SmartHomeOwners

Depending on the type of climate, keeping your lawn healthy and green during summer months can create a challenge.  There are also different varieties of grass, and many lawns have a blend of several types.  Here are some quick tips to help you maintain a beautiful lawn, even during those hot summer days.

Watering

In extremely arid/dry climates such as in desert areas, you'll need to water your lawn frequently to keep it looking alive and green.  Give it a good drenching early in the morning at least once or twice per week to keep the ground and roots somewhat moist.  If you live in a humid climate, you won't need to water as often.  Notice how long between rain showers.  If it doesn't rain for a week or more, then water your lawn generously using a hose or sprinkler system.

Type of Grass

The type of grass growing in your lawn also determines the health of your lawn during summer.  Many common grasses have short root systems, which means the grass needs constant watering to remain its green lushness during summer.  Try introducing new grass to your lawn with deep root systems, such as fescue grass.  Fescue grasses are resistant to drought and tolerant to shade.  You can plant fescue grass by over seeding your lawn with fescue seeds in early spring or late fall.  There's no need to pull up the existing grass.  Keep your newly grown grass well watered for the first season.  As the grass gets rooted, the need for watering will be reduced.

You can also introduce clover to your lawn.  Clover is beautiful, soft and easy to maintain due to its long root system.  It can withstand mowing and still keep its lush, green color.  It also enriches the soil with nitrogen and is relatively insect-free!  If you're a dog owner, clover is resistant to spotting from dog urine.

Mowing

When mowing your lawn, make sure your mower blade is sharp and on a high setting.  Mowing higher helps keep your grass healthier by deterring weed growth and allowing the grass to take deeper root into the soil.  A sharp blade provides a clean, even cut without "tearing" your grass. 

Other ways to maintain a gorgeous lawn during summer include using organic fertilizer, limiting foot and pet traffic, monitoring your soil's pH (acidity) with a pH tester, choosing grass adapted to your climate and soil, and controlling the build-up of thatch in your grass.  As you can see, it doesn't take much effort to beat the summer heat when it comes to lawn care!