Question:
I've heard of people painting their lawns during the winter months or in a drought so they appeared green. Do you have any idea what is used and where I can purchase it?
Answer:
Lawn painting has come back into fashion. It was quite popular in the 50’s, 60’s and early 70’s to treat Bermuda and Saint Augustine Grasses in the late fall. These are warm season turf that go dormant and turn brown, November through March. It was an inexpensive alternative to over seeding the turf. The practice became unnecessary with the availability of fine leaf Fescues and Bluegrasses insuring a green lawn year round. In addition, the availability and the affordability of sod in the 70’s contributed to its decline. This also resulted in the seeding of new lawns being discontinued. The practice reemerged this summer to paint drought stricken grasses and bare spots during the summer months. It also created a new service business for those not wanting to do it themselves. Lawn paint is made from non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients that cling to grass blades and anything else you spray it on. It’s harmless to humans and pets, is colorfast when dry, and won’t contaminate the watershed. Grass paint will stain driveways, fence posts, pavers, and garden mulch, so protect the surrounding areas, and spray carefully. In addition, you shouldn’t walk on the area until its dry. The mistakes can be scrubbed off with a wire brush and an ammonia-based window cleaner. ‘Doing It Yourself’ (DIY) is worth it as the pro typically charge from twenty-five to thirty-five cents per square foot of grass. But if you prefer the pro route, do a ‘google’ search for “lawn care services” and “lawn maintenance” in your area. Monterey Green Lawn Pigment is one of several paints available at garden centers and other retailers but there are other similar products. A quart covers 5,000 sq. ft., applied with a tank sprayer and cost about $60.00. One application should last the winter but you’ll need a couple of days for the paint to dry and more often the rest of the year.
Question:
I have three Moth Orchids, and they are loosing their leaves. I water them every ten to fourteen days and feed them the day after I water?
Answer:
My first concern was with overwatering but you're watering schedule is fine. You could probably go longer now with the shorter days. It's okay for them to be a little on the dry side before you water again. One of the purpose of the leaves is to allow water to be released from a plant. With fewer leaves, you should increase the days between watering time. With older plants, drainage becomes a problem as the soil mix breaks down into smaller particles. Repotting is recommended every nine to twelve months. So, I think you're feeding your plants too often. With a typical Orchid Food, monthly feeding is the recommendation.
