As summer approaches, maintaining a lush, green lawn can become a challenging task for landscapers. The intense heat can stress turf, leading to brown patches and weakened grass. However, with the right strategies, you can keep your turf cool and healthy throughout the hottest months. Read further to learn about key practices such as adjusting mowing height, adding mulch, watering deeply and early, and more.
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your turf cool is by adjusting the mowing height. During summer, it's crucial to raise the mowing height to provide shade for the soil and reduce heat stress on the grass. For cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue, aim for a height of 3 to 4 inches. Warm-season grasses such as bermudagrass and zoysiagrass should be kept at about 2 to 3 inches. Taller grass blades help shade the soil, retain moisture, and protect the roots from the scorching sun.
Mulching is another excellent technique to keep your turf cool. Applying a layer of organic mulch around trees, shrubs, and garden beds helps regulate soil temperature, conserve moisture, and suppress weeds. Mulch acts as an insulating layer, reducing the soil's exposure to direct sunlight and preventing it from drying out. Use materials like grass clippings or compost and apply a 2 to 4-inch layer around plants, keeping it slightly away from the base to avoid rot.
Proper watering is essential for maintaining cool and healthy turf during summer. Watering deeply and early in the morning ensures that the water penetrates the soil and reaches the roots before the heat of the day causes evaporation. Aim to water your lawn about 6 to 8 inches deep, which encourages deep root growth and improves drought resistance. Avoid frequent shallow watering, as it can lead to weak roots and increased susceptibility to heat stress.
Potassium is a vital nutrient that helps turfgrass withstand heat and drought. Applying a slow-release potassium fertilizer during the early summer months can strengthen the grass and improve its resilience. If potassium is low, then it is possible for turf to fall victim to future issues. To better assess potassium levels, it is suggested to perform a soil test to ensure turf has the nutrients it needs to thrive.
In addition to the above practices, providing shade can significantly reduce the temperature of your turf. Planting shade trees strategically around your lawn can create a cooler microclimate and protect the grass from direct sunlight. Trees like oak or maple can provide ample shade, reducing the need for artificial cooling and enhancing the overall aesthetics of your landscape. Additionally, using structures like pergolas or shade cloths can offer temporary relief during peak heat periods.
Keeping turf cool during the summer requires a combination of proper mowing, mulching, watering, fertilizing, and shading techniques. By implementing these strategies, landscapers can ensure that the lawns they manage remain green, healthy, and resilient throughout the hottest months. Remember, a well-maintained lawn not only enhances the beauty of the landscape but also provides a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor space for everyone.
