Tips for Keeping Your Lawn Green in Summer

May 29th 2018

Summer is a time for beautiful blue skies and lush green lawns, but what if your lawn is starting to look a little on the dry side? No need to panic, these simple tips can help you bring your lawn back to life in no time!

green lawnmower on grass

Know When to Mow

Believe it or not, lawnmowers can actually scorch your grass permanently. Mowing in the afternoon is especially dangerous, since this is when the sun is at its hottest and has a higher chance of burning the lawn. While mowing should be done frequently, timing is very important to keep in mind. It is also a good rule to keep your grass at a minimum of 3 inches from the ground, as anything shorter could also lead to lawn damage.

dewdrops on grass in the dark

Water Wisely

If you live in a drier climate, you may need to water the lawn more frequently to ensure adequate moisture and prevent your plants from going “dormant” as they would in the winter. However, as with mowing, timing is extremely important. While it may be most convenient to water during the day, the best time to water is either early morning or late evening. The trick is to provide the water at a time where the sun won’t quickly evaporate it back into the air. Early mornings and late evenings tend to have cooler temperatures and a lack of harsh sunlight, allowing your lawn to be fully nourished by the water.

pair of black shoes on a grass lawn

Mind the Foot Traffic

Many lawns have that one little corner or area that’s perfect for using as a shortcut to the house. However, over time, the grass in this area can become worn and you’ll start to notice the path becoming more and more apparent. There are a few ways to combat this, including temporarily rerouting traffic until the area heals or putting down garden stones if you’d like to make the shortcut a little more permanent. You can also over-seed the area(s) once early autumn hits which will help to recover and thicken up the grass for next year.

closeup of grass growing from dirt

Fertilize & Protect

Try using a slow-release fertilizer to replenish nutrients if your lawn is starting to fade and dry out. Some can even make your grass less susceptible to burns in the summer. If you start to notice brown patches that won’t go away, however, there might be an insect infestation. The summer is no stranger to insects that can damage your lawn, so it’s best to know the early signs and take action.