Maintaining an attractive lawn year-round is important, especially during New Zealand’s hottest months. To ensure your lawn thrives this summer, consider these simple steps.
Mowing
Regular mowing not only impresses your neighbours but also promotes your lawn’s health. While it may be tempting to tackle knee-high grass for the dramatic transformation, weekly (or even more frequent) mowing is ideal for a lush and thriving lawn. During summer, raise your cutting deck slightly to leave your grass a bit longer.
This provides shade and cooling for the roots, preventing dehydration.
Mulching occasionally can boost your lawn’s nutrient intake, as the clippings break down into the soil, providing insulation and retaining moisture. Avoid letting mulch accumulate too much, as it can hinder nutrient absorption. Try to mow earlier in the day to avoid leaf blade burning during the peak heat.
Mower Maintenance
Prepare your mower for the summer heat by ensuring it’s in top shape. Service your mower, and pay attention to the blades. Sharp blades lead to a neater and healthier lawn, reducing the risk of weakened grass and pests that thrive on damaged lawns.
Watering
Watering your lawn in summer is essential, but timing and proper management matter. Early morning watering allows moisture to penetrate the soil before evaporation begins. Although evening watering may seem convenient, it can increase the risk of fungal issues. Adequate aeration is crucial for lawns with compacted soil, enabling better nutrient, air, and water absorption. If you observe water pooling or runoff, especially on water-repellent soil, consider using a wetting agent. Wetting agents improve water absorption and retention, making them useful during droughts or water restrictions.
Fertilizing
Boost your lawn’s nutrients and vitality by fertilizing it in addition to regular watering. Opt for a slow-release formula that lasts throughout the season or choose a fertilizer infused with a wetting agent if moisture absorption is a concern. Applying fertilizer early in the season is best to avoid scorching your lawn in high temperatures. For summer, opt for a low-nitrogen fertilizer to prevent burning.
Weeding
Stay vigilant against weeds during the peak growing season of summer. Regularly addressing weeds is crucial to prevent them from spreading or overtaking your lawn.
Keep an eye out for weeds that thrive in the heat. Patch any bare spots with lawn seed and fertilizer to ensure uniform growth throughout the season.
