With the constant rains in May and now June, many turf management practices have been delayed and many practices have to be modified as a result of the rain:
Fertilization: With all extended growth period using up much of the soil N plus the potential of minor N loss through leaching from all the rain, a nitrogen application of 0.75 lbs N/1000 sq ft on most turf areas will probably be necessary.
Aerfication: It’s still not too late to aerify and aerification will be critical to help reduce compaction on soils that have been trafficked when too wet. Hollow tines are preferred whenever possible, but consider solid tines to minimize disruption of play or during temperatures above 80oF.
Weed control: Clover and other broadleaf weeds are thriving with the rain and warm temps. An application of broadleaf herbicide is likely justified now, but insure the turf is actively growing (fertilized) and not under drought stress and try to spray on the coolest day in the forecast. We and we expect summer annual grasses like crabgrass to thrive over the next few weeks. Dimension, Drive, Acclaim, or MSMA can be used on summer annual grasses. Yellow nutsedge will also likely thrive with the wet soils. Manage or Basagram are the herbicides of choice for yellow nutsedge, but multiple applications will be needed for optimum control.
Disease control: Saturated soils, high humidity, and warm temperatures are ideal for a variety of diseases like dollar spot, brown patch, and pythium. Though fungicide use is generally not justified in lawns, keep an eye out for these diseases in golf and athletic turf.