Summer Lawn Care: How to Keep Your Grass Green in the Heat

Summer's in full swing, and while the sun is a welcome guest for beach days and BBQs, it's a bit of an adversary to your lush, green lawn.

Keeping your grass vibrant and healthy through the heat can be challenging, but don't sweat it. We've got some cool tips to help you out!

Summer Lawn Care Tips

1. Water Wisely

We talk about this so much, that’s because it’s so important! When it comes to summer lawn care, proper watering is essential.

• Go Deep, Not Often. It's better to water your lawn deeply and infrequently rather than little and often. This method encourages roots to grow deeper, making them more drought-resistant. Aim for about one inch of water per week, whether from rain or your hose, which can typically be achieved in one or two watering sessions.
• Time It Right. The best time to water your lawn is early in the morning. This timing helps reduce evaporation since the cooler morning air keeps more water on the ground longer, allowing it to soak deeply into the soil. Evening watering is less ideal as it can leave the grass damp overnight, increasing the risk of fungal diseases.
• Efficient Watering Practices. With parts of Alberta experiencing water shortages, maximizing water usage is crucial. If you have an irrigation system, consider investing in a smart controller that adjusts watering based on weather conditions. Simple changes like fixing leaks and ensuring your sprinkler heads are accurately aimed can also significantly increase efficiency. Drip irrigation systems or soaker hoses are excellent for targeted watering directly to the roots, minimizing waste.
• Harvest the Rain. Setting up rain barrels is a great way to make the most of natural rainfall. Collecting rainwater not only reduces your water bill but also provides you with a ready supply during dry spells. Plus, rainwater is free from the minerals and chemicals often found in tap water, making it better for your lawn’s health.

2. Mowing Mastery

Here’s how to cut for the best results:

• Let It Grow. During summer, let your grass grow longer. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing water evaporation and keeping roots cooler. Keep your lawn about half an inch to an inch taller than you normally would. This extra length protects the roots and helps retain soil moisture, which is especially important during heat waves.
• Time Your Trims. Timing is everything when it comes to mowing in the summer. Mow in the late evening when the temperatures are cooler. Cutting the grass during the cooler parts of the day minimizes stress and prevents the sun from scorching freshly cut grass. This practice helps the grass recover faster and stay healthier.
• Follow the One-Third Rule. To maintain a healthy lawn, never cut more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing session. This "one-third" rule helps avoid shocking the grass and allows for steadier growth.

3. Choosing the Right Fertilizer

Selecting the appropriate fertilizer is a game-changer for maintaining a vibrant lawn throughout the harsh summer months.

• Go for Slow-Release. Slow-release fertilizers are ideal for summer care because they feed your lawn gradually. These fertilizers release nutrients slowly, providing a steady supply that supports consistent grass growth without overwhelming your lawn with a sudden nutrient surge.
• Go Easy During Heat. Instead of a heavy application, opt for a lighter touch to maintain nutrient levels without risking damage.
• Integrate SoilBooster™. Our SoilBooster™ treatment not only improves the overall health and appearance of your turf but also enhances the soil’s ability to retain moisture. It enriches the soil with 70 essential nutrients and organic matter, promoting strong root development and improving resistance to drought and heat.

4. Tackling Weeds and Pests

Summer brings not just heat but uninvited guests like weeds and pests that can turn your lush lawn into a patchy mess. Here’s how you can keep your turf in top shape:

• Spot and Stop Weeds Early. Keep an eagle eye out for those pesky weeds. Catching them early means easier removal and less competition for your grass. A quick walk through your lawn every few days to pull out invaders can save you a lot of hassle later.
• Friendly Fighters. Not all insects are foes, in fact, some are your lawn's best defenders. Embrace natural pest control by encouraging beneficial bugs that snack on harmful pests. Also, consider organic treatments that are kinder to your lawn and the planet.
• Pest Specifics. Summer pests like grubs and chinch bugs need a direct hit with the right treatment. Got brown patches or spots? They could be fungal infestations, calling for specific fungicides. Always identify your adversary correctly to choose the best solution.

5. Cooling Down: Handling Heat Stress

When your lawn starts to look a bit dull, or its blades don't bounce back after being stepped on, it's likely suffering from heat stress. In these scorching times, there are effective ways to help your grass recover and remain resilient.

• One immediate step is to introduce temporary shading. Using shade cloths or even portable garden structures can protect the most vulnerable areas of your lawn during peak sun hours, preventing further damage.
• Additionally, consider enhancing the soil's moisture retention by adding a layer of organic mulch around your grass. This not only cools the soil but also slowly decomposes to enrich it with nutrients.

6. Calling in the Cavalry

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your lawn might still struggle through the summer heat. When persistent problems like uncontrolled pests, stubborn weeds, or severe heat stress refuse to budge, it’s time to call in the professionals.

Lawn care experts can provide specialized treatments that go beyond typical DIY methods. Whether it's deploying advanced pest control techniques, correcting nutrient imbalances with precision, or reviving a stressed lawn, professional help can be a game-changer.

Take Action for a Greener Lawn

Ready to make sure your lawn continues to thrive this summer, no matter how hot it gets? Trust Green Drop’s expert lawn care services to keep your grass lush and healthy all year long.

Book a free estimate today, and make sure your lawn gets the TLC it deserves. We are proudly serving major cities across Western Canada, including Winnipeg, Regina, Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, and Saskatoon.