Tips for Caring for Your Lawn During the Scorching Summer Heat
Maintaining a lush, green lawn during the hot summer months can be challenging. The intense heat can stress your grass, turning it brown and brittle. However, with the right care, you can keep your lawn looking healthy and vibrant all summer long. Here are some essential lawn care tips to help you care for your lawn during the scorching summer heat:
Water Wisely
Watering your lawn is crucial, but doing it wisely makes all the difference. Early morning watering, ideally between 6 AM and 10 AM, ensures that the water penetrates deeply into the soil before the sun’s heat causes evaporation. Aim to water your lawn deeply and infrequently rather than lightly and frequently. This encourages deep root growth, making your grass more drought-resistant.
Mow Smartly
Adjust your mowing practices to better suit summer conditions. Set your mower blades higher, leaving your grass longer (around 3-4 inches). Longer grass provides shade for the soil, reducing water evaporation and protecting the roots from extreme heat. Additionally, make sure your mower blades are sharp to avoid tearing the grass, which can lead to brown, ragged edges.
Mulch Clippings
Instead of bagging your grass clippings, leave them on the lawn. Mulching helps retain moisture, adds nutrients back into the soil, and reduces the amount of waste going to landfills. Grass clippings break down quickly and can provide up to 25% of your lawn’s fertilizer needs.
Fertilize Sparingly
Summer is not the ideal time for heavy fertilization. Excessive fertilizer can burn your grass and promote shallow root growth. If you must fertilize, choose a slow-release fertilizer and apply it lightly. Always water thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent the grass from burning and to help the nutrients penetrate the soil.
Control Weeds
Weeds compete with your grass for water and nutrients, making it harder for your lawn to survive the heat. Regularly inspect your lawn for weeds and remove them promptly. For persistent weeds, consider using a targeted herbicide, but apply it carefully to avoid damaging your grass.
Provide Shade
If possible, provide temporary shade for the most vulnerable parts of your lawn during peak heat hours. Use shade cloths or portable canopies to shield the grass from the harshest sun rays, especially during prolonged heatwaves.
By following these tips, you can keep your lawn looking lush and healthy even during the hottest summer days. Proper watering, mowing, and maintenance practices will ensure that your grass remains resilient and vibrant, providing a beautiful green space for you to enjoy all season long. For more lawn care tips or professional lawn services, partner with Ortega's Landscaping. We’ll keep your lawn in healthy and vibrant in the scorching summer heat in McMinnville, OR. To schedule an appointment, call us at (503) 420-5671.