When the world wearies, there is always the garden.

Hello, again!

With recent rainfall in our area, our turf should be in good condition going into the summer months. Thankfully, Wichita’s main water source, Cheney Reservoir is only a few inches below normal. With the conservation pool over 95% full, we are in a much better water situation than we were just a few weeks ago. However, we all still need to do our part in conserving our most precious natural resource - water. As we get into the hottest part of the year, we need to be conscious of how we irrigate our lawns and landscapes. Typically 1” of water per week is adequate to keep plants healthy and growing.

As the summer heats up and less precipitation falls, our turf areas can stress and go dormant. I have made the mistake in the past thinking that dormancy was what was going on in a bad spot in my yard. Upon investigating the situation, I found my turf was adequately irrigated, but active grub worms were the issue. Grubs are hungry this time of the year, feeding on the roots of not only turf but also trees and shrubs. Hi-Yield Grub Free Zone III can help control white grubs before they damage your lawn. Apply once for protection all YEAR long! When applied early, Grub Free Zone III helps eliminate white grubs (including the larvae of Japanese beetle, Asiatic garden beetle, Oriental beetle, chafers, May or June beetles, and mole crickets.)

If you are considering planting new grass this year, it’s not too early to start the process. The first decision to make is if it’s necessary to start completely over from the ground up. Many times, it’s an easier path to success to go that route. By eliminating the existing turf, all weeds and unwanted Bermuda grass will be gone, and when you plant with Johnson's Blue Ribbon Tall Fescue Blend, you’ll have the highest-rated varieties as turf. It's a blend of fescue types that have rated highest in trials in our area - including our own!

Whatever your lawn concerns, we are here to help. Bring in a sample of what you have going on, and we’ll get you a safe and easy solution.

Our summer crops of annuals and perennials are showing lots of color for your landscape. From new coneflower varieties with yellow, red and orange flowers to annual vinca, rose moss, marigolds and others. It’s going to be a hot week; keep yourself, your pets and plants well hydrated!

Your friend in the garden,

Marty Johnson
Owner - Johnson's Garden Centers