THE VILLAGE REPORTER

T H E WAU S E O N R E P O R T E R

April 2013

FARM Safety

LAWN Garden

&

Spring Planting

2 Spring Farm Safety/Lawn & Garden/ Planting

Wednesday, April 24th, 2013

Dig A Little, Learn A Lot How To Prevent Soil Erosion

As temperatures finally go UP this spring, take a minute to look DOWN at the ground and investigate the SOIL. What does the soil look like? How does the soil feel? Does rain sink into the ground quickly? Answering these questions during planting can pay off later during harvest. It doesnt matter what kind of landowner you are - a small farmer, large farmer, organic grower or even homeowners and gardeners - you can easily examine your soils. Take a quick look and you can learn a lot, says State Agronomist Mark Scarpitti. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the conservation arm of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, launched Unlock the Secrets of the Soil in an effort to focus attention on soil health. According to State Conservationist Terry Cosby, Prime farmland makes up 73 percent of Ohios 11 million acres of cropland. Thats a heck of a lot of good agricultural land and a huge responsibility. The well-being of future Ohioans hinges on how well we protect and improve the foundation of agriculture, healthy soil. To start a soil health assessment, youll need your eyes, your nose, your hands, and a garden spade or shovel. LOOKLook for plant residue or a living plant canopy or cover. Dig a hole and look at the soil structure. Healthy soil looks like chocolate cake with lots of air holes and organic matter. And of course you should see earthwormsour wonderful soil engineers! SMELLHealthy soil has the distinct sweet, earthy aroma of geosmin, a by-product of soil microbes called actinomycetes. TOUCH--Soil should crumble easily exposing long straight plant roots. Long roots reach nutrients and water they need to grow to produce the food we love to eat. Why should we care about soil health? Cosby explains that healthy soil actually has a direct impact on many larger issues that affect life as we know it. Healthy soil can improve and regulate water, sustain plant and animal life, filter pollutants, cycle nutrients, and support buildings. Healthy soils hold more water, Homeowners who spend time tending to their landscape are increasingly looking eco-friendly ways to maintain their lawns and gardens. Homeowners who once relied on potentially harmful pesticides to craft a lush lawn now prefer ways that dont leave such a significant carbon footprint. Preventing soil erosion is one way to incorporate conservation into lawn and garden care. Conservation is one of many environmental practices aimed at preserving the planets natural resources, which include soil. Preventing soil erosion is easy and can be accomplished in a number of ways. DONT OVERWATER. Some may assume that keeping soil as damp as possible keeps it healthy. However, overwatering the soil can cause runoff that washes the soil away. Instead of overwatering, keep the soil moist but dont overdo it. If youre having trouble keeping soil moist, consider laying down some mulch, which helps retain moisture and deliver nutrients to the soil. PLANT TREES AND SHRUBS. Trees and shrubs are friends to soil, providing shelter while their roots keep the soil in place and prevent it from easily blowing away on a windy day. CREATE RUNOFF BARRIERS. Runoff barriers are edges that can be made of brick, stone or other materials that help reduce runoff. Many homeowners install runoff barriers along sidewalks and driveways to ensure the soil does not spill out onto the pavement. CONSIDER LEAVING SOME GRASS AROUND THE GARDEN. Many homeowners dont view their weekend gardening as farming, however, similar principles apply. One such principle is conservation tillage, which means leaving a portion of vegetation in the ground instead of stripping everything away before planting. For home gardeners, consider leaving a small amount of grass around the garden to keep the soil within the gardens boundaries.

CORN_IN_HEALTHY_SOIL ... The roots of crops grown in healthy soil reach deeper in the soil. Deep roots help plants survive drought conditions like last summer. which can make the difference between crop survival and failure during a drought. Healthy soils also resist runoff and erosion, naturally suppress weeds and pests, and sustain other natural resources. If your soil looks like it needs attention, give us a call. Conservation experts in every Ohio county can help you develop a soil health improvement plan and introduce you to conservation programs designed to off-set a portion of the cost of carrying out the plan, explains Cosby. Improving soil health takes time, so the sooner you start the process, the sooner youll reap the rewards provided by healthy soils. Remember, healthy soils produce healthy crops and a healthy environment. So grab a spade and dig a little. You can learn a lot! Visit http://www.nrcs.usda. gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/ soils/health/

