Tips to keep your grass green and healthy through the heat

Late summer can be tough on lawns — scorching temperatures, dry spells, and foot traffic from backyard fun can leave your yard looking worn out. But with the right care, your lawn can stay lush, green, and healthy as the seasons begin to shift.

Here are a few simple strategies to help you manage your lawn in late summer:

✅ 1. Water Smart — Deep and Infrequent

Instead of frequent light watering, switch to deep watering 2–3 times per week. This encourages roots to grow deeper, making your lawn more drought-tolerant.

✅ 2. Mow High

Set your mower blade higher — around 3 to 3.5 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, retains moisture, and helps prevent weeds from taking over.

✅ 3. Tackle Weeds Now

Late summer is a great time to spot-treat weeds like crabgrass or dandelions. Prevent them from going to seed and spreading even more next year.

✅ 4. Don’t Fertilize Just Yet

Hold off on fertilizing until early fall, when your lawn is preparing for cooler weather. Fertilizing in extreme heat can damage your grass.

✅ 5. Aerate for Better Soil Health

If your lawn sees a lot of foot traffic or feels compacted, consider aeration. It allows water, nutrients, and air to reach the roots more effectively.

✅ 6. Sharpen Those Mower Blades

A dull blade tears grass instead of cutting it cleanly, leading to browning and stress. Keep blades sharp for a cleaner cut and healthier turf.