Hello Hannah

Just to be clear, MSU Extension does not send someone to assess the best approaches. They don't conduct site visits. The Ask Extension program does online responses.

What are the best maintenance and preventative procedures for their Japanese maple and silver maple? They should get an on-site assessment from a certified arborist. To find a certified arborist by Zip Code, go to this link:

Find an Arborist

CRABAPPLE TREE ISSUE

The issue is apple scab - Apple scab fungus on backyard crabapple trees can leave plants with few leaves, but the tree is not dying. More information at this link:

Why is my crabapple tree losing leaves? - Fruit & Nuts

DEALING WITH CRABGRASS

In Michigan, the most effective way to tackle crabgrass is a mix of competent lawn care and timely herbicide use. Here's a breakdown based on university extension sources:

Prevention First

Mow high: Keep your lawn around 3 inches tall to shade out crabgrass seedlings. More information at this link:

CONTROLLING CRABGRASS IN HOME LAWNS

Fertilize properly: Apply 2–4 lbs of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft annually, ideally in two fall applications. More information at this link:

CONTROLLING CRABGRASS IN HOME LAWNS

Water wisely: Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong turf roots and discourages crabgrass. More information at this link:

e1509-1981.pdf

Timing Matters

Pre-emergent herbicides: Apply in early spring, typically mid-March to mid-April, before crabgrass germinates. Use a product with slow-release nitrogen if it's a “weed and feed” mix. More information at this link:

CONTROLLING CRABGRASS IN HOME LAWNS

Post-emergent herbicides: If crabgrass has already emerged, use products like Quinclorac, Fenoxaprop-ethyl, or Mesotrione. These are most effective when crabgrass is young and not yet tillered. More information at this link:

Controlling crabgrass after it emerges - MSU Extension

When to Skip Herbicides

After mid-July, crabgrass is usually too mature for herbicides to work well. At that point, let it run its course—it’ll die off with the first frost. More information at this link:

CONTROLLING CRABGRASS IN HOME LAWNS

Any other questions, please let me know. I hope the above information helps!