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Shady Lawn Issues

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Posted in Yard Care 101

Autumn is the ideal time to deal with shade issues in your yard. After a summer of yard care, you'll know where the grass struggles to grow due to limited sunshine. Now is the time to do something about it.

  • If you are determined to have grass beneath the trees, at least thin out the tree crowns to allow for some more sunlight to penetrate to the ground. Depending upon the size of your trees, this job is generally best for tree pruning experts. Call an arborist or landscaper in your area to help.
  • Sow grass seed in these shady spots during the autumn months to allow the grass to sprout and grow while the trees have fewer to no leaves. This gives the grass a good head start on next year. Be sure to use a starter fertilizer and follow all the rules for growing grass.
  • Plant an attractive ground cover in the shady spot instead of grass. English ivy tends to grow quickly to fill in an area. Vinca is another good choice although it grows more slowly. You can also decide to create a shade garden with selections such as hostas, ferns, hellevores and astilbe, to name a few perennials that will thrive. For more information on what will grow good in the shade where you live, visit the National Gardening Association's website.
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