This episode covers the key April service priorities, including:

• pre-emergent and crabgrass control timing
• spring fertilization and green-up strategy
• early broadleaf weed control
• spotting winter damage and thin turf
• property walk-through best practices
• upsell opportunities through client communication

If you’re a lawn tech, crew leader, or owner-operator running routes this spring, this is your field guide for what needs to be done right now to stay ahead of the season.

Turf’s Up Radio — elevating and educating the green industry.

“Hey pros, it’s time for Traffic on the Turf — brought to you by Turf’s Up Radio… your industry, your station.

We’re rolling into November, and while the leaves are falling, your lawns still need attention. Here’s what should be on your radar:

• Cool-season lawns: Keep mowing until growth stops. Drop your height a notch for that final cut to prevent matting under snow.
• Fertilization: This is your last chance to feed cool-season turf — hit it with a slow-release nitrogen to strengthen roots before dormancy.
• Leaf management: Don’t leave debris. Mulch it fine or remove it to avoid smothering turf.
• Weed control: Post-emergent broadleaf treatments still work while soil temps are above 50°F.
• Equipment care: Start winterizing blowers, mowers, and sprayers. Drain fuel systems or stabilize them for storage.

If you’re managing warm-season turf down south, ease off fertilizing now and prep for aeration and topdressing as temps drop.

That’s your Traffic on the Turf for November — powered by Turf’s Up Radio, your industry, your station.”

Hello and welcome to Traffic on the Turf, your weekly update for landscaping pros to keep lawns looking their best.

Right now, in early August, it’s critical to focus on late summer lawn care strategies. This means applying a balanced fertilizer with higher potassium to strengthen turfgrass roots for fall. Also, watch for signs of disease caused by heat and humidity—fungicide treatments may be needed on susceptible lawns.

Make sure your crews are adjusting mowing heights to avoid scalping stressed grass. The best products to use this time of year include slow-release fertilizers and organic soil conditioners that boost moisture retention.

Keep an eye out for supply chain bottlenecks—some specialty fertilizers and fungicides are running low due to high demand this season. Pricing has also been rising, so consider adjusting your service rates accordingly.

That’s your Traffic on the Turf update. Stay tuned for more tips next week to keep your clients’ lawns thriving!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY TOWA TOOLS

(Weekly Segment – Turf’s Up Radio)

Hey pros — this is your weekly Traffic on the Turf report, brought to you by Towa Tools — built for pros who don’t stop moving.

Let’s take a quick spin around what’s happening in the field this week:

🚧 EQUIPMENT BACKLOGS SLOWING SOME CREWS

Still waiting on that new mower or battery trimmer? You’re not alone.

Several dealers across the Southeast are reporting shipping delays on key parts and machines — especially for ride-ons and commercial-grade battery tools.

If you’re expanding or replacing equipment this summer, order early… and keep your backups in rotation.

💼 EMPLOYEE TURNOVER ON THE RISE IN MID-SEASON

Contractors from coast to coast are reporting a mid-summer slump in staffing.

Burnout, heat stress, and the pull of "easier" jobs are driving up turnover.

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to offer a mid-season bonus, a few cold perks — and a reminder of why your team matters.

📍ALL EYES ON ORLANDO

The buzz is already building for The Landscape Show, coming this September.

Vendors, manufacturers, and educators are locking in spots — and Turf’s Up Radio will be broadcasting live from the floor.

Make sure you're there, or tuned in, for the latest tools, plants, and tech heading into fall.

This Traffic on the Turf segment is powered by Towa Tools — the choice of pros who want precision, durability, and battery-powered performance that lasts all day.

Towa Tools… built to work.

⚠️ Heads up, pros! If you're rolling out with trailers, mowers, or mulch — here’s what’s happening on the green industry grid today:

🚧 In the Midwest, last night’s storms left soft ground and blocked roads in some rural areas. Watch for detours and avoid lawn sinkholes when backing that trailer in.

🛻 Down South, early morning heat’s got everyone rushing to the supplier yards. Expect backups between 6 and 8 a.m. — and don’t forget to double-check your load before heading out.

🪵 On the East Coast, tree crews are jamming the side streets. More chippers and cranes than usual — so take it slow and stay alert for lane closures and sudden stops.

🌿 Speaking of gear and grit — are you ready for Equip Expo 2025? It's the industry's biggest event, packed with the latest machines, tech, and hands-on demos. It all goes down October 15–17 in Louisville, Kentucky. Register now at equipexposition.com and be part of the action.

That’s your Traffic on the Turf, brought to you by Equip Expo 2025 — where the pros go to grow.

TURF TEACHER SOCIAL MEDIA:

https://linktr.ee/turfteacher

THE TURFETTE SOCIAL MEDIA

https://linktr.ee/theturfette

"Pro Tip of the Week: Use ground protection mats + clear traffic planning to shield lawns during construction projects.

1. Identify and flag access routes before work starts—mark out where trucks and equipment will drive to keep traffic contained
2. Lay down ground protection mats—heavy-duty polyethylene turf mats or composite mats interlock to form temporary roadways that bear vehicle loads without rutting or crushing grass
3. Avoid construction on wet soil—schedule heavy equipment movement during dry spells; damp turf compacts more easily and is more prone to damage
4. After the project wraps up, core‑aerate compacted areas, overseed bare spots, and topdress to restore air, water, and root-growth conditions

HOST (wrap-up):

"Let’s break it down: planned traffic lanes + sturdy mats + dry conditions + post‑construction recovery = minimal turf damage. Residential lawn-care pros—use this strategy to save your clients time and money and keep lawns looking fresh all summer.

Tune in next time for tips on recovery overseeding blends or best mat materials and rental sources!"

✅ Why It Works

• Compaction control: Mats distribute heavy loads, preventing deep ruts and soil densification.
• Preserved root health: Aeration and overseeding after work support root-zone recovery.
• Smart scheduling: Dry-season work reduces turf stress and damage.

I’M DARREN GRUNER, AND IF YOU’RE NOT ADJUSTING YOUR MOWING HEIGHT RIGHT NOW – YOU’RE DRIVING IN THE WRONG LANE.

RAISE THOSE BLADES! LONGER GRASS SHADES ROOTS, REDUCES STRESS, AND HELPS LOCK IN MOISTURE.

NEXT UP – IRRIGATION CHECKS. SUMMER HEAT MEANS TIMERS NEED FINE-TUNING. EARLY MORNING WATERING ONLY – NO MIDDAY SPRINKLER SHOWERS!

AND DON’T FORGET – NOW’S THE TIME TO SPOT-TREAT WEEDS AND KEEP FERTILIZER LIGHT TO AVOID BURNING.

STAY SHARP, STAY HYDRATED, AND STAY GREEN.

YOU’RE IN THE FAST LANE WITH TURF’S UP RADIO. I’M DARREN GRUNER, AND THIS HAS BEEN YOUR TRAFFIC ON THE TURF!