by Lee
Stewart
Colorado State University Extension Master
Gardener
Larimer County
Q: The fresh grass clippings I placed around my annuals as mulch are now moldy looking and the plants are yellowing. Why?
A: Grass clippings should be dry and brown before using as mulch. Plants are deprived of nitrogen as the microorganisms in the soil decompose the clippings and cannot be used by the plant. Air and water can’t penetrate the soil as the clippings mat down. It helps to mix organic material, such as leaves, into the clippings before using.
Q: The grass north of my house in a narrow area is growing moss this year. What should I do?
A: For immediate results, rake up the moss with a fine-toothed rake and water the area less. It is best to correct the cause by pruning trees to let in more sun and fix poor drainage in the area that is mossy. Excessive shade and acidic soils also contribute to moss. There are also more shade tolerant grasses available. Visit the CSU Extension Turf website at: http:csuturf.colostate.edu and click on “home lawn care.”
Q: What is meant by the term “reblooming?” I believed it was continuous blooms all summer. The flowers on my plant are almost gone but still have lush foliage.
A: Reblooming flowers bloom profusely early in the season, the fade away. Later in the summer or in early fall, the plant will bloom again, having abundant flowers just like in early spring.
Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.
Return to Master Gardener Articles