Summer Lawn Care Tips from Lawn Care Newmarket:

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your lawn, but it also poses unique challenges for maintaining its health and appearance. Here are some expert tips and best practices to keep your lawn looking lush and green all season long:

1. Water Wisely

• Early Morning Watering: Water your lawn early in the morning (between 6 AM and 10 AM) to reduce evaporation and allow the grass to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.
• Deep and Infrequent: Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.

2. Mow High and Often

• Adjust Mower Height: Set your mower blades higher (3 to 4 inches) to encourage deep roots and shade the soil, which helps retain moisture.
• Frequent Mowing: Mow your lawn regularly, but never remove more than one-third of the grass height at a time to prevent stress on the grass.

3. Fertilize Appropriately

• Summer-Specific Fertilizer: Use a slow-release, nitrogen-rich fertilizer formulated for summer use. Avoid fertilizing during peak heat waves.
• Balanced Nutrients: Ensure your lawn gets balanced nutrients, including potassium and phosphorus, to help it withstand summer stress.

4. Control Weeds and Pests

• Weed Management: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide early in the summer to prevent weeds. Spot-treat existing weeds with a post-emergent herbicide.
• Pest Monitoring: Keep an eye out for common lawn pests like grubs and chinch bugs. Use appropriate insecticides if necessary.

5. Aerate and Overseed

• Aeration: Aerate your lawn in late summer or early fall to relieve soil compaction and improve water and nutrient absorption.
• Overseeding: Overseed thin or bare spots to promote a thick, healthy lawn that can better withstand heat and drought.

6. Mulch and Compost

• Mulch Grass Clippings: Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. They act as a natural mulch, returning nutrients to the soil.
• Compost Use: Apply a thin layer of compost to improve soil quality and retain moisture.

7. Prevent Heat Stress

• Shade Protection: If possible, provide temporary shade to vulnerable areas of your lawn during extreme heat.
• Avoid Foot Traffic: Minimize foot traffic on your lawn during the hottest parts of the day to prevent soil compaction and stress on the grass.

8. Monitor Soil Health

• Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies. Amend the soil accordingly to create optimal growing conditions.
• Organic Matter: Add organic matter, such as compost or manure, to improve soil structure and water retention.

9. Plan for Drought Conditions

• Drought-Resistant Grass: Consider planting drought-resistant grass varieties that can better withstand dry conditions.
• Water Conservation: Install a rain barrel or other water-saving devices to collect and use rainwater for irrigation.

10. Professional Care

• Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections with a professional lawn care service to catch and address issues early.
• Customized Programs: Consider enrolling in a customized lawn care program that includes fertilization, weed control, pest management, and aeration tailored to your lawn’s specific needs.

By following these summer lawn care tips, you can ensure your lawn remains healthy, vibrant, and enjoyable throughout the season. For personalized advice and professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us ! Happy summer!