Yard Fertilization and Weed Management in Wichita KS

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Soil is the foundation of your plants, garden, lawn and landscape. It provides the nutrients they need to grow and also holds everything together. Healthy soil is teeming with life: thousands of different kinds of microscopic organisms called fungi, which are essential to breaking down organic matter in the soil. There are lots of different ways that you can improve your soil to make it more hospitable for plant growth and prevent weeds from taking hold. Fertilization is one way you can add nutrients to your soil. When used appropriately, it can help kickstart a dormant garden or rejuvenate an existing one. It is also very important for the health of your yard to effectively manage weeds and pests. We are experts in Fertilization & Weed Management in Wichita!

Fertilization in a Nutshell

Plants need nutrients to grow. This is the reason why you need to fertilize your lawn, garden or indoor plants. Fertilizers can be natural or synthetic and come in many different forms, including granules, liquids, pastes, and powders. Regardless of the form it takes, fertilizers are all made up of nutrients that plants need to grow and thrive. There are many different types of fertilizers available, and each has different uses and benefits. When fertilizing your plants, you can use either a liquid concentrate or a granular formulation. Both can be used in several different ways, depending on the plant you are trying to fertilize, the time of year it is, and your personal preferences.

The Benefits of Fertilization

Controls Weeds - Fertilizers are especially effective at controlling broadleaf weeds. They contain a variety of nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which are essential for all plant growth. Fertilizers also contain a mixture of other chemicals, such as potassium, sulfur and nitrogen, that are too small to be detected by plants. These smaller chemicals are called micronutrients. Micronutrients are what give fertilizer its green color and are what the soil lacks. They also give plants a boost, helping them grow and thrive better than soil-bound plants would. Fertilizers work best when they contain both large and small chemicals. Together, they give plants everything they need to thrive, so they are great for preventing weed growth.
Promotes Stronger Roots - Most fertilizers contain potassium, which helps promote stronger roots. This is particularly helpful in spring, when the soil is still dormant and the plant roots are seeking out nutrients. When the soil is lacking in potassium, it cannot be absorbed by the plant, so it cannot be used by the roots. By adding soil amendments high in potassium, the plant will have an easier time absorbing it and using it to grow strong roots. Most fertilizer companies sell soil amendments high in potassium, which can be used to promote stronger roots.
Increased Growth - As plants grow, they produce an increased amount of oxygen. Fertilizers are particularly beneficial for this reason. As plants grow and produce more oxygen, they tend to stay healthier. This means that your plants will grow faster and will stay healthier for longer. Furthermore, oxygen is a key factor in the metabolism of nutrients. So, as plants receive more oxygen, they tend to absorb nutrients more efficiently. If you are looking to increase the growth of your plants, adding nutrients is a good way to do so.
Balancing Soil Conditions - Fertilizers that contain potassium and other essential elements such as calcium and magnesium help to keep the soil in check and prevent it from becoming too alkaline or too acidic. In an ideal situation, you want to have soil that is slightly alkaline, with a pH between 7.0 and 7.9. A soil that is too acidic can cause problems like poor root growth, reduced crop yields, and the development of soil-borne diseases. To keep your soil in check and ensure that it has the right balance of elements, you can add potassium-rich fertilizers like manure or wood ash.

Fertilizer for Lawns & Gardens in Wichita, Kansas

Fertilizing your lawn and garden is a crucial step in maintaining a lush, healthy landscape. The method you choose to fertilize will depend on various factors including the type of grass or plants, mowing frequency, and the local climate conditions, which are particularly pertinent for residents of Wichita, Kansas.

Understanding Wichita's Climate and Soil

Wichita experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall. This climate significantly impacts the types of grass and plants that thrive in the region. Wichita’s soils are typically clay-heavy, which affects drainage and nutrient availability. Clay soils tend to retain water and can become compacted, making it challenging for roots to penetrate. Therefore, proper aeration and the right type of fertilizer are essential for optimal lawn and garden health.

Types of Fertilizers

1. Granular Fertilizer

Slow-Release: Slow-release fertilizers gradually provide nutrients over an extended period, reducing the frequency of application. This type is particularly beneficial in Wichita’s hot summers as it prevents nutrient leaching and minimizes the risk of burning the lawn. It also ensures a steady supply of nutrients, promoting consistent growth.

