Lawn Care in the Summer: How to Keep Your Grass Green During Hot Weather

Posted on April 25th, 2023

Summer is the season for outdoor fun, but it can also be a challenging time for your lawn. The hot weather and dry conditions can take a toll on your grass, leaving it brown and wilted. However, with the right lawn care practices, you can keep your grass green and healthy all summer long. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips for keeping your grass green during hot weather.

Watering

Watering is one of the most important aspects of lawn care during the summer months. Your grass needs plenty of water to survive the heat and drought conditions. However, it's important to water your lawn correctly to avoid overwatering or underwatering.

One of the best ways to ensure your grass gets the right amount of water is to use a sprinkler system. This will help you evenly distribute water across your lawn, ensuring that every area gets the hydration it needs. You should also water your lawn early in the morning, before the sun is at its strongest. This will allow the water to penetrate the soil and reach the roots of your grass before it evaporates.

Fertilization

Fertilization is another key aspect of lawn care during the summer months. Your grass needs nutrients to thrive, and the hot weather can deplete the soil of essential nutrients. By fertilizing your lawn regularly, you can help ensure that your grass has the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and green.

It's important to choose the right type of fertilizer for your grass and to follow the application instructions carefully. Over-fertilization can actually damage your lawn and cause it to become more susceptible to pests and diseases.

In addition to choosing the right fertilizer, it's also important to fertilize your lawn at the right time. Ideally, you should fertilize your lawn in the spring and fall, and avoid fertilizing during the hottest months of summer. This will help to promote healthy growth and development of your grass, and will reduce the risk of damage from heat and drought.

Finally, it's important to consider the environmental impact of fertilization. Many fertilizers contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the soil and water supply. Consider using organic fertilizers or other eco-friendly options to promote a healthy lawn without harming the environment.

Mowing

Mowing is another important aspect of lawn care during the summer months. However, it's important to mow your lawn correctly to avoid damaging your grass.

You should never cut more than one-third of the height of your grass when mowing. This will help prevent stress and damage to your grass, which can leave it vulnerable to pests and diseases. You should also make sure your mower blades are sharp, as dull blades can tear the grass and cause it to turn brown.

In addition to mowing, it's also important to leave grass clippings on your lawn after mowing. Grass clippings contain valuable nutrients that can help fertilize your lawn and promote healthy growth.

Weed Control

Weeds can be particularly problematic during the summer months. They can compete with your grass for nutrients and water, causing your grass to become weaker and more susceptible to damage.

One of the best ways to control weeds is to use a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring. This will prevent weed seeds from germinating, reducing the number of weeds that grow in your lawn. You can also use a post-emergent herbicide to target weeds that have already sprouted.

However, it's important to use herbicides carefully and responsibly to avoid harming your grass or the environment. Consider using natural weed control methods, such as hand weeding or organic herbicides, to promote a healthy lawn without relying on harmful chemicals

Another effective natural weed control method is to use a vinegar and water solution to kill weeds. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle and spray directly on the weeds. 

At Elkhorn Lawn Care of Lincoln, we offer a wide range of lawn care services, including fertilization, mowing, and weed control. Our team of experienced professionals has the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve a healthy, vibrant lawn all summer long.

Aeration

Aeration is another important aspect of lawn care during the summer months. It helps to alleviate soil compaction, allowing air and nutrients to penetrate the soil and reach the roots of your grass.

You should aerate your lawn at least once a year, and ideally twice a year. This will help to promote healthy growth and development of your grass, and will reduce the risk of damage from heat and drought.

Pest Control

Pests can be particularly problematic during the summer months, as they thrive in warm, humid conditions. Some common pests that can damage your lawn during the summer include grubs, chinch bugs, and armyworms.

One of the best ways to control pests is to keep your lawn healthy and strong. A healthy lawn is less susceptible to damage from pests and diseases. However, if you do notice signs of pest damage, such as brown patches or thinning grass, you should contact a lawn care professional to assess the problem and recommend a course of action.

Professional Lawn Care Services

While there are many lawn care practices you can do yourself, it's also important to consider hiring a professional lawn care service during the summer months. Lawn care professionals have the expertise and equipment to keep your lawn healthy and green, even in the hottest weather.

At Elkhorn Lawn Care of Lincoln, we offer a wide range of lawn care services, including lawn care, landscaping, snow removal, and irrigation services. Our team of experienced professionals has the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve a healthy, vibrant lawn all summer long.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping your grass green during hot weather requires a combination of proper watering, fertilization, mowing, weed control, aeration, and pest control. By following these tips and working with a professional lawn care service, you can keep your lawn healthy and vibrant all summer long.

At Elkhorn Lawn Care of Lincoln, we offer a wide range of lawn care services to help you achieve the lawn of your dreams. Contact us today at (402) 922-8122 to learn more about how we can help you keep your grass green and healthy all summer long.