#leaf mold

[inthecityofgoodabode]

November & December 2024: The Last Of The First & The First Of The Last

Frosted Echinacea:

I forgot to mention in my previous post that the gravy my queen made for the turkey & dressing was amazing. She used a base of homemade chicken broth & store-bought turkey broth and infused it with homegrown lemongrass & lemon thyme. You'd think that would make the gravy lemony but, instead, it just added a nice brightness:

Sunday's sweet potato harvest. This is what two roughly five gallon sized pots can produce so definitely a productive crop if you are growing in a small space like an apartment balcony. As a bonus, the leaves are edible (raw or sauteed like spinach) and, though they aren't prolific bloomers, their blossoms are similar to morning glories. This year's plants had beautiful pale purple flowers with deep purple veining. We planted Beauregard starts but, looking at the coloration of some of the tubers, I think we had some volunteers from previous years:

I drove around the neighborhood collecting bagged leaves on Friday & Saturday.

We are storing some to make leaf mold with. That will take time & moisture. I imagine by Spring time some of the bags will have broken down sufficiently:

The rest was spread around the front & back garden beds as cold weather protection that will eventually break down to amend the soil & build up the soil level. We're basically trying to emulate what trees do in the forest. It is a kind of regenerative agriculture for the home gardener:

This would have been a great shot (well, great to me anyway) if only that white-throated sparrow had cooperated. There was this strand of light just to the left of that shadow that would have made the white & yellow on its head shine but it either had its head turned the wrong way in the light or the right way but in the shadows. This was the best out of the bunch that I took. I still like the lines & colors in the photo:

[weepingfoxfury]

Leaf mold and a lively thing ...

Found a Pink Frilled Tussock Moth caterpillar yesterday. First sight of one. Twig in hand, I coaxed the 'reluctant to cooperate' hairy little critter onto a piece of card and then placed it amongst the leaves that are piling up beneath Cathweegia. Fingers crossed it will achieve the chrysalis stage.

Currently taking a breather in the shiny metropolis with Biggest Dog. She loves the whole fill up your senses package, but her noggin needs regular five minute breaks to process everything :-) ...

[howdoesone]

How does one determine the pH level of their soil and adjust it accordingly for optimal plant growth?

Soil pH is an important factor in plant growth and health. The pH level of the soil determines how well plants can absorb nutrients from the soil. Most plants prefer a slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, it can negatively affect plant growth and development. In this article, we will discuss how to determine the pH level of your soil and…

[xensilverquill]

If the green left the grass on the other side 🌱 I would make like a tree and leave 🌳 But if I reached for your hand, would your eyes get wide 🐛 Who knew the other side could be so green 💚

Ducky Isopod Pattern by Liudmyla Konkina

[lettersforbeatrice]

remember when we were robbed of the lettuce bikini

[myxomycota]

snail eating a Trichia sp. by Adam Leaf

[leaf4e]

moldy building

(textures and everything is still wip so they dont line up properly)

[leafuxxtea]

Imagine being filled with brain eating mold spores

I don't have to imagine it!! ^^

And also I can't, no more brain. It all got eaten by the mold spores 😞

[stuck-in-the-ghost-zone]

went to a cat cafe w my sister & met some absolute mold spores of kittens (scruffiest fluffiest thangs ive ever seen) & this geriatric old man who looked exactly like my first cat n curled up on my lap.... psychically sending them ur way <3333

speaking of mold spores.... my mom has been talking about how his toys have been going missing for weeks now.... you'll never guess what we just found a stash of under the couch

[chicago-geniza]

My brain like "wow someone should study how fast my brain fog clears when I take a double hit of albuterol"...Raya you dumb bitch it's just asthma and steroids. It's not that deep. You have severe asthma. You cannot breathe. Your brain does not have enough oxygen and then it does, with a bonus kick

[fromthedust]

GOLDEN DREAM: ARBORED - detail view showing semi-transparent glass element over cast paper with glass bead & dichroic glass rod fitted into surface of leafed textured joint cement cradle

GOLDEN DREAM: ARBORED - detail view showing cast bronze 'spill' element fitted to Tennessee marble fitted jutting-out of surface of leafed and lacquered textured joint cement cradle

GOLDEN DREAM: ARBORED - detail view showing Verde di Prato serpentine element fitted into surface of leafed and lacquered textured joint cement cradle

