october 2025
As we head into October, we will continue treating for weeds and applying our custom blended slow release liquid fertilizer.
We utilize liquid fertilizers for a variety of reasons, but the main one is due to their role in safeguarding our environment.. The St. Johns River is an irreplaceable resource and at Curtis Pest Control, our commitment extends beyond just optimizing our clients' lawns; we are equally dedicated to protecting our environment.. It’s no secret that slow release Nitrogen and Phosphates can be harmful, hence, ”the green river”. Because we use a liquid source of Nitrogen the plant takes it in quickly and leaching is less likely, decreasing the chance of a harmful effect on the environment. In short, little to no Phosphorus helps prevent the possibility of leaching into our rivers and groundwater.
Additionally, our winters frequently feature spring-like weather mixed with frost and freezes—keeping you guessing with an unpredictable mix of conditions! That type of weather promotes sporadic new growth leaving your lawn highly susceptible to damage when we receive additional frosts/freezes. Likewise, when a granular, slow release Nitrogen fertilizer is applied it remains in the turf much longer which promotes new growth, making it highly susceptible to frost/freeze damage. On the other hand, when a quick release liquid fertilizer is instead applied, the grass goes dormant and stays that way, greatly lessening the chance of frost/freeze damage. Put simply, dormancy is essential for our St. Augustine grass lawns —it’s important to remember that it is a warm season, sub-tropical plant that is NOT meant to stay green year round.
Lastly, in addition to our state pest control licenses and certifications, as mandated by the state we are also licensed to apply fertilizers. Ultimately this means that we, as professionals, must use “best management practices” when applying fertilizers. We at Curtis Pest Control have always been pro-active in all aspects of our industry, including best management practices. To sum it up, we want to do what is best for your lawn, the environment and what is in keeping with our industry’s requirements.
As the cooler temperatures slowly approach and our daylight lingers just a bit longer, now is the ideal time to assess your landscaping with a discerning eye. You still have time to evaluate its function and curb appeal and then make the appropriate changes. Following are some end of year pointers...
Are any of your plantings too tall, or perhaps poorly placed? Ideally, you want your plantings to be no higher than 2/3 the height of your home at its corners. You want to avoid plantings too close to your home’s foundation, or too complex for you to maintain. You may find you want to add appeal with interesting textures, colors and elements, such as a water feature. Whatever you decide, have fun and make your lawn and home a reflection of your personality.
Remember that poinsettias require their last application of fertilizer this month. We recommend using a 8-10-10 formulation at the rate of one tablespoon per foot of plant height.
Don't forget that slugs and snails may still be active. They can do a lot of damage to your plants in a very short amount of time so be on the lookout for these creatures. There are effective baits available at most home and garden centers or you can opt to go all natural and use the beer-in-a-jar-lid treatment.
During this season, applying mulch is an excellent ounce of prevention for your garden. It helps to protect your plantings from the cold weather and aids in holding moisture in the soil. Pine straw and leaves (free of disease) make the perfect mulch.
Certain tender plants and some flowering plants and shrubs should not be pruned this time of year. Late pruning can render tender plants, such as Ixora, Plumbago and Hibiscus, vulnerable to the cold. Additionally, late pruning of Camellias, Poinsettias and Azaleas will prevent buds from being produced next year.
