In this episode of Plant Doctor with Mike Meier, Mike delves into the nuances of fall lawn care, offering expert advice on mowing, fertilizing, and preparing your garden for the colder months. He emphasizes the importance of adjusting your lawn mower to the appropriate height for fall and discusses the benefits of dormant fertilization, explaining how it helps plants build strong root systems to withstand winter stressors.
Mike also addresses listener questions, providing guidance on lawn aeration and the use of pesticides, particularly for ant control. He highlights the ecological benefits of ants and suggests using Seven for spot treatment if necessary. The conversation takes a detour into the world of pesticides, where Mike discusses the controversies surrounding certain chemicals and their perceived dangers.
Listeners are treated to practical tips on transplanting small trees like plum trees and rhubarb, with Mike advising on planting depths and the importance of avoiding nitrogen fertilizers during this period. He also covers the intriguing phenomenon of lilac bushes blooming out of season and the common fungal issues affecting crabapple trees, offering solutions to manage these challenges effectively.
Whether you're wondering about the best time to fertilize your lawn, how to manage unexpected plant growth, or the intricacies of tree transplantation, this episode is packed with valuable insights and Mike's signature expertise. Join the conversation and get your gardening questions answered with a dash of humor and a wealth of knowledge.