Concerned about: 
Fleas - Roaches - Grubs - Ants - Termites

Summer is the time when those pesky pests can really affect the quality of our outdoor experiences.  Beneficial Nematodes are microscopic, non-segmented worms that occur naturally in soil throughout the world. Once released, the nematodes seek out their host, enter through body openings, emit a toxin and death of the host occurs within 48 hours.  The Nematodes control fleas, roaches, ants, termites, grubs and fruit flies.  Nematodes can be added to your next compost tea application for $20.

Green Mowing Tips

Mow turf as needed and mulch clippings into the lawn to return nutrients and organic matter to the soil.  Increasing the amount of organic matter in your soil is one of the cornerstones of establishing a successful organic landscape.  Put any excess clippings in a compost pile.  If you don't  have a compost pile, get one started today with the clippings and some leaves.  Also remember that increasing  mower height will reduce stress on your turf. 

Webworms
Each summer, webworms build large nest in pecan and other deciduous trees.  The caterpillars are the larval stage of a moth.  The webworms do not damage the tree, but the loss of leaves will often cause stress to a tree.  Webworm infestations have increased since the introduction of chemical lawn care and the use of aerosol wasp-killer sprays.  With the reduction of the predator wasps, webworms have few natural enemies and have become very common in populated areas.

Earth-friendly methods of controlling webworms include ripping a hole in the web, which allows wasps easier access to the caterpillars and introducing lacewings in the spring before the nests are established.  I have found spraying compost tea directly on the web successful, however I am experimenting whether it is opening the web for the wasps or the organisms are controlling the webworms.

Referral Program

I wanted to find a way to thank those of  you who are sharing your appreciation for Happy Soil Compost Tea with others.  I thought it might be fun to reward you in fish and nematodes!  Until 2007, for each  referral I will apply either Organic Gem Fresh Fish Fertilizer or beneficial nematodes to your yard, depending on what your landscape is calling for.  Just think about it,  you can handle those grub worms by telling someone about me and my tea.

Watering your lawn
Check the City of Austin Watering Schedule or your area  to find out what days you are scheduled to water.   Typically you should water between 1/2 to 1 inch every 5-7 days and in the morning before 10 or in the evening after 7:00.  Remember to take into account rainfall in you watering plan.   As you follow the watering schedule watch your grass blades.  When the blades close or do not quickly rebound after foot traffic, your grass needs more water.  Grass in direct sunlight often requires  more water than shaded grass.  Try adjusting your watering to meet the needs of specific areas in your lawn.

How much does your sprinkler system  or sprinkler water?  Place several shallow dishes around your lawn, cat food or tuna cans work well.  After watering for 15 minutes, measure and average the amount of water.