Mulch not only helps keep your soil cool and moist, but also prevents soil compaction and improves the soil's texture. To help prevent weeds, fine mulches should be applied one to two inches deep, while coarse or fluffy mulches should be three to four inches deep.

The benefits of core aeration and efficient watering begin to pay off during July's warmer days. If you did not aerate your lawn this spring, consider doing so this fall to improve the soil and root-growing environment. Core aeration is also a great first step for planting new grass seed in the fall.

Grass clippings that are allowed to fall back onto your lawn decompose quickly and provide a good source of nutrients for the soil. Mulching mowers slice the clippings into tiny pieces and blow them back into the turf. You can achieve the same benefits with a side-discharge mower by mowing frequently enough to remove only 1/3 of the turf's total height.

The authors have received training through Colorado State University Extension's Master Gardener program and is a Master Gardener volunteer for Larimer County.

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This page updated:  August 5, 2008