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Entomologist Offers Guidance On Controlling Slugs in No-till Soybean, Corn Fields

for April on the feeding injury that gray garden slugs can cause to corn and soybean crops. OSU Extension and OARDC are the statewide outreach and research arms, respectively, of Ohio State Universitys College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. Hammonds presentations are designed to help growers and consultants in the Midwest, Eastern and Mid-Atlantic regions manage slug problems in field crops when using no-till production, organizers said. The presentations cover basic biology of slugs and how it relates to grower practices and an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to managing slug problems. The gray garden slug is the most damaging slug in field crops across the county, he said. Its also the No. 1 slug pest problem probably worldwide. And this is the one causing problems in corn and soybeans and other field crops, but especially soybeans. The majority of problems with the gray garden slug come at crop planting in the spring, Hammond said. That is when the eggs have hatched and the juvenile slug starts to grow and reaches a size to start heavy feeding. And if the crop is there, they start feeding on it, he said. And if the crop isnt there yet, theyll wait for the crop and feed on it. In Ohio, Hammond said, this tends to occur between early and late May. In soybean, for example, because its typically planted later in spring after corn and typically emerges after juveniles hatch, it is often fed on early in its growth stage, especially during germination, which can cause a complete stand loss before growers even realize they have a problem, he said. General IPM recommendations Hammond suggests include: Using tillage in those fields if possible. Planting fields with potential problems early. Using practices to encourage quicker growth such as row cleaners or strip tillage. Monitoring spring slug populations and injury and applying molluscicide when necessary. A video on sampling for slug eggs is available at http://go.osu.edu/slugeggs.

GRAY GARDEN SLUG ... The gray garden slug is the most damaging slug in field crops across the county, he said. Its also the No. 1 slug pest problem probably worldwide.

Crop growers should take extra precautions to scout their fields this spring for slugs to try to get control of these plant feeders before they attack corn and soybean plants and cause feeding injury, an Ohio State University Extension entomologist said. Ron Hammond, who also has an appointment with the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, offers his guidance in videos posted on the Plant Management Network, a nonprofit publisher of science-based crop management information for growers, consultants and other applied audiences. Hammond is a featured speaker

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Wednesday, April 24th, 2013

Spring Farm Safety/Lawn & Garden/ Planting 3

Planting Corn During Optimal Time One Key In Getting Corn Planting Off To Good Start
COLUMBUS, Ohio Growers who want to get their corn crop out to a good start this year should make sure they get it planted during the optimal corn planting time, which in some parts of Ohio typically starts as early this week, an Ohio State University Extension expert said. Getting corn planted in southern Ohio between April 10 and May 10 and in northern Ohio between April 15 and May 10 -- the optimal planting times for corn in Ohio -- is just one of several key measures growers can take to better ensure they avoid irreversible mistakes that could result in lower yield potential, said Peter Thomison, an OSU Extension agronomist. OSU Extension is the statewide outreach arm of Ohio State Universitys College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. We encourage planting at the recommended times because this is historically when you get the best yields, Thomison said. Planting later than these times historically has resulted in yield loss, in some cases a 30-bushel-per-acre reduction in yield. Growers historically could see a loss of a bushel to a bushel and a half in yield loss for each late planted day. But some growers may be hesitant to plant early this year based on experiences many growers had with planting delays and drought the past two years, he said. For example, wet weather conditions caused planting delays for many growers in 2011, but many were still able to produce good and, in some cases, better crops. And for some growers who planted early in 2012, their crops were at critical development stages when drought conditions were at their most severe, with numerous 100 degree or higher days in early July when crops were pollinating and at their most sensitive point, Thomison said. That compares to growers who, because of planting delays, got their crops in later and had better crops. As a result, some growers may be a little gun shy at planting early this year or may be more careful and not plant as early as they typically would because of what happened the last two years, he said. Its human nature to reflect on whats transpired in the past couple of years versus the historical perspective because of concerns many may have that were experiencing more weather extremes. But the generic recommendations are that if growers have fields that have good soil conditions, are dry and suitable for planting, with warming temperatures over the next week to 10 days, it behooves them to start planting, Thomison said. Mistakes made during crop establishment are usually irreversible and can put a ceiling on a crops yield potential before the plants have even emerged, he said. Following these recommendations can help growers minimize their risk. In addition to planting at the proper time, Thomison said growers can minimize risk by: Performing tillage operations only when necessary and under the right soil conditions. It is important to avoid working with wet soil and to reduce secondary tillage passes which could cause shallow compaction and reduce crop yields. The best time of year for a deeper tillage is during the late summer and into fall on dry soil, and only when a compacted zone has been identified. Adjusting seeding depth according to soil conditions. Corn should be planted between 1.5 to 2 inches deep, which provides protection against frost and allows for adequate root development. Seed depth should be adjusted for weather and soil conditions. Adjusting seeding rates by field. For example, high-yield potential sites with high soil-fertility levels and water-holding capac-

