Re: {OT} Lawn Care

"mark_digital" <xxx976@comcast.com> wrote in message
news:urmdncKlKLuGVd_ZRVn-qQ@comcast.com...[color=blue]
> This may sound like a silly question but have to ask it. Does raking
> stimulate grass to grow? I'm aware that a gentle raking is good because it
> may remove thatch buildup.
> I'm considering using bonemeal this season, for the first time. Will it do
> any good to lightly apply it without disturbing the ground?
> Lastly, is there a natural inhibitor for dandelions? I'd rather avoid
> chemicals. I screwed up my lawn last year big time and don't want a
> repeat.
>[/color]
I am certainly not an expert on lawn care but I'll share what I know:

Some thatch is good because it helps retain moisture in the soil. Too much
thatch is bad because it can prevent moisture from reaching the soil.

If the ground is very hard, moisture may not penetrate the hard crust so
raking it may help.

My guess on the bonemeal would be to thoroughly wet the ground so it doesn't
blow away when applied. Of course, you can just follow the directions on
the package ;-)

A friend used to say that his father-in-law placed manure in a spreader and
that he always had a very green lawn and it also kept neighbors and visitors
away for a few weeks.

I am not aware of a natural inhibitor for dandelions. Many weed killers
work only on broadleaf plants and are most effective when applied early in
the season. You can also try a commercial lawn treatment service but if you
ever decide to discontinue the service, they are pretty bad about hounding
you to get your business back.

--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)