Have We had Enough Yet Of The Storms?
It feels like we just were making progress after Hurricane Ian and along come Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. Storm surge has taken on a new meaning and understanding to those of us living in coastal areas. In addition to the devastating effects of storm surge on homes, lawns and plants also took quite a beating. As flood waters rise, increased salinity from saltwater and even brackish water cause havoc with root systems. The salt basically pickles the roots and prevents them from soaking in life-giving water. Plants and grass soon wither and die from lack of water – even if they are in drenched land.
A Solution
There is a solution. It will take some time, but you’ll be managing the effects at a pretty minimal cost instead of just replacing expensive sod. Our Tempco Team can treat surge destroyed turf and plants with a three-part system. First, we’ll adjust the irrigation system and add Gypsum. Gypsum is a mineral consisting of calcium sulphate that leaches salt out of the roots and with proper irrigation, pushes it down and away. Gypsum doesn’t just remove salt though. Other nutrients can be removed from the soil, which requires steps two and three – sulfur and fertilization treatment. Sulphur increases acidification and improves the uptake of other essential nutrients that must be added through re-fertilization.
What To Expect
What to expect after your lawn and plants have been affected by storm surge.
- If you do nothing – your lawn and plants will turn gray, wither and die and you will have to replace them all.
- If you have your lawn and plants professionally treated:
- Plants will initially take on a yellowish color after Gypsum treatment.
- Two weeks or so later, the sulfur and fertilization treatment is applied.
- Over the next few weeks, your grass will eventually begin to re-green. The warmer the temperature, the greener it will be. Colder temperatures will slow the re-greening process.
- The bottom line is that your lawn will be saved and you will not have to re-sod and replace.
A small investment now can prevent a large cost later. Our Tempco Team is ready to help – just let us know what you need!