ity can benefit from higher seeding rates, while lower seeding rates work better with droughty soils or in late-planted crops. Planting a mix of early-, mid- and fullseason hybrids between fields, which reduces damage from diseases and environmental stress at different growths stages. Using this method also spreads out harvest time and workload. Planting full-season hybrids first, followed alternately with early-season and mid-season hybrids, which allows the lateseason hybrids to get the most benefit from maximum heat unit accumulation, Thomison said.

Soil Temperature & Moisture Are Crucial For Corn Emergence

to May 10. Another measurement is Growing Degree Days. Growing Degree Days are a measurement of the Soil temperature and moisture growth and development of plants are important factors in corn seed and insects during the growing seagermination and emergence. The son. Development does not occur at old rule of thumb for temperature is this time unless the temperature is when morning soil temperature at a above a minimum threshold value 2 inch soil depth is 50 F its time to of 50oF. Approximately 100 to 150 plant. Under ideal soil temperature Growing Degree Days are required for and moisture conditions corn should corn to emerge. In central Ohio that emerge in 7 to 10 days. Yield reduc- occurs around the end of April first tions resulting from mudding the of May. Realize corn germinates very seed in are often much greater than slowly when soil temperature is less those resulting from a slight planting than 50oF leading to uneven stands. delay. Planting before the soil tem- So usually after April 25 planting perature is warm enough for germi- when soil conditions allow is usually nation greatly increases the potential safe. After May 10 corn yields begin for stand failure. Note, soil tempera- to quickly decline. The latest practure can vary depending upon soil tical date to plant corn is June 15th texture, soil color, soil drainage and here in Northern Ohio which will resurface residue. sult in a 50% yield reduction. According to Dr. Peter Thomison, One of the many lessons learned Corn Specialist at Ohio State Univer- from the 2012 season was the imporsity the recommended time for plant- tance of waiting for soil temperature ing corn in northern Ohio is April 15 to reach 50oF before planting corn. BY FLORIAN CHIRRA EXTENSION EDUCATOR The abnormal, early warm weather in March in 2012 and higher than normal growing degree accumulations enticed some farmers to plant corn in early April, disregarding the soil temperature. This resulted in chilling injury to seeds and uneven emergence and stand loss. Planting depth is another important consideration in planting corn. Corn should be planted between 1-1/2 to 2 inches deep to provide for frost protection and adequate root development, according to Dr. Thomison. Seeding depth should be monitored regularly during the planting operation and adjusted for varying weather and soil conditions. Irregular, especially shallow planting depths contribute to uneven plant emergence, which can reduce yields. Mistakes made during crop establishment are usually irreversible, and can put a ceiling on a crops yield potential before the plants have even emerged.

Website Helps Teach Kids About Farm Safety

Challenges Facing Farmers Today & Tomorrow

Though farming was once big business in the United States, by 2012 less than 1 percent of Americans were professional farmers. Many challenges face todays farmers, many of which are largely unknown to the general public. Many people have an outdated view of a farm as a small, family-owned and operated parcel of land where livestock is raised in open pens and crops are hand-harvested when ripe. The reality is that modern-day farms have had to overhaul operations to meet demand and remain competitively priced while adapting to the ever-changing ways technology infiltrates all parts of life. Each of these factors present obstacles for todays farmers. TECHNOLOGY - Rural farming communities are expected to make an effort to integrate modern technology into an industry that has been around for centuries. But such a transition in rural areas, where communications systems may not be as up-to-date as those in urban areas, is not always so easy. DECREASE IN FARMING AS AN OCCUPATION - The United States Environmental Protection Agency says that only about 960,000 Americans claim farming as their principal occupation. As that figure has dwindled, the average age of farmers continues to rise, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that roughly 40 percent of the farmers in this country are 55 years old or older. This has led to concerns about the long-term health of family farms throughout the United States. ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS - Many farmers have come under scrutiny for how farming impacts the environment. A growing emphasis on sustainability and conservation has led many people to protest certain farming practices. Climate change is another environmental issue farmers must deal with. Strong storms and severe droughts have made farming even more challenging. FINANCIAL FALL-OUT - The ongoing recession of the last half-decade has also affected farmers. In November of 2012, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that the unemployment rate within the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting industries was at 13.6 percent,