GOLDEN DREAM: ARBORED - detail view showing segment of finished picture-frame molding element and two pink-colored glass marbles fitted into surface of leafed textured joint cement cradle

GOLDEN DREAM: ARBORED - frontal view

sculptural painting: schlag-metal leaf and lacquer on plywood cradle with joint cement, glass elements, dichroic glass, Verde di Prato serpentine, Tennessee marble, cast bronze, cast paper, finished wood molding element - 12½"x 12¾"x 3¾" - 2016 - never exhibited

[weepingfoxfury]

The man on the radio wends his way through Wednesday morning helping us while away the hours. Weatherwise we're not exactly talking tropical, but definitely David Attenborough sweaty pits kind of weather. The traffic lady says there's animals loose on one of the main Dublin roads again, and suggests farmers need a fencing refresher course.

Today's groaner: a man fell into a vat of coffee and died. In an attempt to console his wife, the police told her "at least he didn't suffer; it was instant" ;-D badoom tish ... here all week!!

Off to the shiny metropolis, hip hip hooray, calloo callay. Well, maybe I'm not that excited about it ... but my poorly kitty cat needs vet tlc. Too tired to be overly quippy at this point, so as you were and tomorrow may bring more in the way of sentence silliness.

Bring me the coffee pot and let's see if I can stay upright! ;-D ...

[caveundertree]

So tiny

Yet menacing

Slime mold along the edge of a leaf.

[emeraldlawncare]

Common Lawn Disease and Treatments in Illinois

Lawn diseases can quickly turn a lush, vibrant yard into an eyesore. Identifying the problem early is key to treating and preventing further damage. From patchy brown spots to moldy or discolored grass, these issues often stem from fungi, bacteria, or pests that thrive in specific conditions. While some lawn diseases are seasonal, others can linger throughout the year, making it crucial to know what to look for and how to address it. In this guide, we’ll explore common lawn diseases, their causes, and effective treatments to help restore the health of your lawn. With the right care, you can keep your outdoor space looking green and thriving.

Our Lawn Care Services in Illinois

Lawn Disease Identification & Diagnosis

Understanding lawn diseases is the first step toward healthy grass. We offer thorough lawn inspections to identify common diseases like brown patch, rust, and powdery mildew. Our team takes time to examine the symptoms, so we can pinpoint the exact problem and recommend the most effective treatment.

Targeted Lawn Treatment Solutions

Once we know the type of lawn disease, we apply tailored treatments that address the issue directly. Whether it’s a fungal infection or a pest problem, our treatments are designed to restore your lawn’s health. We use eco-friendly products that promote long-term lawn vitality, without compromising your outdoor space.

Ongoing Lawn Care & Maintenance Plans

After treating any lawn diseases, it’s important to maintain a healthy environment for your grass to thrive. Our ongoing care plans ensure your lawn receives the right nutrients and protection year-round. Regular follow-ups keep the grass strong and disease-free, preventing future issues.

Lawn Disease Prevention Advice

Prevention is key to keeping your lawn looking its best. We offer expert advice on how to protect your grass from common lawn diseases. From proper watering techniques to soil health, we provide simple, actionable tips to keep your lawn healthy and disease-free.

Identifying Common Lawn Diseases: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Spotting the early signs of lawn diseases is crucial for effective treatment. Symptoms such as yellow or brown patches, wilting grass, or unusual growth patterns can indicate underlying problems like fungi or pests. Some diseases, like brown patch or dollar spot, may show circular patterns, while others, such as powdery mildew, leave a white, powdery coating on the grass. Observing these signs promptly will help you take action before the disease spreads and causes lasting damage to your lawn. The key is to act fast—catching a problem early can often be the difference between a quick fix and a long, drawn-out recovery process.

To properly identify a lawn disease, carefully inspect the area in question, looking for changes in texture, color, or growth. It’s also helpful to know the common types of lawn diseases in your area, as some are more prevalent in specific climates or seasons. Being proactive in disease identification not only saves time but can also reduce the need for aggressive treatments, making the recovery process easier on both your lawn and the environment.

How Weather and Soil Conditions Contribute to Lawn Disease

Weather and soil conditions play a significant role in the development of lawn diseases. Excessive moisture, especially after heavy rainfall or inconsistent irrigation, can create the perfect environment for fungal growth. Similarly, high humidity, warm temperatures, and poor air circulation around the grass provide ideal conditions for various diseases like rust or powdery mildew to flourish. On the other hand, extreme heat or drought can weaken grass, leaving it vulnerable to pests and pathogens. Understanding how weather factors into lawn health is essential for preventing and managing lawn diseases effectively.

