor soil structure or lack of organic material to less than fifty percent coverage, it is time to replace the entire lawn.
The old turf may be killed off or not. Using a sod cutter, remove at least two inches of the underlying soil with the grass. Once the area is down to bare ground check the irrigation system to verify that coverage is accurate and adequate and replace any broken or deteriorated parts. Any leveling or contouring of the plot can be done as well.
Further soil analysis may be called for to correct conditions that hinder the start of a healthy new planting.
Rototill and condition the soil by adding amendments and a good starter fertilizer before planting. Use standard methods for seeding and watering.

Some Smart Options
At this point options are open as to what kind of planting will be the best as a replacement for the old turf. An improved grass cultivar can be a logical replacement. However, another type of ground cover would be preferable for drought tolerance or if a different appearance is important.
S&S Seeds has a number of ground cover substitutes and xeriscape blends such as Zoyosia Japonica or Birdsfoot Trefoil—good alternatives to grasses. All can stand foot traffic and several are rated for heavy traffic.
A new drought-tolerant planting can be very cost effective when the rising price of water in many parts of California is taken into account.
Saving money for your clients on landscaping water needs is good business. Albright can help you analyze your client's needs and offer innovative options. Give the Albright Seed Company consultants a call today. 1-(805) 684-0436

Elite Turfgrass Seed Mixture Elite Turfgrass Seed Mixture A unique blend of Turf Type Perennial Ryegrass and two other top-performing perennial ryegrasses —Fast Track— is perfect for athletic fields, lawns and golf courses. This beautiful, dark green turf has excellent insect and disease resistance, heat and drought tolerance. Available from S&S Seeds Online Store. For more information, please call 1-(805) 684-0436 or e-mail paul@albrightseed.com. A quality product of S & S Seeds, Inc.

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