Disclaimers

Fescue Disclaimer

In the Upstate of South Carolina fescue turf sometimes struggles to make it through the intense heat and drought of the summer. Despite our best efforts and consistent treatments, many times fescue simply starts to die out in late July and August when the temperatures are at their highest. This is especially true with our customers whose fescue turf is in full sun or for those who do not have an irrigation system. McClain Landscaping will make every effort possible to help maintain a healthy fescue lawn, however, we will not be responsible for fescue that dies out during the summer due to intense heat or drought.

Also note: we do not spray herbicides on fescue during the heat of the summer.

Tips on keeping your fescue throughout the summer.

1. Cut your fescue grass at least 3 1/2" to 4" high. Fescue cut short has a much greater chance of dying out. Cut frequently so that you are only cutting a third of the leaf off at a time. Fescue that is allowed to get high and then cut down severely is at risk of dying out. If you feel your Fescue turf is under stress because of the heat or drought it may be a good idea not to cut it. Remember, there is no rule that says you have to cut your grass every week.

2. Don't overwater. Only water about 1" to 1 1/2" of water per week.  Overwatering your lawn will encourage grassy weeds such as crabgrass as well as hard to control sedges. It also will encourage funguses such as brown spot.


Centipede Die-Back

Over the past several years we have noticed Centipede turf beginning to die back in the spring. This die-back can mimic disease or even appear that a non-selective weed killer like RoundUp has been sprayed on the lawn. While that may happen from time to time what is most likely happening is called Centipede Die Back. This occurs when we have periods of cold, then warm, then cold weather in the early months of the year. What happens is the Centipede turf begins to green up during the warm weather; it is then shocked with another round of cold weather after the green-up process has begun. Often times this will cause large sections of grass to die. We have noticed this much more frequently in the last several years as we have had relatively mild winters here in the Upstate of South Carolina.

As a result of this die-back McClain Landscaping will not be responsible for Centipede turf which has died back due to mild winter temperatures.