For many of us, summer is the best time of year, but it’s not the best time of year for our lawns. Between the humidity and lack of precipitation, our grass can start to look like tiny hay fields during the dead of summer. But there are a few simple ways to help maintain a healthy lawn that looks vibrant throughout the summer months.
Feed your lawn on a regular basis
If you added seed and feed to your lawn in early spring, good for you! But that’s not all you should do. You need to replenish the nutrients in your yard regularly to help it stay strong and green. Apply a seed and feed mix four times annually, with roughly 4-6 weeks in between feedings to allow the nutrients to be absorbed. If your lawn has stopped growing due to a lack of rain, hold off on feeding until a solid rain occurs.
Practice the right mowing techniques
Everyone likes a well-manicured and carefully trimmed lawn, but when the humid summer hits, you need to follow a few basic mowing rules.
First, allow your lawn to grow longer and cut it less frequently. When you do mow it, raise your mower blade to eight centimeters (three inches). This height will offer your lawn’s root system more shade, which will allow it to stay cooler during the long, hot days of summer. As an added bonus, taller grass will result in root systems that are deeper and stronger, so avoid the temptation to mow too frequently.
Also, make sure to sharpen your mower blades a few times over the summer. Dull blades can damage your lawn by tearing at the blades of grass instead of cutting them, which can lead to brown tips on the grass, and an overall dull appearance.
Add more water but less frequently
It might seem like watering your grass briefly on a regular basis would be great for the lawn. The exact opposite is actually true. The better way to maintain a consistently green and healthy lawn is to water only once or twice a week. When you do water, ensure you add two to four centimeters (one to one-and-a-half inches) of water. This is especially vital during a dry spell. Constant, short watering will actually stress the lawn, causing the roots of your grass to grow shorter.
Watch when you water
Everyone has different schedules and may have to water at different times, but as a rule of thumb, don’t water during the hottest parts of the day. If you can, water at 5 a.m. If you have irrigation, set it for this time. An early morning watering allows your lawn to properly dry out throughout the day. This will help it to avoid burning during the hot summer afternoons.
Hire a professional lawn service company
Sure, you’re busy, but if a green lawn is important to you, there is a way. Call the professionals at Weed-A-Way to help. There’s still time to set up a lawn care service package that will suit you and your lawn’s needs. Our professional, dedicated and caring staff are here to help you have the healthy lawn that you and your family deserve. Contact us today then sit back and enjoy the summer with a beautiful, healthy lawn!