Quick-Release: Quick-release fertilizers dissolve rapidly, providing immediate nutrients to the lawn or garden. They are useful for addressing immediate nutrient deficiencies or giving a quick boost during the early growing season. However, they require more frequent applications and carry a higher risk of nutrient runoff and lawn burn if not applied carefully.

2. Liquid Fertilizer

Liquid fertilizers are typically mixed with water and applied using a hose-end sprayer or watering can. They offer quick nutrient absorption, making them ideal for foliar feeding—where nutrients are absorbed through the leaves. This method is excellent for providing a rapid response to nutrient deficiencies or giving a quick boost during critical growth periods.

3. Organic Fertilizer

Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources such as compost, manure, bone meal, and other organic matter. These fertilizers improve soil structure, increase microbial activity, and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients. They are especially beneficial for long-term soil health and sustainability, gradually enhancing the clay-heavy soils typical of Wichita. While the nutrient content in organic fertilizers is lower compared to synthetic options, their benefits to soil health make them a valuable choice.

4. Synthetic Fertilizer

Synthetic fertilizers are chemically formulated to provide precise ratios of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These fertilizers offer a targeted approach to meet the specific needs of your lawn or garden. For instance, a high-nitrogen fertilizer is ideal for promoting lush, green growth, while a higher phosphorus content supports strong root development and flowering. Synthetic fertilizers are highly effective and can be tailored to address specific nutrient deficiencies identified through soil testing.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer

The selection of fertilizer depends on the grass type and specific needs of your garden plants:

Cool-Season Grasses (e.g., Kentucky Bluegrass, Tall Fescue):

Cool-season grasses benefit from a higher nitrogen content, particularly in the fall, to promote root growth and prepare for winter dormancy. An N-P-K ratio such as 20-5-10 (high nitrogen, moderate phosphorus, and low potassium) is ideal. These grasses also require a balanced nutrient application in early spring to encourage green-up without excessive top growth.

Warm-Season Grasses (e.g., Bermuda, Zoysia):

Fertilize warm-season grasses in late spring and summer when they are actively growing. A balanced N-P-K ratio like 16-4-8 helps promote robust growth and resilience against Wichita’s summer heat. Warm-season grasses also benefit from slow-release fertilizers that provide a steady nutrient supply during their peak growing season.

Garden Plants:

Flowering plants often require higher phosphorus levels to encourage blooming. An N-P-K ratio of 10-20-10 is effective for promoting vibrant flowers. Vegetables, on the other hand, typically need a balanced nutrient mix with a slight emphasis on potassium for overall plant health and fruit development. An N-P-K ratio of 10-10-20 is suitable for most vegetable gardens.

Application Techniques

1. Broadcast Spreading

Broadcast spreading involves spreading granular fertilizer evenly over the lawn using a broadcast spreader. This method is suitable for large areas and ensures even coverage, preventing over-application in one spot which can lead to fertilizer burn.

2. Drop Spreading

Drop spreaders release fertilizer directly beneath the spreader, providing precise application. This method is ideal for smaller lawns or areas where precise control is needed to avoid over-fertilization. It’s particularly useful for applying fertilizer near garden beds, walkways, and other sensitive areas.

3. Liquid Application

Liquid fertilizers can be applied using a hose-end sprayer or a watering can. This method is quick and allows for even distribution, particularly useful for foliar feeding where nutrients are absorbed through the leaves. Liquid applications are also beneficial for spot treatments or providing a rapid nutrient boost.

4. Spot Treatment

For specific problem areas or plants showing signs of nutrient deficiency, spot treatment using a handheld spreader or sprayer can target fertilizer application precisely where it’s needed most. This method is efficient for addressing localized issues without affecting the entire lawn or garden.

Fertilization Schedule for Wichita

Creating a fertilization schedule tailored to Wichita’s climate is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn and garden:

Early Spring (March-April)

Apply a balanced fertilizer to cool-season grasses to encourage green-up and root development. Avoid over-fertilizing warm-season grasses as they are still dormant during this period. A slow-release fertilizer is ideal to provide nutrients gradually as the grass begins to grow.

