Signs Of A Chemically Dependent Lawn?
 

Chemical dependence is used to describe the compulsive use of chemical fertilizers and the increasing need to continue using them to maintain a green and weed free lawn, despite the problems caused by their overuse. Often, cultural and societal norms influence what we consider acceptable standards of lawn appearance.  Thus, in a quest for instance results, short-term solutions are used to achieve norms without consideration to the long-term consequences to the health of your turf, or the second-hand health hazards to your family and pets.

The following are the most common indications that a lawn may be having a problem with chemical abuse. However, each lawn may experience symptoms differently based on soil conditions, type and frequency of fertilizers and pesticides used, and overall care given to the turf. Symptoms may include:

  • The turf color reacts quickly to the application of fertilizer and then slowly fades until the next application.
  • Sudden, rapid growth of the top shoots after application of fertilizer.
  • An abundance of thatch (greater than 1/2 inch).
  • Excessive watering needs to keep grass green.
  • The top layer of soil is like a thin crust
  • The top several inches of soil is hard and compacted; it is not easy to penetrate several inches into the soil.
  • Grass density and color is inconsistent and spotty, bare spots  or patches of weeds may exist.
  • Patches or and abundance of clover exists through the lawn.
  • No sign of earthworms or other soil organisms exist.