Living in the Southern USA why do some people burn there yard(sod grass) in the spring ?

Question

Is there a benefit to this and if so where does one get a torch to do this?

Answer 1

Burning what lies there after winter serves two purposes: One, it rids the yard of any dead plant life, allowing the soil to be used by the new brush that will grow there. Two, the ash from organic material being burned is known to act as a form of fertilizer, though nothing compared to the engineered fertilizers of today. Native Americans used to clear out entire areas of forest and wild brush to make way for new plains growth the next season. However, ecological groups have largely denounced this practice, citing the pollutants created by burning yard waste. It's still practiced, though most settlements outside the fairly to extremely rural have ordinances in place prohibiting the burning of yard waste without a permit, if not all-together.

Answer 2

Ezmin is right. Burning in spring kills off most broadleaf weeds and provides nutrients for the grass coming up. Mother nature has used that practice for several thousands of years. ( Millions?)
If you want to do it, CAREFULLY burn a ring around the area you want to burn. Make it at Least 6'-10' wide, then burn the rest. Don't do it on a windy day. Check local regulations on burning, probably need a permit and supervision.

Answer 3

Makes the new grass come out strong and healthy. You don't need a torch, yard has to be dry, then it will burn even all the way across.

Answer 4

Four things why they do basing on my own experience.

First, for the new growth to grow vigorously, easily and freely. Second, the ashes from the burnt grass will serve as fertiliser tonic for the new growth. Third, you don't ever need de-thatching anymore. Lastly, you can easily put topping on your soil.

It's beneficial you would say basing on this effect but the consequences you make to the environment is not worth it. You'd kill a lot of beneficial bacteria and insects, and so on. Not to mention the green house gasses you'd create doing this. Let nature takes care of it's own.

Answer 5

it truly is a touch chillier right this moment, severe of 40 5, i imagine, besides the undeniable fact that it truly is actual coming! we are having a marvelous sluggish thaw which will make Spring planting more suitable positive. even as it thaws too quick we finally end up with un-doable airborne dirt and dirt for weeks! The solar is shining, some birds are making a music and the timber are starting up to bud.... i'm waiting for the crocuses to pop through! Wisconsin takes a lengthy time period to make the transition! LOL!

Answer 6

It kills off the old grass and makes it easier for the new grass to grow. Try using one of those torches that are used by roofers. They work good. But make sure you are allowed to do this legally. In the USA, it's illegal in most places.

Answer 7

Burning sterilises the soil. This helps reduce weed seed and also kills fungus spores that cause brown patch. Brown patch is a fungal disease that is common in St. Augustine grass in the south.

Answer 8

I don't know why they do it but it is done with a lighter and lighting fluid. we can do it because the ground is moist and we won't cause any huge fires or anything. I hate it because I can not stand the smell and it is illegal, but people do it anyways.
It is mainly done around ditches, I guess so that the weeds won't come back. But it is that time of the year right now when it is being done.

Answer 9

the ash is potash that works like a fertilize making the grass greener.

Answer 10

I have heard that it makes the grass grow thicker and better.Torches at home depot