Late Spring (May-June)

As temperatures rise, apply a slow-release fertilizer to warm-season grasses to support vigorous growth. For cool-season grasses, use a balanced fertilizer to sustain growth through the summer. Ensure that the fertilizer provides adequate nitrogen to support the rapid growth phase.

Summer (July-August)

Reduce fertilization frequency for cool-season grasses to avoid stress during the hottest months. Continue fertilizing warm-season grasses with a balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Consider using a slow-release formula to minimize the risk of fertilizer burn during high temperatures.

Early Fall (September-October)

This is a critical time for cool-season grasses. Apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote recovery from summer stress and prepare for winter. Warm-season grasses can receive a final application of a balanced fertilizer to support root development before dormancy.

Late Fall (November)

Apply a winterizer fertilizer to cool-season grasses to enhance root growth and nutrient storage for the winter months. Winterizers typically have higher potassium content to improve cold tolerance and disease resistance. Warm-season grasses do not need fertilization as they enter dormancy.

Special Considerations

Soil Testing:

Conducting a soil test every 2-3 years is crucial to determine nutrient levels and soil pH. Soil tests help tailor your fertilization plan to the specific needs of your soil, ensuring optimal nutrient availability. Local extension services or garden centers can provide soil testing kits and interpretation of results.

Watering Practices

Proper watering is essential for fertilizer effectiveness. In Wichita’s climate, water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and ensure deep soil penetration. This practice helps prevent fungal growth and promotes healthy root development. Aim for deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root systems and reduce water runoff.

Mowing Practices

Mow your lawn at the correct height for your grass type. Cool-season grasses should be kept at 2.5 to 3.5 inches, while warm-season grasses thrive at 1 to 2 inches. Regular mowing encourages denser growth and helps reduce weeds. Additionally, avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day to prevent stress on the grass.

Weed and Pest Control

Integrated pest management (IPM) practices should be used in conjunction with fertilization. Healthy, well-fertilized lawns are more resistant to weeds and pests, but spot treatments may still be necessary. Regular monitoring and early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

Maintaining a vibrant and healthy lawn and garden in Wichita, Kansas, requires understanding the unique climate and soil conditions of the area. By choosing the right type of fertilizer and applying it at the appropriate times, you can ensure that your landscape remains lush and green throughout the year. Regular soil testing, proper watering, and mowing practices will further enhance the effectiveness of your fertilization efforts. With careful planning and attention to detail, your lawn and garden can thrive in the heart of Kansas. Lawn 316 is well versed in exactly how to meet the needs of your lawn.

Weed Management Strategies for Soil Improvement

When fertilizing, it is important to keep in mind the types of weeds you are trying to control. It is important to know the difference between broadleaf weeds and grass weeds, as the way you put together your weed management strategy will depend on this information. Below are just a few strategies, out of dozens. Every yard is different and every homeowner has a different goal.

Broadleaf weeds, such as bindweed, sowthistle, Horsenettle and plantain, are weeds that are hard to get rid of and will require longer-term strategies. Effective broadleaf weed control will require a lot of patience and effort. If you want to get rid of these types of weeds, you will need to dig up the turf and replace it with a more suitable type of soil. You will also need to regularly apply a lawn fertilizer/weed control product to keep these weeds at bay.
Grass Weeds - These are relatively easy to get rid of and are usually a result of over-fertilization. Once you have identified the type of grass weed you are struggling with, you will need to come up with a quick, efficient solution.
Turf Weeds - These are usually a result of poor soil management and will require more extensive soil improvement measures. You will need to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter and then reseed it with a new type of grass.

Weed management helps to keep your yard looking nice and tidy all season long. By regularly weeding your yard, you’ll prevent unwanted weeds from taking root and, in turn, keep your landscape looking tidy all year long. Regularly mowing your lawn also prevents unwanted weeds from taking root, and it’s often easier to maintain a neat, manicured appearance with a mowed lawn. However, mowing your lawn can leave behind debris, such as clippings, that can act as a fertile ground for unwanted weeds. Weed management is a great way to avoid this problem. It’s a lot easier to maintain a neat, manicured appearance with a neatly weeded lawn. And, it’s also a lot easier to keep unwanted weeds from taking root with a weed-free lawn.

