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Tips on
creating a green lawn
Published Apr. 25, 2002 JETI
Local experts in organic and
natural-based lawn care suggest the following to reduce your
lawn's dependence on pesticides and fertilizers.
Ask for the organic or more natural choices at
retailers that sell lawn and garden products: Nurseries and co-ops
generally have a better selection than do mass-market retailers.
Bachman's sells more than 20 natural or organic products; Target
sells 11 products with the EarthCare label by Schultz.
Always follow label directions: Don't apply more
just for good measure.
Don't spray pesticides unless you're certain you
have a pest: Treat only the affected area.
Fertilize less often: Consider doing so every other
year, then taper off to every three to five years.
Try corn gluten meal as a pre-emergent against crab
grass: But be patient. Its effect is cumulative; it may take up to
three years for eradication.
Replace some grass with native prairie plants:
These plants are available at Landscape Alternatives in Roseville
and Mother Earth Gardens in Minneapolis, among others. Native
plants may be inappropriate in play areas, however, and some local
ordinances may limit them.
Look for organic brands: Consider Renaissance
(1-800-395-4769), Summerset (http://www.sumrset.com or
952-820-0363) and Gardens Alive products (http://www.gardensalive.com
).
Ask about guarantees: Ask about refunds or
substitutes should any product or service not work despite proper
application,
Ask lawn care services if they have a natural and
organic-based program: Some may have a combination of chemical and
natural. Greener Pastures (651-646-2900) says it is 100 percent
natural and organic-based.
-- John Ewoldt
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