I got the Toro TimeMaster back from the shop this weekend (second time I had to replace one of the spindles and some other related parts. ($180.
The first time was covered under warranty.). Anyway, I didn't delay. Out of the SUV and straight onto the lawn after only a 10 week break this year. I could have easily mowed three weeks ago if the mower wasn't still in the shop. In spots the grass was 6 in tall, in other shady areas it was still dormant.
Overall, the lawn looks amazing. Thick, green and lush. The nitrogen is definitely doing it's job. Looks like early January was the right call. When I started this thread I was seriously considering calling the N off again, but I am really glad I stuck to it. Even though the lawn was probably still growing slowly when I made the final application it worked out great. It's almost comically green, especially next to all the neighbors' lawns. I may start adding some Milo just to keep it fed and the roots growing (?).
The yard is basically weed free, although there are scattered areas of those weeds with the seeds that "explode" from the stalk when you hit them. Those disappear mid-spring if memory serves me and there isn't much I can do other than enjoy the shower of seeds.
I get damn good advice from this forum, but I think those of us in the transition zone need to be aware that the majority of the "cool seasoners" that frequent the forum may experience different timing and conditions than we do. I know we have all been somewhat aware of this, but after a few years of trial and error I have learned that everything seems to be 3-4 weeks off from the Northerners, at least down here in Kentucky.
