Step 1: Remove thatch and place a good garden soil on the areas to be repaired. Add a fertilizer as directed by the Penn State soil test and mix into the new soil.

Fall is the time to provide much-needed attention to our lawns, after a summer of heavy usage. Follow these basic steps for a healthy, lush lawn in the spring and summer.

For poor performing lawns, obtain a soil sample for testing.

Poor performance (light color, sparse areas, numerous weeds) may be due to pH imbalances.

Lawn grass (turf grass) grows best at a pH of 6.5, which is slightly acidic. Add soil amendments based on the test results.

Fall is an excellent time to amend the soil, as the nutrients are absorbed during the winter months.

Continue to cut grass to a height of 2½ to 3 inches and water as needed up until the first hard frost.

Grass higher than 3 inches may become matted and is more susceptible to snow mold or other fungi.

Grass that is too short (less than 2 ½ inches) negatively affects the root system.

Remove fallen leaves from the lawn. Leaves that remain on the lawn may result in bare areas or dead grass come spring. Use a mulching mower to enrich the lawn with the mulched leaves.

Assure that the leaf matter is finely shredded and evenly distributed across the lawn.

Aerate every few years especially if the soil is compacted.

After aeration, apply a fall fertilizer, which will reach the root system via the aeration holes. Follow the fertilizer recommendations provided by the soil test. Consider using commercial grade compost or an organic fertilizer.

Overseed your lawn to create a denser lawn or fill in bare spots.

Fall is the ideal time to overseed because the dew in the morning provides moisture, the sun is not as hot during the day, and the nights are cooler.

Select grass seed that is compatible with our region (cool grass mix) and the lawn area to be enhanced (shade grass for under trees).

Taking care of your lawn in the fall rewards you with an enviable lawn in the spring.Contact the Penn State Extension Master Gardener Butler County Garden Hotline at 724-287-4761, Ext. 229, for a soil test kit, additional information on turf grass management or any gardening practices.Visit the Penn State Extension website (extension.psu.edu) and select the topic Turfgrass Species for Pennsylvania to learn more about this topic.Julia Habsburg is a Butler County Master Gardener. Her passions include growing herbs and vegetables.

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Step 2: Distribute grass seed and evenly work into the soil and water. The author uses Penn State Mix.

Step 3: Cover the patch with straw. Make sure to water (1 inch per week) the area regularly.

Julia Habsburg has been a Master Gardener since 1998. Her gardening passions include growing herbs and vegetables at her home in Harmony, She incorporates repurposed and decorative items into her gardens.submitted photo