Soil conditions also affect the likelihood of disease development. Poorly-draining soil, compacted areas, or nutrient imbalances can stress the grass, making it more susceptible to infections. It’s important to regularly test and amend the soil to ensure that your lawn has the proper pH and nutrient levels. Aerating the soil and ensuring proper drainage can also go a long way in preventing disease. By managing both the weather and soil conditions, you create a healthier environment for your lawn that is less prone to disease outbreaks.

Top Lawn Diseases to Watch Out For This Season

Each season brings with it a set of lawn diseases that homeowners need to be aware of. During the warmer months, fungal infections like brown patch and dollar spot tend to thrive, often leading to unsightly brown patches on the lawn. These diseases are typically more active in humid, wet conditions and can quickly spread if left untreated. Rust and red thread are also common in cooler, wet seasons and can cause a yellowish or reddish appearance on the grass. Being aware of these diseases and recognizing their symptoms early on can save you time and effort in restoring your lawn.

In addition to fungal issues, pests like grubs can also wreak havoc on your lawn, especially in the summer. These pests feed on the roots of grass, causing it to wilt and die. Another issue to watch out for is powdery mildew, which typically affects the grass when humidity levels are high. Understanding which diseases are prevalent in your region and their seasonal patterns allows you to take the right preventative measures and act quickly if symptoms appear. A little knowledge about seasonal diseases goes a long way in keeping your lawn healthy year-round.

Effective Treatments for Common Lawn Diseases

Treating lawn diseases requires a tailored approach depending on the type of problem you’re facing. For fungal infections like brown patch or dollar spot, fungicides can be effective when applied at the right time, typically early in the disease’s lifecycle. Organic fungicides made from natural ingredients like neem oil or sulfur can also provide a safer alternative, especially for those concerned with the environment. It’s important to read the labels carefully and follow application instructions to ensure proper use and effectiveness. Additionally, ensuring your lawn is properly watered and fertilized can aid in faster recovery and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

For pest-related diseases like grub infestations, targeted treatments such as nematodes or insecticidal soaps can be helpful. In some cases, soil amendments and aeration may improve root health and promote grass recovery. Regardless of the treatment method you choose, it’s vital to apply it consistently and monitor the progress regularly. While chemical treatments can offer quick results, be sure to consider long-term solutions that focus on building lawn resilience and preventing future outbreaks. Healthy soil and proper maintenance are key to minimizing the need for chemical interventions over time.

Natural Remedies for Lawn Disease Prevention

If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly approach to lawn disease prevention, natural remedies can provide a viable alternative. One of the most effective methods is using compost to enrich the soil and improve its nutrient content. Healthy, well-balanced soil supports robust grass growth, making it less susceptible to disease. Additionally, regularly watering your lawn early in the morning helps prevent prolonged moisture on the grass, reducing the chances of fungal growth. Mulching grass clippings is another beneficial practice that helps retain moisture and adds nutrients to the soil, creating a healthier lawn overall.

You can also apply organic fungicides like baking soda or garlic-based sprays to combat fungal growth. These natural treatments are less harsh on the environment and can be just as effective as chemical options when used correctly. Aerating your lawn regularly helps with drainage and reduces compaction, providing a healthier environment for grass roots. By embracing these natural practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of lawn diseases while maintaining a thriving and eco-friendly outdoor space.

Emerald Lawn Care in Illinois

Lawn diseases don’t have to take over your yard if you catch them early and take action. From fungal infections to pests, understanding the common diseases and their causes is key to treating and preventing further damage. By identifying symptoms early, using the right treatments, and maintaining a healthy lawn, you can ensure your outdoor space stays green and vibrant. Whether you choose natural remedies or chemical treatments, it’s important to choose the right solution for your lawn’s needs. If you’re facing a tough lawn disease problem or need expert help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Let’s keep your lawn healthy and disease-free!

Emerald Lawn Care, Inc.

574 Wheeling Rd

Wheeling, IL 60090

(847) 392-7097

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[pickledpopcorn]

The greatest thing about the weather being above freezing for the past few days? My compost spins so easily now and is toasty enough to survive another drop! (The browns finally had the opportunity to drink up all the excess water from all the snow & rain we've had too!)

[leaf4e]

mold in a room

ignore the weird cut offs not all can be placed properly because of the block it actually is