Tips to Keep Your Lawn Green During Summer Drought

Posted on 05/08/2024

Watering Techniques

Maintaining a green lawn during a summer drought is no small feat. One of the most important aspects is to ensure you're watering your lawn effectively. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Deep watering once or twice a week is better than frequent shallow watering as it encourages roots to grow deeper.

Choose the Right Grass

Opt for drought-resistant grass varieties if you live in an area prone to drought. Varieties like Bermuda grass, buffalo grass, and zoysia grass are resilient and capable of withstanding long dry spells.

Mowing Tips

Adjust your mowing height to be higher during a drought. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and encouraging deeper root growth. Avoid mowing your grass too short and ensure your mower blades are sharp to prevent tearing the grass.

Soil Health

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of a resilient lawn. Aerate your lawn to improve soil structure and allow water to penetrate more efficiently. Adding organic matter to your soil can also help retain moisture.

Mulching and Composting

Applying a layer of mulch can significantly help in retaining soil moisture. Mulching around the base of the grass helps to keep the soil cool and reduces water evaporation. Composting can also enrich the soil, making it more capable of holding water.

Use Smart Irrigation Systems

Consider investing in a smart irrigation system. These systems adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels, ensuring your lawn gets the right amount of water without any waste.

Reduce Traffic

Minimize foot traffic on your lawn during a drought. Compacted soil can impede water penetration and root growth, making it harder for your grass to stay green and healthy.

Fertilizer Use

Use fertilizers wisely. Over-fertilizing can harm your grass, especially during a drought. Opt for slow-release fertilizers and apply them during cooler periods to avoid stressing the grass further.

Install a Rain Barrel

Collecting rainwater can help you water your lawn when there are restrictions on water usage. Rain barrels can be an excellent way to conserve water and ensure your lawn remains hydrated.

Prevent Weeds

Weeds compete with your grass for water and nutrients. Keep your lawn healthy by regularly weeding and using weed-control measures. Focus on natural weed killers to prevent additional stress on the lawn.

Monitor and Adjust

Regularly monitor your lawn's health. Adjust your practices based on the grass's condition and the weather patterns. Flexibility can help you make the necessary changes to keep your lawn green.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Deep watering promotes root growth.

• Drought-resistant grass varieties reduce water needs.

• Maintaining soil health improves water retention.

• Smart irrigation systems optimize water usage.

Cons:

• Initial cost of installing smart irrigation systems and rain barrels.

• Requires time and effort for monitoring and adjusting practices.

Tips and Takeaways

• Water deeply and infrequently to promote root growth.

• Choose drought-resistant grass varieties for better resilience.

• Maintain healthy soil through aeration and organic compost.

• Use smart irrigation systems to optimize water usage.

Conclusion

Keeping your lawn green during a summer drought is challenging, but not impossible. By implementing effective watering techniques, maintaining healthy soil, and using appropriate grass varieties, you can help your lawn withstand the harsh conditions. Invest in smart irrigation and consider reducing traffic on your lawn. Regular monitoring and adjustments will ensure your lawn remains lush and green even during the driest months.