How to add nutrients to soil

If you are not already feeding your soil, the next step is to get feeding it! There are many different ways to add nutrients to your soil, from regular composting to using chemical lawn fertilizers.

Regular Composting - This is the best and most effective way to add nutrients to your soil. It happens when you let go of kitchen scraps and other organic material, which are essentially broken-down bits of plants.
Lawn Fertilizer Application - This type of soil protection is a good option, but it does come with a trade-off. The good thing about most lawn fertilizer is that it is a quick-acting and highly- concentrated, quick-release source of nitrogen.
Organic Amendments - Finally, you can also use an organic fertilizer, such as a soil amendment, which contains all of the essential elements and minerals that your soil might need.

Ideally, you are best served by hiring Lawn 316 because we can handle all of your yard maintenance, fertilization, weed control and pest management at a price that is fair and very affordable.

Tillage and root growth (Cultivation)

Tillage, or cultivating, is the process of moving soil and turning it over with a rake or a plow. This aerates your soil, allowing air and water to get to the roots of your plants, as well as allowing weed seeds to germinate. As well as being beneficial to the health and vigor of your plants, cultivation increases root growth, which is especially helpful in a season with a long and difficult growing season. In other words, if it is a particularly dry or hot summer, cultivating your soil can provide an extra source of nutrients, which will help your plants survive the heat. The main advantage to cultivation over fertilizer is that it allows the beneficial microorganisms in your soil to flourish, releasing nutrients and breaking them down so they can be used by your plants.

More information on Weeds in your yard

Weeds can quickly turn your beautiful lawn into a messy, unsightly mess. That’s why you should hire a reliable landscaping company to remove weeds from your yard. A professional can use a weed eater, string trimmer, or weed whacker to remove weeds. The best landscaping services will make sure the weeding is done carefully. They should also use a broad-spectrum herbicide to kill any weed seeds. There are many types of weeds that you might have in your yard. Some are very common while others are quite rare. There are many different ways to remove weeds from your yard. Some are better than others, depending on what type of weed you have. If you have a weed problem in your yard, it’s a good idea to try different removal methods to find what works best for your situation. Different weeds require different removal methods. Some weeds, like dandelions, are easy to pull out, while others, like Canada thistle, are much harder.

Most small weeding services are including in our weekly yard maintenance plans but if you have a single large project you need handled, we can do that as well.

Types of Weeds in Wichita

We all hate weeds, they ruin our yard, look horrible and make it more difficult to enjoy our yards. Hiring a professional yard maintenance company for weed removal and management is a smart choice as it will help you maintain your yard and landscape. The landscape maintenance company will have weed control equipment that can be used to eliminate weeds from your yard. The weed control equipment will be able to eliminate weeds from soil, turf, sidewalks, driveways, and other locations in your landscape. Keeping your landscape maintained will ensure that it does not become an eyesore and that it lasts as long as possible.

Here are the 5 most common weeds in Wichita. (keep in mind, it would be an extensive list if we provided them all - but we can help you remove and keep away ALL of them found in your yard)

