As summer approaches, it's essential to prepare your yard to maintain a lush, vibrant lawn. Here are three crucial steps to ensure your lawn thrives in the heat.
Step 1: Mastering the Art of Mowing
Proper mowing techniques can significantly enhance your lawn’s health. As temperatures rise, adjust your mowing height to 10 cm and let the grass grow to 15 cm. Following the one-third rule—never cutting more than one-third of the blade—helps maintain taller grass, which provides shade, reduces evaporation, and keeps roots cooler.
To further protect your lawn, minimise foot traffic. Encourage play in the backyard, limit activities on the front lawn, and consider designated play areas. This reduces stress on the grass and helps maintain its health throughout the summer.
Step 2: Fertilising for a Healthy Lawn
Fertilising your lawn provides essential nutrients to help it cope with heat and drought. Choose a fertiliser with potassium and a nitrogen rate of 1/3 to 1/2 pound per 93 square metres. Opt for products that promote root growth over top growth to ensure balanced nutrients that support your lawn’s health.
When applying fertiliser, make sure to follow the recommended amounts to avoid wasting product or money while providing adequate nourishment. This helps your lawn get the necessary support to thrive during the summer months.
Step 3: Watering Techniques for Summer
Proper watering techniques are crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn during hot months. Water deeply but less frequently, aiming for about 1.3 cm of water 2-3 times a week. This promotes deeper root systems, making your lawn more resilient to drought conditions.
To ensure you're watering adequately, use containers like tuna cans to measure your sprinkler’s output. Additionally, choose the right sprinkler for efficient watering—impact sprinklers for wide coverage and oscillating sprinklers for adjustable spray patterns. Regularly monitor soil moisture levels and adjust watering based on weather conditions.
Regular Lawn Maintenance
Beyond mowing, fertilising, and watering, regular maintenance is essential. Control weeds to prevent competition for nutrients, check for pests regularly, and maintain lawn equipment for efficiency. These additional steps help keep your lawn in top shape throughout the summer and into autumn.
With a little effort and attention to detail, your yard can become a beautiful outdoor space for relaxation and enjoyment.
Discover a range of products to help you perfect your lawn this coming summer at Hinterland. Rediscover what matters.