Flower beds across the West Georgia have been suffering from the effects of the cold weather, with many plants showing damage, in some cases extensive. However, there is good news on the horizon, as the warm weather over the past couple of days has already resulted in recovery for some plants, which is visible as green tissue. The longer the warm weather persists, the more likely it is that more plants will recover.

The situation below ground is similar – any roots that were not frozen have a chance to help the plants recover, and warm soil will aid this process. Fertilization is not necessary at this stage, and should be avoided until the plants are actively growing again.

To address customer concerns about the appearance of the affected foliage and flowers, it is possible to clean them up for aesthetic purposes. However, the best course of action is simply to be patient and give the plants time to recover.

According to seasonal color experts, all of the plants in the affected areas were damaged to some extent. South-facing beds and pots sustained the least amount of loss, as they are exposed to sunlight throughout the winter months. Plants that received reflected heat from roads, signs, sidewalks, and walls also experienced less damage. In contrast, north-facing and shaded areas stayed frozen for longer periods, resulting in substantially more damage. Container gardens and raised planters may have suffered particularly severe damage, as their root systems were more exposed and remained frozen for longer periods.

Pansies and violas are expected to recover, particularly with the help of the warm rain that fell earlier this week. Most accent plants, however, will not recover from the extended freeze. Acoris, heuchera, euphorbia, and dusty miller may recover, but this will depend on their exposure to the elements.

To remove damage from annuals and perennials in beds and containers, it is best to use sharp clippers. Avoid pulling or pinching the plants, as this can damage new, healthy growth. Keep a close eye on the plants over the next few days, and look out for new growth. With the warmer, wet weather that is forecast, it is also important to be on the lookout for fungus, and to apply a fungicide as needed.

It’s our mission to help our customers create and maintain beautiful, healthy outdoor spaces. If you have been affected by the recent cold weather and are concerned about the health of your plants, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of experts are here to provide guidance and support as your garden recovers from the freeze.

If you are interested in taking proactive measures to protect your plants from future weather-related stress, we offer a variety of services, including mulching, pruning, and fertilization. We also offer custom garden design and installation services to help you create the outdoor oasis of your dreams.

For more information about how Alternative Environments can help you care for your outdoor space, please contact us or give us a call at 678-840-4449. We look forward to working with you and helping you create an outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.

We can’t wait for the beautiful spring weather to get here. While you are waiting, here are some steps you should take to prepare your lawn for the growing season and help ensure thick luscious growth.

• • Keep it Tidy! Removing leaves and debris is important, especially if you’ve got a lot of moisture. Leaves, pine needles, and the like will easily mold or mildew. A rake is your best friend in this situation, because raking also helps to keep your grass from matting, improves airflow, and helps prevent disease.
  • Check the Soil. If your turf gets a lot of foot traffic, it can easily get compacted. Look for moss, which can be a sign your soil is compacted. If you notice compaction, contact AELMI to schedule core aeration to make sure your soil is getting enough air. Winter or early spring is the best time to aerate your warm-season grasses (this includes Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, and St. Augustine grasses).
  • Check the Soil Again. While you’re at it, check your soil’s pH. It’s best if it’s a neutral pH. If your grass is acidic, don’t panic–AELMI can help you solve this issue with a specialized application of fertilizer and lime.
  • Check your Gear. Have your lawn mower cleaned and serviced, check on the state of your tools, collect anything you “loaned” to neighbors last year, and get ready for all the yard work you’ll enjoy come spring!

Almost every year in late summer, caterpillars invade turfgrasses across Georgia. Damage to established turf is mostly aesthetic, but newly planted sod or sprigged areas can be severely damaged or even killed.

Several caterpillars can damage turfgrass, but in late summer most of the problems are caused by fall armyworms. Their favorite turf to feed upon is bermudagrass.

Adult armyworm moths are active at night. Females lay eggs in masses of 50 to several hundred. Eggs hatch in a few days, and the young larvae begin to feed on leaf tissue. As the worms grow, they consume entire leaves of grass.

Armyworms are most active early and late in the day, spending the hotter hours down near the soil in the shade. Larvae feed for 2 to 3 weeks before pupating in the soil.

Weather conditions fuel the development of armyworms. Some UGA Cooperative Extension agents report this season as the worst they have seen in 25 years.

Daily observation is key in recognizing fall armyworm damage. Young caterpillars may be present but not causing noticeable damage to the plants. Fall armyworms are usually more active in the cooler parts of the day, but in extremely thick grass they can remain active while under cover. Learn more about armyworms from the UGA Extension.

We carry an effective treatment for armyworm infestation. The product is a curative, preventative and an exciter to get the worms moving to get them in contact with the material.  It is not only a contact killer but a systemic as well, so it gets down into the soil to kill grubs that are not developed into the adult stage that you see in the lawns. Please contact us today to get pricing and availability of our treatment programs.