Farm Safety For Just Kids has rebranded with a new website that features new resources. In addition to the new look, the distribution of materials has changed. Farm safety educational materials will be available to download as PDFs for free. As we looked at rebranding, we realized it was the perfect opportunity to also evaluate the delivery process of our materials, said Tracy Schlater, marketing director. Offering resources online eliminates two main obstacles of cost and convenience for the volunteers and teachers using our materials. Initially, resources for tractor, ATV, livestock, and chemical safety topics will be available online and more added in the future. Resources available include lesson plans, activities, background information, fact sheets, and Power Point presentations, among others. Chemical and ATV resources are available in both English and Spanish. In addition, one page fact sheets covering a variety of other topics will be available as well. Offering materials online goes a step further in advancing Farm Safety For Just Kids mission to protect rural farm youth and families by getting information out to more people. A supply of printed resources is still available. To order hard copy resources while supplies last, call 800-423-5437. Agriculture and farm safety have changed a lot over the past 25 years, said Tracy Schlater, marketing director. It was time for the organization to reflect that change. Visit farmsafetyforjustkids.org and check it out.

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4 Spring Farm Safety/Lawn & Garden/ Planting

Wednesday, April 24th, 2013

GARDENING TIP
Vegetable gardens make great additions to any home garden, but home gardeners should know that not all vegetables should be planted year-round. Vegetables vary as to their optimal growing conditions, which often hinge on climate. For example, tomatoes are popular among home gardeners. For the best tomatoes, the soil should be warm and the sun above should be hot. Some vegetables, however, actually prefer colder climates. Cauliflower often thrives with colder soil and steady rainfall. When planting vegetables in a home garden, homeowners should always consider seasonal changes. Such changes enable gardeners to have fresh vegetables almost year-round.

Cultivate Your Own Bounty Of Vegetables

It only makes sense to turn a little patch of your property into a personal supply of organic food. Quality and cost-control are the top reasons to do it -- and avid gardeners will tell you that there is a special kind of joy in planting, growing, picking and serving the freshest produce possible. Today, approximately 30 percent of residential homes in North America cultivate a vegetable patch and most will tell you that the growing season can be full of surprises. Sometimes, the winter will leave much more moisture in the ground than the year before, but other times, drought will hamper your harvest and so will heat, insects, weeds and plant disease. Insects and disease can be a serious problem when growing vegetables, says Reinie Drygala, Products Manager for PureSpray Green, a leading name in innovative garden products. If uncontrolled, they will destroy your prized collection of vegetables and flowers. The question is how do you effectively deal with these pests and still use a product that you can feel good about when it comes to your impact on the environment? Our researchers experimented tirelessly to produce a horticultural spray oil for year-round control of insects and disease, Drygala continued. The resulting PureSpray Green is an all-in-one formula for use in organic gardening and allows gardeners to feel good about spraying it on flowers, fruits, vegetables, shrubs and trees. The sister brand Clear Choice is also a breakthrough in herbicide technology for controlling weeds on lawns and walkways. Here are a few more quick tips to refresh your start-up skills in the vegetable patch: CLEAN UP: Clear your patch by removing grass, rocks, or other debris. TILL THE SOIL: Add at least 6 centimetres of new vegetable garden soil to provide nutrients, improve drainage, and to promote strong root growth.

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HELP CONTROL COST ... Planting your own vegetables can help you to make you grocery budget stretch a little further. PLANT AT THE RIGHT TIME: Early season vegetables include broccoli, carrots, lettuce, peas, and spinach. By early June, you can plant the warm-weather vegetables like corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. PREVENT WEEDS: Put a layer of mulch around the plants CONTROL PESTS AND DISEASE: keep an organicapproved spray handy for insect and disease control. Information at: www.todaysclearchoice.com. WATER: Keep seedlings moist by watering regularly. HARVEST: Your bounty should grow quickly from seedlings to a full harvest in less than 60 days.

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Can Pools & Lawns Cohabitate Peacefully?

