8 Tips To Ensure Your Grass Stays Healthy In The Heat

Caring for and watering your grass during hot temperatures and periods of little rain can be challenging, but with the right practices, you can keep your lawn healthy and green. Here are 8 tips to help you manage your grass during these conditions:

1. Water Deeply and Infrequently

· Frequency: Water your lawn deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Typically, aim for 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.

· Timing: Water early in the morning, between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m., to reduce evaporation and allow the grass to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.

2. Mow High and Less Often

· Height: Set your mower blade to a higher setting (3 to 4 inches). Taller grass provides shade to the soil, reducing evaporation and promoting deeper root growth.

· Mowing Frequency: Aim to mow your lawn when it grows about one-third longer than its recommended height. This may mean mowing every 5-7 days, but in slower growth periods, it could extend to 10-14 days.

· Avoid Midday Heat: Mow your lawn during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to minimize stress on the grass.

· Clean Cuts: Ensure your mower blades are sharp to make clean cuts. Dull blades can tear the grass, making it more susceptible to disease and stress.

· Alternate Directions: Change your mowing pattern each time you mow to avoid compacting the soil and to ensure even growth.

3. Fertilize Wisely

· Type of Fertilizer: Use slow-release fertilizers that provide nutrients gradually and avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can stress the grass in hot weather.

· Timing: Apply fertilizer in the cooler parts of the growing season, such as early spring or fall, rather than during peak heat.

4. Mulch Clippings

· Benefit: Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing to act as natural mulch, helping to retain moisture and provide nutrients back to the soil.

5. Manage Foot Traffic

· Limit Use: Reduce heavy foot traffic on the lawn during hot, dry periods to prevent soil compaction and damage to the grass.

6. Monitor for Pests and Diseases

· Vigilance: Keep an eye out for signs of pests and diseases, which can become more prevalent in stressed lawns. Treat promptly to prevent further damage.

7. Use Drought-Resistant Grass Varieties

· Variety Selection: Consider planting drought-resistant grass species, such as tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, which are better adapted to withstand hot and dry conditions.

8. Adjust Irrigation System

· Efficiency: Ensure your irrigation system is functioning properly and delivering water evenly across your lawn. Fix any leaks or broken sprinklers.

· Smart Controllers: Use smart irrigation controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions to optimize water usage.

Caring for your lawn in hot temperatures and with little rain requires a combination of proper watering techniques, mowing practices, and soil management. By following these tips, you can help your grass survive and thrive even in challenging conditions. Remember to always adjust your lawn care practices based on the specific needs of your grass type and local climate conditions.

At Golden Wolf Landscape and Design we have resources to help you manage your property through all the season. Download our free resource guide here.

Contact us at (908) 578-1179. You can also fill out a request form for a quote on our website under our “Contact Us” tab. We're looking forward to hearing from you.