Maintaining a lush and healthy lawn is a source of pride for many homeowners. However, caring for a lawn can be a daunting task, especially during hot weather when the sun is blazing and the temperature is soaring. In this article, we will discuss some helpful tips on how to care for a lawn during hot weather, as well as in the winter season, and even if you have dogs.
Caring for a Lawn During Hot Weather
Hot weather can be tough on your lawn, but with a little extra care, you can keep it green and healthy. Here are some tips to help your lawn survive the heat:
Watering Your Lawn
Watering is crucial to keep your lawn healthy, especially during hot weather. Water your lawn deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and frequently. It’s best to water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and to avoid watering during the hottest parts of the day. You can also consider investing in an automatic sprinkler system to ensure your lawn receives the proper amount of water.
If you are unsure about whether your lawn is watered sufficiently, check the soil profile by digging a spade into the lawn and easing it back and forth. When you take the spade out you will be able to see how far down the water is going.
It is, of course, important that you are aware of any hose pipe ban that may be in place in your area before using a hose or sprinkler.
Mowing Your Lawn
Mowing your lawn too short can damage the grass and make it more susceptible to stress and disease. During hot weather, it’s best to keep your lawn a little longer to shade the soil and keep it cooler. Also, keep your mower blades sharp and avoid mowing during the hottest parts of the day.
Fertilising Your Lawn
Fertilising your lawn can help it thrive during hot weather. However, be careful not to over-fertilise, as this can burn the grass and damage your lawn. Use a slow or controlled-release fertiliser and follow the instructions carefully.
It’s best to fertilise your lawn in the spring and autumn when the grass is actively growing. It is however useful to fertilise a lawn in late summer to make the best use of the autumn rain. This allows the grass to recover from the ravages of summer much quicker.
Caring for a Lawn in Winter
In recent years our winters have been milder meaning that our lawns have continued to grow. It is a good idea to raise the cut height and continue to cut, albeit less frequently. Make sure you disperse any worm casting before cutting in winter though!
Here are some tips to keep your lawn healthy during the colder months:
Clearing Your Lawn
Clear any debris, such as leaves and branches, from your lawn during winter to prevent snow mould and other fungal diseases. Additionally, avoid walking on your lawn when it’s covered in snow, as this can damage the grass.
It is Autumn we all think of when we think of clearing lawns of leaves and debris but it should really be a year-round job. In the same way we sweep our patio, so our lawns should be cleared of unwanted surface material.
Mowing Your Lawn
Winter is a great time to get your mower serviced and the blades sharpened ready for the spring ahead. Your mower service centre may even offer a better deal over the quieter winter months.
Fertilising Your Lawn
Fertilising your lawn with a well-balanced controlled-release fertiliser over the course of the year is a great way of getting the best out of your lawn. It’s the equivalent of us having our dietary requirements assessed and provided for.
Caring for a Lawn with Dogs
If you have dogs, caring for your lawn can be a challenge. Here are some tips to keep your lawn healthy and your dogs happy:
Picking up Pet Waste
Dog urine and faeces can damage your lawn, so it’s important to pick up pet waste regularly. You can also dilute dog urine by watering the affected areas immediately after your dog urinates.
Preventing Lawn Damage
Dogs love to run and play on grass, but this can damage your lawn, especially during the wetter months. Consider creating a designated play area for your dogs or training them to use a specific area of your lawn for their playtime. Change the entry and exit points of the lawn for them frequently.
Repairing Lawn Damage
If your dogs have already caused damage to your lawn, you can repair it by reseeding (depending on the time of year) or using turf. Keep your dogs off the affected areas until the grass has fully established.
Conclusion
In conclusion, caring for a lawn requires some effort, but the results are worth it. Whether you’re dealing with hot weather, dogs or worm casts, there are specific steps you can take to keep your lawn healthy and beautiful. By following the tips discussed in this article, you can maintain a lush and vibrant lawn that you can be proud of. Remember to water deeply and infrequently, mow your lawn at the right height, fertilise at the appropriate times, and take steps to prevent damage from pets. With a little extra care, your lawn can thrive and provide a beautiful outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.