The backyard has become a go-to destination for warm weather recreation. As the staycation has grown in popularity, more effort has been put forth in making the backyard a place where all members of the household can enjoy themselves. That means merging interests into one space. A pool may be competing for acreage along with a decorative patch of lawn. Some homeowners wonder if lawns and pools can be successful alongside each other. Many question if chlorinated pool water poses any ill effects on the grass in the backyard. In addition to splashout of water during fun times in the pool, water also will be tracked across the lawn from children and adults exiting the pool or will flood the grass when it is necessary to clean and backwash the filter. Will you be left with a dried-out patch of chlorine-burnt lawn? Probably not. Healthy chlorine levels in a pool are kept so that the pool water is generally on par with the chlorine levels contained in regular tap water. You wouldnt hesitate turning on the hose to water your lawn, so you shouldnt be overly concerned about pool water splashing out of the pool, particularly if you are stringent about maintaining the proper pH levels and chlorine levels. Also, soil can withstand chlorine at high acid levels and is pretty resilient about self-correcting. Furthermore, grass blades are selective about which nutrients they absorb, so excess chlorine likely will not penetrate the grass blades. Chlorine also dissipates in the sun. Therefore, while the levels may be elevated upon just hitting the grass, over a short while the chlorine will essentially be used up and pose no additional threat to the surrounding lawn. Some people have actually said that watering your lawn with pool water can be an eco-friendly way of curbing water usage. Therefore, it may be safely used on lawns and most flowering plants. It is unadvisable to water vegetable gardens with pool water because of any trace levels of other chemicals that may be found in the pool water.

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POOL WATER REFRESHING ... In most cases, pool water will not damage lawns because the chlorine level is not high enough. Homeowners still concerned about exposing their lawns to pool water can create a buffer zone around the pool. Inground pools are traditionally bordered by concrete or patio blocks. Place stone or mulch around the perimeter of an above-ground pool to catch any splashes and to create a barrier between the pool and the lawn. Also, direct backwashed water through a long tube and have it flow it to an area away from the lawn. Pool owners who want to have vibrant grass likely dont need to worry about chlorine damaging their lawns. In fact, the lawns may flourish with the extra watering.

SIGNS OF SPRING GARDEN TIME

*Gypsophila: Also known as babys breath, these delicate flowers can serve as filler in any landscape. Pink and white varieties are available. *Impatiens: One of the best-known plants for the garden, these annuals come in scores of colors and can generally tolerate full sun to full shade. *Larkspur: Belonging to the buttercup family, these flowers bloom in shades of white to violet. *Pansy: These flowers SPRING IS HERE ... Cher- are some of the earliest ry blossoms are one of the spring bloomers, arriving earlier signs spring has ar- alongside spring bulbs like rived. tulips. Few things are anticipated more in spring than the arrival of new leaves on the trees and budding flowers in the garden. A landscape awash with fresh colors can brighten the spirit and make anyone want to head outdoors. There are many different plants that begin to show their colors in the spring. A number of perennials, annuals and trees begin to flower or show new sprouts come the springtime. Here are some plants that can be planted for springtime enjoyment. ANNUALS Looking for first signs of color? Look no further than these wonderful annuals. *Alyssum: Starting in April, this cascading bounty of tiny flowers offers a sweet aroma that attracts butterflies. *Dianthus: These vivid flowers also attract butterflies and are often a cottage garden staple. *Petunias: Petunias put on a show of color through the entire season, making them a popular bedding flower. PERENNIALS These plants will come back year after year and offer spring shows. *Cherry blossom: The flowers that sprout on cherry trees are some of the first signs of spring. Their pink or white buds are often a spectacle, so much so that towns and cities hold cherry blossom festivals. *Columbine: These beautiful blooms attract butterflies and can be a nice part of a garden bed. *Jacobs ladder: Variegated foliage that is dappled with violet-colored flowers can add a sweet smell and visual interest to the garden. *Primrose: These flowers come in a variety of shades, making them versatile in any garden. They also tend to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. *Sweet violet: These fragrant flowers are edible as well as attractive. These plants can selfplant, so unless a gardener wants them to spread, they should be kept contained.

