For many homeowners, summer is the busiest season for maintaining healthy lawns. Not only does grass grow faster during the summer months, but it is also more susceptible to issues with drought, pests and heat stress. To keep lawns in top shape throughout the summer, a proper maintenance routine should be followed. Check out the following tips for some simple yet effective ways to maintain a healthy summer lawn. Be sure to also refer to Carolina Fresh Farm’s care guides for individual grass types here. 

Irrigate Properly

As the summer heat sets in, grass can easily wilt and even become dormant due to the lack of moisture in the soil. To avoid stress on your lawn, it’s essential to water it deeply a few times a week. Most summer lawns require 1 to 1.5 inches of water each week from either rainfall or irrigation. To ensure your lawn fully soaks in moisture, only water in the morning before the sun dries up the soil. Be mindful of how often you water, as watering too frequently can cause roots to rot and develop fungal diseases. If rain is in the forecast, adjust your watering schedule to prevent overwatering during wet weather. Learn more about proper watering practices in Watering 101.

Mow the Grass High

Mowing your grass at a proper height not only keeps your lawn looking attractive but also promotes healthy grass growth. During the summer when temperatures are hot and dry, it’s beneficial to mow grass high. Taller grass will develop deep roots, consequently allowing it to reach water in the soil even during droughts. Additionally, higher grass blades provide more shade to reduce the growth of unwanted weeds.

Apply Fertilizer

Although fertilizer is most often applied during the spring and fall, it is beneficial to fertilize warm-season turfgrass during the summer as well. Summer feedings help replenish the soil with essential nutrients to promote thick, healthy grass so that it can endure the hottest time of the year. For more expert insights on summer fertilizer applications for individual grasses like zoysia, centipede grass, fescue, bermuda and St. Augustine, click here. 

Treat for Pests

Because insects are most active during warm temperatures, lawns can easily become a target for pests in the summer. Yards may develop brown patches when infested by grub worms or sod webworms, for example. Additional symptoms of pest infestations include wilting, bare patches, discoloration and eventually death. The best way to avoid stress in your lawn is to treat pests early on even before symptoms are noticed. Always follow the insecticide’s directions carefully to ensure proper application. Discover ways to prevent and control common summer lawn and garden insects here. 

Manage Heat Stress

Managing heat stress on lawns during the summer is crucial to maintain their health and lush green appearance. In addition to summer of the previous points on proper watering, mowing, and fertilizing techniques, consider reducing foot traffic on the lawn, as it can further stress the grass during hot weather. Lastly, apply a thin layer of organic mulch, such as compost, to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. 

Keeping your summer lawn in shape doesn’t have to be a challenge as long as proper maintenance is given. By following these simple yet effective tips, you can maintain a lush, healthy lawn throughout the summer season. For more information on lawn care, take a look at our Carolina Fresh Farms care guides for grasses like zoysia, centipede grass, fescue, bermuda grass and St. Augustine.