Keeping your grass green during the warm summer months can be challenging for any homeowner. Follow these six tips to help maintain a healthy summer lawn.
1. Don’t Cut Too Short
A common mistake that people make in the summer is cutting the grass too short in an effort to mow less often. Short blades of grass expose the soil to the scorching sun, causing it to dry out faster. Excessive mowing also causes the tips of the grass to turn brown instead of the lush green you’re aiming for. Keep your grass at a height of 3 to 4 inches to promote root growth, prevent brown patches, and to maintain a healthy summer lawn.
2. Water in the Morning to Maintain a Healthy Summer Lawn
Watering your grass in the morning is ideal to maximize absorption. It’s cooler in the morning which allows the water to sink deeper into the soil instead of evaporating in the heat of the day. Water before 10 a.m., before the summer sun is at its hottest.
3. Don’t Water Too Much
Some people think that they need to water their grass every day to maintain a healthy summer lawn. It’s better to give your lawn a full soak less frequently. Overly saturated soil is susceptible to fungus or disease. The average lawn only needs one inch of water per week, including rainfall. You might not need to water at all if rain is in the forecast.
4. Use Sharp Blades to Maintain a Healthy Summer Lawn
The grass recovers faster when it’s cut with a sharp blade. A dull mower blade tears at the plant’s tissue and can turn your grass brown. Sharp blades cut the grass instead of tearing it, which promotes the healthy green look you’re working towards. Sharpen the blade halfway through the summer or ask your local hardware store to sharpen it for you.
5. Leave the Clippings
Don’t bag your grass clippings to help keep your lawn healthy all summer long. A mulching lawn mower leaves the clippings on the lawn to act as mulch and fertilizer and promote growth.
6. Get Rid of Weeds
Weeds are unsightly and compete with your grass for nutrients and water. Get rid of weeds to promote a healthy lawn. Weeds like crabgrass grow deep roots and spread rapidly.
It’s not as difficult to maintain a healthy summer lawn as it initially seems. Practice these six tips and your grass will stay green and lush all summer long.
Assurance Home Services provides home inspections for buyers and sellers. Schedule an appointment for our services in Greater Charlotte.