How to Minimize Lawn Stress During Summer

Achieving a resilient lawn that withstands pests, weeds, heat, and more is possible with these straightforward techniques.

Easing Your Lawn’s Burden

Think you’re stressed? Consider your lawn. It endures relentless sunlight, constant foot traffic, thirstiness, and invasive weeds. Indeed, the yard has its own set of challenges. However, you can implement simple measures to help your lawn manage the summer stressors.

Key Stressors for Your Lawn

Heatwaves, drought conditions, and heavy foot traffic are significant stress factors for most grasses. Additionally, issues like weeds and insects can exacerbate when your lawn is already under duress.

Avoid Walking on Dry Grass

When grass is well-hydrated, it bounces back after being stepped on. In contrast, walking on dry grass causes it to remain flattened and can harm the blades. Moreover, excessive foot traffic on wet soil leads to compaction, hindering air from reaching the roots.

Maintain a Sharp and High Mower Blade

Using dull mower blades tears the grass rather than cutting it cleanly. This results in greater moisture loss and brown-tipped blades that dull your lawn’s appearance. Most grasses thrive when mowed at higher settings; taller grass develops deeper roots capable of accessing moisture further underground.

Delay Feeding Stressed Lawns

Lawns under stress cease growing actively; thus fertilizing them during this period is ineffective. Instead, apply fertilizer before hot and dry weather sets in. Once cooler temperatures return along with rainfall, fertilize again to expedite recovery. Jonathan Green Summer Survival fertilizer is an ideal choice for lawns prone to summer stress as it retains nutrients until needed by the grass..

Optimal Watering Time: Morning Hours

Watering your lawn between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. minimizes evaporation losses, making this period the most efficient time for irrigation. To reduce evaporation and ensure your lawn dries before nightfall, avoid afternoon watering as it leads to significant water loss. Watering at night can promote disease. Aim to water your lawn with half an inch twice a week or one inch weekly for optimal hydration.

Consider Overseeding with Heat-Tolerant Grass

If your lawn struggles with heat stress, consider overseeding in the fall using a heat-tolerant grass like Jonathan Green Heat & Drought mix, which includes a new hybrid Bluegrass that can withstand one hundred degree temperatures. This can help maintain green coverage even during extreme heat and drought by filling bare spots.

Planting a Resilient Lawn from the Start

For a more resilient lawn from the start, consider planting Jonathan Green's Black Beauty mixes. These grasses root up to 4 feet deep, allowing them to access water far below the surface, which reduces the need for frequent watering. Their waxy leaves help retain moisture, and they are naturally disease and insect resistant. Black Beauty mixes ensure your lawn stays green and healthy, even during drought conditions. Additionally, their deep roots and durable nature make them an excellent choice for a low-maintenance, lush lawn.

By following these tips, you can help your lawn withstand the summer heat and stay green and healthy all season long.