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Wednesday, April 24th, 2013

Spring Farm Safety/Lawn & Garden/ Planting 5

Lawn Renewal & Renovation Spring Turf Fertilizing Tips Tips To Create A Perfect Lawn
GARDENING EXPERT MELINDA MYERS SHARES SIMPLE STEPS FOR INVIGORATING LAWNS
ERIC RICHER EXTENSION EDUCATOR, OSU EXTENSION FULTON COUNTY Spring is the season many of us think about our lawns and landscape and begin to provide critical care to make sure they stay healthy throughout the summer. Were beginning to get the calls in the Extension office about how and when to fertilize lawns, so I want to identify two key fertilizing times for this spring. First of all, I want to review the 3 numbers that make up the fertilizer analysis on every bag of fertilizer that is sold. Those 3 numbers represent the percentage of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassiumor N, P and Kthat are present in the bag of fertilizer based on weight. You may see numbers like 15-15-15, 28-0-3 or 32-0-4, just to name a couple. For instance, a bag of 280-3 will have 28% nitrogen, 0% phosphorus and 3% potassium as K20. Though all three nutrients are important for healthy turf, nitrogen will cause the greatest response by visibly increasing the green. Because of this, some turf fertilizer recommendations are given based on pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of area. When fertilizing those lawns that have been established for at least one year or longer, the first application that can be made is in late March or April. Depending on when Easter falls, this application is sometimes referred to as the Easter application. We usually like to wait until the ground temperature is at least 45-50 degrees and the grass is just starting to green up. Another way to determine if this first application is being done at the right time is to coordinate the first lawn fertilizer application with the time when forsythias are blooming. Forsythias are the deciduous shrubs that have the brilliant yellow flowers first thing in the spring. Forsythia is Mother Natures way of determining when ground temperatures are adequate for growth. In Fulton County, you still have adequate time to get this application done as we are having a delayed spring this year. During this first application, it is recommended to apply a fertilizer that has an analysis ratio of approximately 3-4 times the nitrogen as it does the potassium. It is suggested that phosphorus be left out of the fertilizer in the spring to avoid leaching or runoff from heavy spring rains. So you might purchase fertilizer that has an approximate analysis of 19-0-5 or 32-0-10 or in general, be called early spring fertilizer. In many cases, this fertilizer will also have some form of crabgrass preventer to pre-

HELP THICKEN YOUR LAWN ... A little work and attention to lawn now will help to have lush, green grass between you tows this summer. The extreme heat and drought of 2012 was hard on lawns and gardens. Many gardeners are facing a blank slate of bare soil, masses of dead patches that were once lawn or a bit of grass interspersed in a sea of weeds, says gardening expert Melinda Myers. Myers recommends following these steps to improve lawns this season. Start this spring to renovate or improve your weather-worn lawn. Remember that water is critical to get newly seeded and sodded lawns to survive. So be prepared to help nature along with the recovery effort. Evaluate the damage. Then use the check list below to find the best course of action to aid the ailing lawn. If the lawn is more than 60 percent weeds or bare soil, its probably time to start over. Use this opportunity to create a great foundation for growing a healthy lawn. Kill off the existing vegetation, add several inches of organic matter such as compost or peat moss and a low nitrogen slow release fertilizer into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil, and rake smooth. Select more drought tolerant grasses like rhizomatous (turf-type) tall fescues, buffalo grass, and Habiturf native lawn mix. Make sure the grass is suited to the climate and plant according to the label. Then sow the seeds, lightly rake and mulch or lay sod. Water often enough to keep the soil moist until the seeds sprout or the sod roots into the soil below. Then water thoroughly when the top few inches of soil are crumbly, but slightly moist to encourage deep roots. Fertilize new, existing and stressed lawns with a low nitrogen slow release fertilizer like Milorganite. It wont harm stressed lawns, young seedlings or newly laid sod. It will encourage slow steady growth. Southern lawns can be fertilized in April and again in early June. In the north fertilize around Memorial Day. And if 2013 turns into another hot dry summer, it wont burn the lawn. Mow high to encourage deeply rooted grass that is more drought tolerant and pest resistant. And mow often, removing only a third of the total height. Be sure to leave these short clippings on the lawn. They return moisture, nutrients, and organic matter to the soil. Repair small dead and bare patches as needed. Use a lawn patch kit, grass seed and mulch. For small spots, loosen the soil surface, sprinkle grass seed and lightly rake. Or mix a handful of grass seed in a bucket of topsoil. Sprinkle the mix over the soil surface. Do a bit more soil preparation when renovating larger dead areas in the lawn. Remove or kill any weeds that have filled in these areas. Till two inches of compost, peat moss or other organic matter into the top six inches of soil. Sow seed, rake and mulch or lay sod. Overseed thin and sparse lawn. First, core aerate the lawn to improve soil conditions and increase seed-to-soil contact. Spread grass seed over the aerated lawn and water as needed. Or rent a slit seeder or hire a professional with this type of equipment. These machines slice through the soil and drop the grass seed in place, increasing the seed-to-soil contact which is needed for good germination. Core aerate lawns that have more than one half an inch of thatch, those growing in compacted soils, or before overseeding. By removing plugs of soil you break through the thatch and create channels for water and fertilizer to reach the grass roots. Spot treat weeds on lawns that need minimal repair. Wait at least until fall to treat new and overseeded lawns. Spot treating minimizes the use of chemicals and reduces the stress on already stressed lawns. As always read and follow label directions carefully. Proper maintenance and a bit of cooperation from nature will help transform a lawn from an eyesore to an asset in the landscape.

