climate

Rainfall trends continue to remain dry, but drought is still only used to describe conditions in the western states at this time.  However, rainfall totals at the Zanesville Airport are only 13.11 inches for the year, which is nearly at midpoint on the calendar, and presumably is a significant deficit.  Isolated storms have benefited some, but this is a trend we are watching.  Reports out of western Ohio include much more severe rainfall and storms.

The growing degree calculator from Ohio State shows 1,333 growing degree days for the 43701 zipcode today.  This is higher than any of the past six years.  A review of the daily temperature record indicates the majority of above average heat accumulation occurred in March and April.

The crabgrass in my yard is coming in strong.  At this point, it is what it will be for the year since any crabgrass control is really an early spring activity if using a preemergent herbicide.  Lawn repair is best left as a late summer and early fall activity to maintain a healthy vibrant lawn to manage for subsequent years.

Lightning bugs have put on a display the last few evenings.  Even the dog likes to sit and watch.  Here’s a few facts to share with your friends: there are 170 species of fireflies in the U.S. and Canada, mostly in the East and South.  Different species of fireflies will flash with different patterns and the “light” occurs from a mixture of chemicals and enzymes all as part of the mating process.

Sources:

Midwestern Regional Climate Center, https://mrcc.illinois.edu/

OSU Growing Degree Day Calculator, https://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/gdd/

Crabgrass Control in Lawns for Homeowners in the Northern US, https://njaes.rutgers.edu/fs1308/

Lightning Bugs, Lightningbugs | Horticulture and Home Pest News (iastate.edu)