Core Aeration   This is the removal of cores of soil from existing lawns. Aerating is similar to cultivating a garden or flower bed. Cores of soil, approximately 5/8 inch in diameter and 2 to 4 inches long, are pulled from the soil by a core aeration machine. The cores are allowed to remain on top of the lawn. The soil disintegrates, topdressing the lawn with soil.

        Benefits of Core Aeration

• Removal of soil cores increases penetration of water, air, and nutrients into the soil.
• Loosening the soil encourages root growth.
• Soil fungi and bacteria are released when the soil disintegrates. These organisms help degrade thatch. Core aeration will not solve extremely severe thatch buildup. However, aeration is a biannual (spring & fall) practice which will help maintain the overall health and vigor of lawns.

Trees   Spring is an excellent time to deep-root feed all trees, including multi-trunk ornamentals, such as crepe myrtles and wax-leaf ligustrum. These nutrients will promote hardy blooms and lush foliage.

Shrubs   It is best to prune shrubs, such as azaleas, Indian hawthorn, and cameilias after they have bloomed. Roses should be pruned back. Give planting beds a fresh start by a thorough clean-out of leaves and foliage. Mulch and feed shrubs early in the year before new growth begins.

Ground Cover   Liriope should be cleaned of undesirable growth and pruned back regularly.

Color   After freezing has diminished, annuals such as begonias, geraniums, and impatians may be planted. Perennials like hibiscus, lantana, and Mexican heather need to be cut back or replaced if damaged by cold weather.