vent germination of crabgrass weed seed that can be unsightly later in the summer. I would suggest that the formulation of nitrogen that is in the fertilizer be at least 50% slow release to extend the benefit over 6-8 weeks. Be sure to read the label instructions for application rate for your specific fertilizer spreader. Target rate of nitrogen is to 1 lb per 1,000 square feet. The second application of fertilizer this spring should be in late May or early June, often referred to as the Memorial Day application. Again, it is suggested that you purchase a fertilizer that is absent the phosphorus. You will want to apply a fertilizer that has 2-3 times the nitrogen as potassium and still with at least 50% slow release nitrogen. You may notice retail fertilizers with an approximate analysis of 19-0-8 or 25-0-11 that are suitable for this time of year. For this application it is recommended to get a fertilizer that is impregnated with a product that will protect your lawn against summer grubs. Grubs can weaken healthy root systems and are a good food source for moles. Target rate of nitrogen should again be to 1 lb per 1,000 square feet. While this article is written to emphasize the first two spring fertilizer applications in turf, it should be noted that some homeowners and professional lawn care companies may fertilize additional times throughout the year. An additional lb of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet may be applied in July (July 4th holiday) and again in September (Labor Day holiday). These applications can be made based on personal preference but are optional and dependent on weather variables. However, the often overlooked yet most important application of fertilizer in turf is the late fall (between Halloween and Thanksgiving) approximately 1-1.5 lbs of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. This application helps turf overwinter and get a rapid start in spring. Above all, the best way to determine how much fertilizer a particular lawn needs is to conduct a soil test with recommendations.

OSU Extension Fulton County will be hosting a new applicator training school for Commercial Core, Industrial Vegetation and Turf on Tuesday, April 30th, right here at the Robert Fulton Ag Center in Wauseon. Registration can be found on our website at fulton.osu.edu or by calling 419-337-9210.

COMMERCIAL NEW APPLICATOR SCHOOL:

Ohio State Strawberry Workshop Is May 16

planted in September and grow over the winter using plastic to keep the soil warm and suppress weed growth, which results in larger, sweeter berries during an earlier growing period, he said. OSU Extension and OARDC are CFAESs outreach and research arms, respectively. Thanks to the relatively new production method, Ohio consumers now can have access to locally grown strawberries as early as the first week of May and as late as October. In addition to touring the plasticulture trials, participants will also learn about: Variety evaluations, including day-neutral (summer-bearing) strawberries. The use of white and black plastic mulch to modify soil temperature. Winter row cover management study results for freeze and frost protection. Drip irrigation. Fertigation management, with row covers, bed shaping, plastic laying and transplanting equipment on display. Registration includes the program, handouts and refreshments. Contact Charissa McGlothin at 740289-2071, ext. 132, to register. The deadline to register is May 14.

PIKETON, Ohio Strawberry growers can learn about new production methods and techniques during an Ohio State University strawberry plasticulture workshop May 16. The workshop will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Ohio State University South Centers in Piketon, 1864 Shyville Road. Registration is $5. The centers Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author are part of Ohio States Col& columnist Melinda Myers has more than lege of Food, Agricultural, 30 years of horticulture experience and has and Environmental Sciencwritten over 20 gardening books, including es (CFAES). Cant Miss Small Space Gardening and The The workshop will feaLawn Guide Midwest Series. She hosts ture Brad Bergefurd, a horthe nationally syndicated Melindas Gar- ticulturist with Ohio State den Moment segments, is a columnist and University Extension and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms mag- the Ohio Agricultural Reazine and has a column in Gardening How- search and Development to magazine. Myers has a masters degree Center (OARDC). Bergefurd in horticulture, is a certified arborist and will discuss the plasticulwas a horticulture instructor with tenure. ture production method, Her web site is www.melindamyers.com in which strawberries are

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6 Spring Farm Safety/Lawn & Garden/ Planting

