Top 5 lawn tips for summer
5 tips for maintaining a healthy lawn during the summer months:
- Proper watering: Water your lawn deeply but infrequently. Early morning is the best time to water as it reduces evaporation and allows the grass to dry before nightfall, minimizing the risk of diseases. Watering deeply encourages deep root growth, which helps grass withstand heat and drought stress.
- Mowing practices: Adjust your mower height to leave grass taller in the summer, typically around 3-4 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing moisture loss and helping to prevent weeds from germinating. Additionally, avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height in a single mow to avoid stressing the lawn.
- Fertilization: Apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer early in the summer to promote healthy growth without causing excessive flushes that can stress the grass in hot weather. Follow recommended application rates and timings based on your grass type and local conditions.
- Aeration: Aerating your lawn helps alleviate soil compaction, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots more effectively. Consider aerating your lawn once a year, particularly if you have heavy clay soil or high foot traffic.
- Weed control: Regularly inspect your lawn for weeds and address them promptly to prevent them from spreading. Hand pulling or spot treating with herbicides can be effective methods, but always follow label instructions and consider using organic or environmentally friendly options if possible.
By following these tips, you can help keep your lawn healthy and vibrant throughout the summer season.