• Water as needed. Oklahoma winds will dry things out quickly.
• Give your plantings their best chance by contacting your local county extension agent for directions on getting a soil sample before you plant. The results will save you time and money in the long run.
• Do Not put mulch up your tree's trunk. It promotes disease, bad bugs and an unhealthy tree. Staking a newly planted tree for more than 12 months will only promote a weakened root system that has difficulty dealing with Oklahoma winds.
• Fertilize Oklahoma bermuda grass May 1, June 1, July 1, August 1, and September 1. If you use slow release fertilizers or organic supplements as I do, you can skip the July and September applications. You will also not have to water as much or mow as frequently using these products. Organics will save you time and money plus your lawn will be just as lush and green.
• Put a mulching blade on your mower so that you no longer have to bag your grass clippings. Instead let the mulching blade cut the grass into smaller pieces so that can be left on the lawn. This method puts nitrogen back into the soil.