Some abiotic factors are preventable and others are not. The good news is that most abiotic factors are curable. If your lawn is suffering from one of the abiotic factors below, there is hope for your lawn. Since each factor requires a different cure, we have broken down the most common abiotic conditions found in eastern Iowa lawns. Our suggestions should assist you in helping your lawn recover.
Some common abiotic factors found in lawns.
Compaction– Compaction can be reduced by core aerating your turf grass. Core aeration removes a 2” to 3” plug of soil and sod which allows the ground to settle in the hole that was created. Depending on how much traffic an area receives, it might be necessary to replant with a compaction-tolerant species such as perennial ryegrass.
Dog Spots or Salt Damage– Flush the damaged area with water to help remove some of the salts in the soil. It might be necessary to re-seed or remove some of the existing contaminated soil.
Drought- Making sure that your grass receives at least 1” to 1 ½” of moisture a week is key to diminishing drought in your turf grass.
Dull Mower Blades– Commercial cutters such as ourselves changes our mower blades at least twice a day due to the amount of time cutting a lawn. Home owners should sharpen their blades approximately every three hours of operation.
Fertilizer or Chemical Burns- Proper inspection of application equipment will reduce the risk of a misapplication. Proper calibration of equipment and applying the correct chemical will also reduce the risk of chemical burns.
Nutrient Deficiencies- Once you have tested your soil, it is now possible to see if your turf grass is lacking any nutrients. Soils amendments based on soil sample results will help give your lawn the correct food that it needs flourish.
Over Watering- Water your lawn only when needed. Watch out for lawn pooling to cut down on standing water.
Shade- Thin trees and shrubs to allow more sunlight to reach the turf grass.
Thatch- Dethatching or core aeration will reduce the thatch level in your lawn and help restore a healthy layer.