Wednesday, April 24th, 2013

How To Build A Fish Pond The Right Way

so that it can be enjoyed when someone is outdoors or inside. Also take into consideration rain run-off. This may contain chemicals from fertilizers and pesticides that can contaminate pond life. Avoid locating it too close to trees, otherwise a lot of time will be spent cleaning out leaves and other debris. If the pond will be growing only plants, be sure it gets a few hours of steady sun a day. For a pond containing only fish, shade will be adequate. PLAN ON WATER CIRCULATION. Although circulation is not a must, it can help aerate the water and clean out debris, if a filter is used. Plus, moving water is less susceptible to insect larvae growth like that of mosquitoes. Figure a waterfall or water jet into the design and a skimmer that will suck out the water. Be sure the skimmer is positioned so that the level of the pond water meets halfway up the skimmer box. If a waterfall will be used, gradually slope the pond away from the waterfall to direct water toward the skimmer. Check municipal building codes to see if a permit will be needed for the pond and the requisite plumbing/electrical work. There may be regulations as to how deeply the power line must be buried and other requirements. PURCHASE THE CORRECT LINER SIZE. Be sure to purchase the right size liner for the pond. Measure the maximum length and width of the pond. Double the depth of the pond and add it to these measurements. Add a foot or two for overlap and this will give you the pond liner size. PAY ATTENTION TO ROCKS AND GRAVEL. Too much gravel at the bottom of the pond may cause noxious gases to build up that can gradually kill off marine life. Only put about 2 inches of gravel. Also, keep in mind that some rocks are better left out of the pond design. Limestone can affect the pH of the pond water making it very acidic. Try to make the pond look as natural as possible, hiding pipes and electrical switches with plants and other landscaping items. Fill and get started. Be sure to include some aquatic plants because those will help create the right mix of nutrients into the water that can feed fish and other plant life. There is also prepackaged pond bacteria to prime the pond filter. Let the filter run a day or two before adding any fish to ensure that the water condition is right.

A PEACEFUL ADDITION ... A pond full of fish can be a nice addition to a persons backyard landscape. A water feature in the backyard is not only an attractive way to add dimension and visual interest to the entertaining space, it can also be a tranquil, relaxing place to which to retire. A pond filled with marine plants or fish can be a welcome respite in the yard. For those who havent done major excavation or built something similar in the yard before, it pays to become educated before digging the first hole. In order to ensure the fish pond goes in correctly, there are a few things the do-it-yourselfer needs to know. DETERMINE SIZE. Many first-time pond builders simply make their ponds too small. If fish or a lot of aquatic plants are planned, be sure to size it large enough to accommodate growth. Err on the larger size -- some dirt can always be added back if it seems too large. A koi pond should be at least four feet deep at its deepest point. One can vary the depths of the pond by creating shelfs of dirt or rock. DETERMINE LOCATION. The best place to put a pond is close to the house

How To Cultivate A Herb Garden

Many people cultivate gardens both inside and outside of their homes with a focus on adding aesthetic appeal to their property. But a garden that boasts plants that are edible and pleasing to the eye is a possibility as well. Planting an herb garden is a creative way to enjoy the sights, smells and tastes of a wide variety of plants. Using fresh-harvested herbs in culinary endeavors imparts a taste that dried spices cannot match. Whats more, fresh herbs are often easy to cultivate. Herbs are versatile, capable of lending great flavor to foods while also playing different roles in personal health and beauty. Herbs can be grown to perfume homes and bodies. There are herbs that are also purported to help with ailments, from upset stomachs to anxiety. When planting an herb garden, you may want to pay particular attention to the types of flavors and smells you like in your home and cooking. This will help you to narrow down the types of herbs you will plant. Many wouldbe herb gardeners tend to start small to see what luck they have when cultivating herbs. Fortunately, herbs can grow well in containers indoors, provided the soil is amenable and there is plenty of sunlight. Herbs will grow best in well-prepared soil. Make sure that it is rich in organic matter and drains well. Also, for plants like parsley, be sure to have deep pots or dig deeply in the garden to establish long taproots. Until the weather warms up, you may want to begin herb cultivation indoors and then transfer plants outside during the summer. Basil, for instance, is a tropical plant that does well in warm conditions. Therefore, it will need to be kept away from drafts and get several hours of direct sunshine a day. Place most herb planters in a south-facing window of a home to ensure they get ample sunlight and to allow the soil to dry adequately between waterings. With many herbs, leaf production will diminish on any stems that flower. It is essential to pinch off flowers that form to encourage the herb plant to continue producing leaves, which are the parts of the plant most associated with seasoning and aroma.

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