Soil sampling today for a healthier lawn next spring 10-15-07

Has your old lawn mower seen its better days? Have you longed for a mower you could ride instead of push? Are you tired of hand clipping along the drive or around trees and shrubs?

Lawn equipment dealers are very much like automobile dealers this time of year. It is easier to pass the savings on to customer than to hold this year’s models over when new models will appear before next year’s lawn season. As the major chain stores begin stocking their shelves with Christmas items most of their lawn equipment and supplies have to be removed and stored. Therefore, they offer great discounts to customers to purchase this equipment now.

Riding lawn mowers are often reduced as much as $500 or more and many other pieces of equipment and supplies are marked with 30% - 40% discounts. If your old equipment is worn out and you will have to buy new for next spring anyway, it might be a bargain even if you had to buy on credit and pay some interest charges.

Unlike automobiles, there most likely will not be a trade-in value if you bought a 2007 model or 2008 year model lawn mower, weed eater, etc. So, as long as the item you have an interest in meets the requirements of your needs, why not take advantage of saving some money. And if you have resistance convincing a spouse of purchasing lawn equipment this time of year, you might mention that the money saved will be dedicated to buying a gift for them.

Published October 8, 2007

Dr. Wayne Wells is an Extension Professor and Turfgrass Specialist. His mailing address is Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Mail Stop 9555, Mississippi State, MS 39762. wwells@ext.msstate.edu