1. Mow at the right height.
In summer, adjust your mower height to leave grass taller. Taller grass shades soil, which reduces water evaporation, leads to deeper roots and prevents weed seeds from germinating.Ideal mowing height varies with grass type. Time mowings so you're never removing more than one-third of the leaf surface at a time.
2. Water properly.
For the healthiest grass, water your lawn deeply and infrequently. Check with your local water authority or Cooperative Extension System office for recommended irrigation schedules. Discover tips on how much water a lawn needs. Learn the basics of lawn watering.
3. Treat for Grubs.
Japanese Beetles, June Bugs (Beetles) and European Chafers lay eggs in grass in early to midsummer. Eggs hatch intoGrubs(url link:https://www.bayeradvanced.com/articles/dealing-with-lawn-grubs ) in mid-to late summer. Timing varies by Beetle and region. Check with your local Cooperative Extension System office to determine the best time to put down Grub control.
4. Clean up after your pooch.
The family dog can cause dead spots on a lawn. If you see dying grass due to your dog's urination, flush the area with water to dilute the urine in soil. The best solution is to create a mulched or pebbled area and train your dog to use that area for bathroom breaks. Also, keep waste picked up and dispose of it properly.
5. Avoid parking on the grass.
Driving or parking on the lawn is never a good idea. It leads to soil compaction, which can cause a host of other problems, including dead grass. During drought or times of excessive heat, it's even wise to limit foot traffic on grass to avoid damaging turf crowns.
6. Sharpen your mower blade.
A dull mower blade tears grass, creating ragged, brown edges that provide an opening for disease organisms. Sharpen your mower blade regularly. The rule of thumb is that a sharp blade lasts for 10 hours of mowing. Consider purchasing a second blade so you'll always have a sharp blade at the ready.
7. Let clippings lie.
If you're mowing grass at the right height, you can let clippings lie on the lawn. This practice is called grasscycling and saves you time, money and fertilizer.
8. Fertilize warm-season grasses.
Warm-season turf grows strongly during summer and needs nutrients. Check with local Cooperative Extension System office to learn fertilizer schedules for your region. Do not fertilize cool-season lawns during summer. Wait until fall or early spring.
9. Pick up litter.
Summer activities can result in toys, water games, lawn chairs or tools being left on turf. Pick-up everything to avoid damaging the grass or creating dangerous obstacles while mowing.
10. Tackle weeds.
Apply weed control, such as 5 In 1 Weed & Feed, 3-In-1 Weed & Feed for Southern Lawns or Season Long Weed Control for Lawns to help control weeds. Always read and follow label instructions. Do not apply a pre-emergent herbicide in fall if you plan to seed or overseed.