Dandelions are a type of common weed that grow in lawns, gardens, and other areas all over the world. They have long, white taproots and yellow flower stems. The flowers of a dandelion are very different from those of other types of flowers. They are very simple and don’t have petals. Instead, they have long, thread-like “pennants.” Dandelions are edible and can be used in many different ways, such as in salads or as tea. They have been used in medicine for thousands of years. Dandelions are originally from Eurasia, but they are now found all over the world. They are easily found in most places, and they can be found in most of the United States, Canada, and many other countries across the globe. Best way to remove? Weed by definition is a plant that is unwanted and unwelcome, so it’s best to go after them early before they become a problem. Dandelions are generally easy to get rid of. Pulling them up by the roots is the best way to get rid of them for good. Rinsing the Dandelion roots out of your lawn with a hose or a garden sprayer will also get rid of them. Do not let the roots sit in the soil, as they will eventually sprout new flowers. Another way to get rid of Dandelions is to dig them up and toss them into a compost pile. You can also sprinkle them with a bit of diatomaceous earth, which is a fine powder that will kill the roots of Dandelions.
Nutsedge is a type of weed that is commonly found in lawns and gardens. It is a non-native plant species that is native to Europe and Asia; however, it has been planted in most parts of the world over the years. It is a perennial plant that is found in the wild as well as in gardens. It is a plant that grows in the shade and can form thick clumps that can be difficult to pull out. It is a weed that can grow anywhere - in soil, in concrete, in mulch, and so on. It is a weed that is difficult to control. Best way to remove? Nutsedges can be killed through a variety of methods. You can dig them up and repot them or you can simply cut them back. You can also apply a variety of chemicals to kill them, however, be sure to research the safety of the chemical you are using before using it on your lawn. There are also a few things you can do to make your lawn less welcoming to nutsedges. These include trimming them back, watering them less, and working on soil amendments.
Crabgrass is a common weed that grows in lawns and gardens around the world. It is usually found in areas that don’t get enough sunlight or where there is too much moisture. Most importantly, it thrives in soils that are too fertile. You can identify it by its long, green stem and its small, yellow flowers. There are two main types of crabgrass – smooth and rough. Smooth crabgrass has smooth leaves, while rough crabgrass has hairy leaves. Most people think of crabgrass when they see an area of their lawn or garden that looks shaggy and unkempt. Besides looking bad, crabgrass can cause other problems like infestation by insects, allergies, and poor soil quality and can cause damage to things like your home's foundation. Best way to remove? Crabgrass can be a difficult weed to get rid of, as it has deep roots that can grow down several inches into the soil. To succeed, you will need to take a few steps, including proper timing, proper preparation, and proper methods. Proper timing is key, as crabgrass will grow back quickly. If you notice that you have an infestation in the spring, you will need to act quickly. Most experts recommend that you should remove crabgrass early in the morning when the weed is weakest. Proper preparation is also essential. If you are trying to remove crabgrass from your lawn, you will need to make sure that your lawn is healthy and ready. You will also want to make sure that your lawn has received proper nutrients and has been cut short.
Broadleaf plantain is a common weed that often makes its way into your yard from nearby properties. This weed can grow up to 4 feet in height and often sprouts up in vacant lots or other open patches of land. This plant can be a persistent weed in certain areas, and it often grows back year after year due to its hardiness and difficult cultivation. Broadleaf plantain is not a dangerous weed, but it can cause issues if it takes root in your lawn. This weed often sprouts up in vacant lots or other open patches of land. It can be a persistent weed in certain areas, and it often grows back year after year due to its hardiness and difficult cultivation. It is a common weed that can be found growing in lawns, fields, and gardens throughout the United States. Most people are familiar with broadleaf plantain because of its appearance, which is often compared to that of a horse’s tongue, and its strong, unpleasant flavor. Broadleaf plantain is different from most other weeds in that it is considered a “pest plant” and is regulated by state governments as a noxious weed. Broadleaf plantain seeds are small, white, and round. They are often mistaken for tiny poppy seeds. Best way to remove? There are many ways to remove broadleaf plantain from your yard. You can dig up the plant and throw it away, or you can compost it. You can also chop the plant down and dispose of the pieces in the trash. If you choose to compost broadleaf plantain, be sure to compost it in an area that is away from other food sources. Your best option is to treat broadleaf plantain like any other perennial weed in your garden. If you have broadleaf plantain in your lawn, you can treat it like a perennial grass and cut it down. You can also dig up the plant and dispose of the pieces. If you have broadleaf plantain in your flower beds, you can remove it by hoeing or digging.
Clover is a common weed that grows in lawns and gardens. It is a perennial weed that grows up to two feet tall. It has slender stems that are light green in color. It has small greenish flowers that bloom in the summer. Clover grows best in soil that is on the acidic side. It grows fast and can be a nuisance when it grows in large quantities. Best way to remove? Depending on the extent of the weed problem, it can be best to remove the root source of the weed by digging out the clover with a shovel or hoe. Once the clover is removed, apply a pre-emergent herbicide to kill any remaining seeds. Herbicides that target clover can be applied as a spray, or as a seed treatment. The best time for herbicide applications is in the early spring, when the weed is actively growing. At this time, the herbicide will be most effective.

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Lawn 316 | Reliable, Fair Pricing, Happy Clients

Lawn 316 | Reliable, Fair Pricing, Happy Clients

Fertilization and Weed Management