The wild weather earlier this week gave the Chattanooga area a much-needed soaking, but it wasn’t enough for area yards, said Ray Painter, who co-owns Green Thumb Nursery with his wife, Beth Painter.
“The rain certainly helped but didn’t begin to make up the deficit,” he said.
According to WRCB-TV meteorologist Paul Barys, the area still has a 12-inch rain deficit for the year.
“Any rain helps gardens and lawns, but if you noticed after it rained, the ground acted like a sponge,” Barys said. “We had a very dry summer, and we’re having a very dry autumn so far.”
Painter, who’s been in the gardening business for 35 years, said it’s pretty common for this area to go through a drought this time of year. He offers the following advice to protect and revive your lawn, shrubs and flowers during dry times.
1. Install an irrigation system, if possible. “It’s not complicated but does involve a tremendous amount of labor when installing it,” he said. “Though beneficial, it’s not the answer for every problem caused by a drought. Remember to adjust it from time to time. Don’t let it be a false security.”
2. Reseed. “Some people have had total losses in their yards. If you haven’t reseeded at this point, do so, even though, by the calendar, it’s late. But don’t wait. Do it now.”
3. Water. “If you reseed your yard, you’ll have to water it, even with the rainfall. You need to supplement the moisture. Water lawn and shrubs at least twice a week.”
4. Mulch. “Mulch always helps retain moisture. Use pine bark, pine needles, cypress needles. I don’t recommend using mulch made from leaves. Leaves mat, which sheds water instead of absorbing it.”
5. Fertilize. “Use a starter fertilizer after reseeding. And before the cold weather hits, use a winterizer fertilizer. If weather permits, you might get some growth. Also check for insects and diseases and treat accordingly.”