Photo taken July 17, 2019. NTS customer, Boxford, MA.
Mid-summer can bring with it a number of ailments for your lawn, chief among them drought stress.
Drought stress occurs during periods of high heat and little rain, leaving your turf looking dry and burnt. However, with proper watering and management, you can protect your lawn and ensure it will look lush and green through the remainder of the summer and fall seasons.
When the temperature rises, consider the following tips to keep your turf in top shape:
Mow weekly and keep your mower blades sharp and high (2.5”-3”). Tall blades promote deeper roots and provide shade for the soil, resulting in less water evaporation.
Never mow your lawn when the soil is wet. This could cause soil compaction and permanently damage the health of your lawn.
Limit activities on your turf. Drought-stressed turf is more easily damaged.
Watering DOs and DON’Ts:
A typical lawn requires approximately one inch of water per week during mild weather. During hot summer months, this increases to two inches per week. (Lawn areas in shade require 50% less water than sunny areas.)
DO water early in the morning, 3-4 days per week.
DO water for 30-40 minutes per section so that the water can soak into the soil.
During a watering ban, your lawn can survive on less water. To comply with your town’s regulations during a ban, reduce the number of times you are watering and/or the length of each session. Your lawn won’t look it’s best, but it will survive.
DO check your sprinkler heads every few weeks to ensure they are operating properly. Adjust the spray pattern to prevent water waste (i.e.- watering pavement).
DO use a cycle and soak method of watering if you have an irrigation system (water 5-7 minutes per cycle, allow the water to soak in, then repeat the cycle an hour later).
DON’T water at night- the grass will likely remain wet, fostering a disease-friendly environment.
If your lawn suffers from drought stress, it can take up to two weeks for it to recover, even with proper attention and care. Follow the above recommendations to give your lawn the best chance of recovery.
Disclaimer
Each lawn is different and has different needs. If you are an NTS customer and have specific questions or concerns about your lawn and want tailored advice, reach out to us anytime!