The summer sun can cause significant stress to a lawn. Whether you live on the east coast, west coast or somewhere in between, this time of year is characterized by high temperatures – and these high temperatures can damage an otherwise healthy lawn.
So, how can you protect your lawn from the summer sun?
Don’t Mow Too Short
One of the most common landscaping mistakes homeowners make during the summer is mowing their grass too short. The shorter you cut your grass, the greater the stress.
Depending on the specific variety of grass, it’s usually best to maintain a height of 2 to 4 inches. This will keep your lawn looking clean and well-manicured while minimizing stress in the process.
Use a Sharp Mower Blade
In addition to mowing at the correct height, you should also mow with a sharp blade. Unfortunately, many homeowners rarely (if ever) change their mower blade. It’s not until the blade actually breaks that they replace it.
While it may seem harmless enough, mowing your lawn with a dull blade can damage the grass. Rather than making a clean cut, the dull blade tears through the grass, causing additional stress.
To prevent this from happening, sharpen your mower blade on a regular basis, and when necessary, replace it with a new blade.
Water at the Right Time
Of course, lack of moisture is a common problem that can further stress your lawn during the summer. Assuming there’s not a water ban in your area, you can protect your lawn from dehydration by simply watering it.
However, it’s recommended that you water your lawn between the hours of 6 AM and 10 AM for maximum benefit. Less water is evaporated during this time of day, allowing your grass to absorb more of the water.
Don’t Walk on Your Lawn
I know this is easier said than done, but try to avoid walking on your lawn during the summer, as this can also stress it.
If you need to walk across it, designate a path to minimize the impact this has. You can even set up stepping stones or pavers to use as a walking path.
Following these tips will reduce summer stress on your lawn while promoting greener, healthier grass in the process.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
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