Tips for Maintaining a Lush Lawn During the Summer HeatTips for Maintaining a Lush Lawn During the Summer Heat 1. Remove Dead Grass: Rake the surface to eliminate any visible dead grass, allowing for new growth. 2. Aerate the Soil: Create holes in the ground using an aerator or pitchfork to enhance soil breathability and nutrient absorption. 3. Spread New Seeds: Choose grass varieties suitable for your region and liberally spread them over the lawn. 4. Fertilize (When Weather Cools): Once the heat subsides, apply fertilizer to promote healthy growth. 5. Water Regularly: Establish a watering schedule, providing sufficient moisture early morning or late evening to avoid evaporation. Consider using a timed sprinkler for consistent hydration.
Amid the rising summer temperatures, lawns across the country are feeling the heat, often turning brown and brittle in the relentless sun. But fear not, help is at hand thanks to insights from Chris Mcllroy at The Grass People, who shares pearls of gardening wisdom for those struggling to maintain a lush green lawn.
The lawn care specialist said: “Keeping your lawn in top shape during the summer is not easy, as higher temperatures and less rainfall take their toll.”
He explained why grass is often wilted and patchy during a heat wave: “It is normal for grass to become wilted, patchy and brown during heat waves as it goes into a dormant state, but all is not lost.”
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His first piece of advice? Well, it requires a little elbow grease.
“The first step I would recommend is to rake the surface and remove any visible dead grass.”
Chris then advises homeowners to get started with aerating the lawn, stating, “Next, it’s important to aerate the soil so it can breathe, and you can do this by using an aerator or a pitchfork to making holes in the ground so that water can flow and nutrients can reach deeper.”
Gardeners should then spread the new seeds liberally over their lawns, choosing the varieties that best suit their needs, the Express reports.
When the weather cools and the scorching days are over, it’s time to fertilize, he says.
In a final reflection on the challenges lawns face, the expert noted: “The summer months often see periods of high temperatures and reduced rainfall, which can have a negative impact on lawns.”
The phenomenon of grass going dormant, resulting in unsightly browning, is a survival response to intense heat and drought, something many Britons want to remedy in order to enjoy green gardens outside during the peak months.
Fortunately, it is common for lawns to dry out during the hot summer months when they are not watered enough. To prevent this, you should make sure your lawn is getting enough water, unless there are hosepipe bans in place.
The Express has released a lawn care calendar (Image: (Image: EXPRESS))
It is best to water your lawn early in the morning before the sun gets too hot or late in the evening after the sun has set. You may also consider investing in a timed oscillating sprinkler to keep your lawn hydrated all day long.
