Fall lawn care

Step 1

Raise your mower about ½ inch so that the cut is about 1 ½ inches long. And don't worry, since the temperature is beginning to fall, you won't be required to cut the grass more frequently.

Step 2

People tend to take the same route to garage or swimming pool and, over time, they make a path. That wear is the result of the soil being compacted. Since your grass needs more air and its roots need greater access to rain, drive the tines of a pitchfork about 5 to 6 inches into the ground.

Step 3

Reseed your lawn where grass is sparse or non-existent. Rather than simply pouring grass seed into the affected areas, first create a seedbed by spreading a thin layer of topsoil that's available at any garden store. Rake the area gently with a garden rake, then apply grass seed according to the directions. Compress the seed with the backside of the rake for good seed contact with the soil. Don't mow the area until spring, as its updraft will disturb the seed.

Step 4

Fertilize your lawn in the early fall. Lawn fertilizers contain slow-release or controlled-release nitrogen. These fertilizers stimulate uniform growth over a period of time and are less likely to burn the grass. However, you can use a fast-release fertilizer.

PLANTING BULBS

Step 1

Choose the perfect spot for your flower bulbs. Because the sun is weaker in the spring, find a spot that will not be shaded from trees or buildings. The heat from the house may damage the bulbs. The flowers are short lived, so you don't want to plant them in the backyard if you don't go to the backyard in spring.

Step 2

Plant the bulbs after the first frost. Garden centers have bulb planters that are great for getting the correct depth for the bulb. Most large bulbs are planted around eight inches deep and six inches apart, smaller bulbs around five inches deep and three inches apart. Packaging on the bulbs will tell specifically how deep and far apart to plant. Bulbs do not need fertilizer, but a bulb releasing food is good. Avoid using bone meal because it attracts some animals.

Step 3

Choose your bulbs carefully. A healthy bulb will be firm and clean.

Step 4

Take care of the bulbs in the spring. After the flowers have bloomed, cut back the stalk to ground level. Don't remove the bulb. The plant will now nourish itself for the following year.