I read today that sugar is good for lawns and bad for weeds. That it helps the micro organisms, bacteria and fungus that is really hard on weeds. Anyone know about this?
Sugar and molasses applications are being done by some farmers and golf courses but it should be done with some caution by most homeowners.
Adding sugar or molasses to lawns or plants will promote beneficial fungi and bacteria activity/reproduction in the soil which will eventually lead to an increase in nutrient uptake by their roots. Your lawn will definitely look a little healthier within a few days after an application BUT only for a short time.
There are 3 important things to consider before adding sugar to your lawn;
1) Adding sugars can create more harm than good because once applied to the soil, it will initiate the germination of diseases (such as root rots) that can attack and kill the roots of plants.
2) The sudden increase of beneficial microbes might be good for the plant in the short-term but as the food source is depleted, the microbes die off quickly and their populations will eventually be lower than before the sugars were applied....leading to a disruption in the soil's natural ecosystem.. a slow-down in the plant's growth, a decrease in nutrient uptake by the roots and the plant's ability to defend itself against diseases because of the gradual decline in beneficial microbes in the soil.
3) Another thing to consider is that sugars could also invite pests (such as ants & wasps) in and around your lawns.
In my opinion, you're better off broadcasting more compost and a little manure over your lawns than using sugars.
Hope this answered your question.
-Certified Professional Crop Consultant with over 30 years of experience and a Degree in Plant Science
Anne in Portland OR
"Weeds are flowers too, once you get to know them" Eyeore from Winnie the Pooh
I am allergic to bees and that sort of thing...don't think it would be good to attract even more to my yard. First I heard of this...I am going to do the compost still too.
I knew my farmgirl friends would have the answer! Thanks ladies! I have a horse farm that is willing to let me take the stall leavings so I am going to start a super rich compost heap going and by fall I should have some really great mulch!
Sugar for lawns?
Posted - Jul 10 2008 : 3:52:19 PM
