Healthy Summer Lawn Tips

Summer is here, and with it comes all the sunshine and outdoor activities that we love. However, the heat and dry weather can take a toll on our lawns. It’s essential to take the right measures to maintain a healthy lawn all year round, but especially in summer. As a homeowner, the last thing you want is a dry, yellow lawn that looks unsightly and is unusable. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, keep reading for our top tips for a healthy summer lawn.

Water your lawn wisely

Watering your lawn is crucial in maintaining a healthy green lawn. However, how much water and when you water your lawn is equally important. On average, your lawn needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Watering deeply and infrequently is the most efficient way to keep your lawn healthy. This helps the roots to develop and make your grass more resilient to drought. Frequent watering with less water causes shallow roots and less resilience to drought. It’s best to schedule watering early in the morning or late evening so the water gets a chance to seep into the soil without evaporating.

Mow at the right height

Mowing lawns regularly is necessary to keep them looking neat and tidy. But cutting them too short can severely damage them during summertime. That’s because grass blades produce nutrients needed to make food for the plant through photosynthesis. When grass blades are cut too short, the blades’ surface area is reduced, and the plant produces less food. Taller grass blades also shade the soil, reducing water evaporation and soil temperature. During the hot season, you should increase the height of the mower to about 3-4 inches, which protects the grassroots from drying out and keeps the soil cool.

Fertilize wisely

Fertilizing lawns is an essential part of keeping them healthy. It encourages growth and helps to maintain a balanced PH level of the soil. A good mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium will keep your grass growing robustly. Avoid fertilizing your lawn when the temperature is above 85°F; this can cause burning of the lawn. Try using a slow-release fertilizer to release nutrients over an extended period. This prevents stressing the grass during hot weather. If you are unsure of when to fertilize your lawn, it’s best to seek the advice of a lawn care expert.

Aerate

Aerating your lawn to improve airflow and water absorption, and increase the growth of good bacteria can help keep it healthy. Aerating breaks up compact soil, allowing roots to expand freely. Research shows that the best time to aerate your lawn is during the growing season in late spring or early summer.

Manage pests and weeds

Summer is the ideal breeding ground for pests and weeds that can ruin your lawn’s health and appearance. It’s essential to keep an eye out for any signs of infestation or weed growth. You can use organic and eco-friendly methods such as mulching and mowing to control weeds or use pesticides if needed. Always read the labels, use the recommended dosage, and avoid using them on hot, dry days.

Reduce foot traffic

Heavy foot traffic can damage your lawn during the summer months as it compacts the soil and reduces access to nutrients and water. It’s crucial to control foot traffic; you can educate family members and guests to use designated pathways instead of trampling over the lawn. Also, avoid placing heavy objects on the grass, such as furniture and vehicles.

Give your lawn some shade

Constant exposure to the sun’s rays is one of the most significant challenges of maintaining a healthy lawn in summer. One way to solve this problem is to create some shade for your lawn. You can do it using umbrellas, large trees, or installing shade sails. Providing shade will protect your lawn from the sun’s intense rays, reduce water evaporation, and encourage healthier growth.

The sight of a lush, green lawn is incredibly satisfying for a homeowner. A healthy lawn enhances your home’s curb appeal and gives you a space to relax and enjoy outdoor activities. Maintaining your lawn, especially in the hot summer months, requires some attention and hard work, but it’s worth the effort.

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