Posted July 20th, 2023

During the hot summer months, it's important to take care of your lawn to keep it healthy and vibrant. Here are some helpful tips to maintain your lawn during this period:

Watering: Proper watering is crucial during hot weather. Water your lawn deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth, which promotes drought resistance. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal diseases. Avoid watering in the evening, as it can promote fungal growth.

Mowing: Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting and mow your grass slightly taller during summer. Taller grass shades the soil, helping it retain moisture and reducing weed growth. Never remove more than one-third of the grass height in a single mowing.

Mulching: Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. They act as a natural mulch, helping to retain moisture and provide nutrients to the soil.

Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for summer use. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers during hot weather, as they can stress the grass. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for application rates and timings.

Weed control: Keep an eye out for weeds and address them promptly. Hand-pulling or spot-treating with herbicides can be effective. Be cautious when using herbicides and follow the instructions carefully to prevent damage to the grass.

Aeration: Aerating your lawn improves water penetration and airflow to the roots. Consider aerating your lawn before the summer heat sets in to alleviate compaction and promote a healthy root system.

Shade and sun protection: If you have areas of your lawn that receive excessive sun exposure, consider providing temporary shade. Using shade cloth or strategically placing umbrellas or outdoor furniture can help protect the grass from scorching.

Avoid heavy traffic: Limit heavy foot traffic on your lawn during hot weather, as it can cause stress and compaction. Redirect foot traffic to walkways or designated paths.

Pest control: Monitor your lawn for pests, such as grubs or insects. Promptly treat them using appropriate insecticides or organic pest control methods to prevent damage to the grass.

Avoid overwatering: While it's important to provide sufficient water, be cautious not to overwater your lawn. Overwatering can lead to shallow root growth and increased susceptibility to diseases. Monitor the soil moisture level and adjust watering accordingly.

Remember, different types of grass have specific requirements, so it's crucial to consider the needs of your lawn. Additionally, local climate conditions may affect the care routine.