Ask the experts: How do I take care of my lawn during a heat wave?

As the summer sun beats down and temperatures rise, your lawn may struggle to stay lush and green. Heat stress can quickly take a toll on your grass, but with the right care, you can help it thrive even in the harshest conditions. At [Company Name], we understand the importance of a healthy lawn, and we’ve put together 5 essential tips to help you keep your grass looking its best during extreme heat.

1. Water Early: The Best Time is Between 6 AM and 10 AM

Watering your lawn early in the morning is one of the most effective ways to combat heat stress. When you water before the sun is at its peak, the moisture has time to soak deeply into the soil before evaporation sets in. This not only helps your lawn retain more water but also reduces the risk of fungal diseases that thrive in warm, damp conditions.

Tip: Aim for 6 AM to 10 AM to maximize water absorption and minimize evaporation.

2. Ensure Your Lawn Gets at Least 1 Inch of Water Per Week

Water in early morning to prevent water loss from evaporation. Your lawn needs roughly 1" of water per week.

To stay hydrated, your lawn needs at least 1 inch of water each week, whether from rain or irrigation. During periods of extreme heat, your lawn may require more frequent watering. Instead of one long session, consider splitting your watering into two shorter sessions. This allows the water to penetrate deeply, promoting stronger root systems and reducing surface runoff.

Tip: Deep watering encourages deep roots, which are essential for your lawn’s resilience.

3. Set Your Mower Blades to the Highest Setting

Mow in the early morning or late evening to prevent heat stress, be sure to only take 1/3 of your grass with each mowing to protect your lawn from heat stress!

When temperatures soar, grass can dry out and become stressed. A simple way to protect your lawn is to adjust your mower blades to their highest setting. Taller grass provides valuable shade for the soil, helping to retain moisture and protect the roots from the heat. Plus, avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time, as cutting too much can shock your lawn.

Tip: Longer grass = healthier soil and stronger roots.

4. Minimize Foot Traffic on Heat-Stressed Areas

Avoid walking, playing, or hosting gatherings in areas where your lawn is showing signs of heat stress such as discoloration, bare spots, or slower growth.

In extreme heat, grass is more susceptible to damage. If your lawn is showing signs of heat stress, avoid walking, playing, or hosting gatherings on the most affected areas. Heavy foot traffic can compact the soil and break down the grass even further, making it harder for your lawn to recover.

Tip: Give your lawn space to recover by staying off stressed areas.

5. Mow During Cooler Parts of the Day

Mowing during the hottest part of the day puts unnecessary stress on both you and your lawn. For the healthiest cut, try mowing in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is lower, and the sun isn’t as intense. This reduces the stress on the grass, helping it recover more quickly and reducing the wear and tear on your equipment.

Tip: Mowing in the cooler hours of the day makes the process easier on everyone!

Final Thoughts

Caring for your lawn during extreme heat may require a little extra effort, but it’s worth it for a healthy, thriving yard. By following these simple tips, you’ll help your grass beat the heat and stay beautiful all summer long. Remember, healthy lawns aren’t just about looking good—they’re also about maintaining a healthy environment.

If you feel like your lawn needs a boost or it's not looking "quite right" after following these tips, call, text, or email us. We’re here to help you keep your outdoor space in top shape, no matter the weather!