17th Annual TED DAY
Mow Like a Pro: What I Learned at a Turf Care Conference
Hey there, lawn lovers! Last week, I had the awesome opportunity to attend the 17th annual Ted Day hosted by Landscape Illinois right here in our neck of the woods at NIU. It was a day packed with game-changing insights from top industry experts, and I couldn't wait to share what I learned with my clients and neighbors in Algonquin, Huntley, Crystal Lake, and beyond.
As a professional in landscape maintenance, I'm always looking for ways to improve our services for both our commercial and residential clients. This event wasn't just about theory—it was about practical, science-backed strategies that we can apply to every lawn we care for. Here’s a rundown of the three biggest lessons that will shape how we approach turf care this season and in the future.
1. The Climate-Conscious Lawn: Mowing High is a Smarter Choice
First, we heard from Dr. Fred Yelverton, a brilliant expert from North Carolina State University. He gave a fascinating talk about how a changing climate affects our turfgrass. He made a crucial distinction: "climate" is the long-term trend, not just a hot day or a cold snap. Over the last 30 years, our region has seen a rise in average nighttime temperatures, which stresses out our lawns and gives weeds a competitive edge.
So, how do we fight back? Dr. Yelverton’s advice was simple and powerful: mow high. He shared results from a study showing that turf mowed at 4 inches was the healthiest and most resistant to weeds. This is a game-changer for homeowners and commercial property managers alike. While we've always advocated for this, it's great to have a Ph.D. confirm that mowing high is the most effective way to prevent weeds and build a stronger, healthier lawn naturally. This single practice can reduce the need for excessive chemical treatments, which is a win for everyone.
2. The Secret to a Lush Lawn? Leave the Leaves!
Next, Paul Koch from the University of Wisconsin-Madison tackled a timely topic: fall leaf cleanup. For many of us in Algonquin and Crystal Lake, raking and bagging leaves is a major chore. But what if I told you there’s a better way that's actually good for your lawn?
Dr. Koch’s research focused on the impact of mulching leaves on turf and soil health. In a groundbreaking study, he found that the healthiest lawns the following summer were the ones where a thin layer of mulched leaves was left on the grass over the winter. This mulch acts as a natural fertilizer, providing essential nutrients and improving soil structure. It’s a simple, eco-friendly solution that benefits your lawn without the extra work. This insight is something we're already incorporating into our commercial landscape maintenance plans and recommending to our residential clients throughout Huntley and beyond.
3. A Simple Quote that Changed Everything
Finally, Fred Yelverton wrapped up the day with a talk on managing common weeds. While he covered a lot of ground, one quote he shared is now my new mantra:
"Mowing grass high is the best herbicide application you can use."
This statement perfectly summarizes the core of sustainable and effective landscape maintenance. Instead of constantly battling weeds with chemicals, we can use smart, preventative practices to create a resilient lawn that can outcompete them on its own. It's a fundamental shift in thinking that prioritizes the long-term health of your lawn over quick fixes.
The day was an incredible reminder of why I’m so passionate about turf care. By staying on top of the latest research, we can continue to provide top-notch commercial and residential lawn care services that not only make your property look amazing but also keep it healthy and strong for years to come.
Stay tuned for more tips, and remember to mow high!
