The almost constant rain/drizzle/wet conditions coupled with early unseasonably cool temperatures have hindered progress in fall maintenance. All is not lost though because warmer and drier weather is in the forecast.
Seeding: It’s too late to seed throughout IN to expect expect germination and enough maturation of the grass to survive winter temperatures. A previous Turf Tip at http://www.agry.purdue.edu/turf/tips/2007/10_25seed.html explains the options left.
Broadleaf weed control: It is important for the spray of any broadleaf weed herbicide to dry on the leaf at least 6- 8 hours, preferably 24 hours as stated on the labels. Leaf curling should start 10-14 days after application so if you don’t see any by then from previous sprays, you might consider a second application. As stated in an earlier turf tip, broadleaf weed control should still be effective through the end of October to early November.
Fertilizer: Any fall fertilizer applications will help a cool-season turf dramatically. The last nitrogen application of the year should be around the final mowing and should be all fast release N like urea, generally 1.0-1.25 lbs N/1000 sq ft. If your last application needs to be applied earlier while the turf is still actively growing, consider a fertilizer with 20% or more slow release N.
Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to biehlj@purdue.edu