Lawn care experts David Hedges Gower and STIGA explain how to help your grass beat the heat this summer
Summer brings both the joys of outdoor living and the challenges of lawn maintenance. From parched, sun-baked patches to surprisingly lush growth after heavy showers, your precious green space can become a battleground around the weather and debates over when to mow or leave well alone.
Grass is often touted as one of the most resilient plants around, and that’s no exaggeration. But resilience doesn’t mean invincibility. In periods of hot and dry weather, grass naturally goes dormant to conserve energy and moisture. This isn’t a sign of failure, it’s a sign that your lawn is doing exactly what nature intended.
Still, there are smart, proactive steps you can take to help your lawn not just survive, but bounce back more easily when conditions improve.
How to adjust the mowing routine
Raise the cutting height – as summer progressed, gradually increase the height of your mow. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing water loss and protecting roots from scorching sun.
Leave the clippings – occasionally mowing without collecting clippings (known as “mulching”) helps return moisture and nutrients to the soil. Contrary to popular belief, this won’t create problematic thatch.
Sharpen your blade – a clean cut is vital, especially during periods of slow growth. A dull mower blade can shred grass, increasing vulnerability to stress and disease.
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Feed and water wisely
Feeding – apply a phased released, organic, low nitrogen, no scorch feed, before any extreme heat. Look for formulations like True Grass that are gentle and won’t scorch your lawn.
Watering – it is tempting to reach for the hose when your lawn looks dry, but resist the urge to overwater. Grass will usually recover when natural rainfall returns. If you do need to water, do it during the cooler evening or early morning hours for better absorption. Nighttime is also when grass does most of its growing. Don’t forget to look out for any hosepipe bans in your area.
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Take time to enjoy
Perhaps the most overlooked lawn tip: enjoy it. Your lawn is an extension of your home and a space for relaxation and play. Summer isn’t just about maintenance, it’s about making memories outdoors. A few brown spots won’t ruin your lawn, but over-fussing might ruin your enjoyment of it.
Final thoughts
Perfect stripes and deep green hues might be appealing, but they’re not the measure of a healthy summer lawn. Focus on sensible care, sustainable habits, and allowing your grass the space to rest when needed. With a little planning and a relaxed mindset, your lawn will come through summer stronger and so will you.
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