When the heat kicks in, your lawn feels it just as much as you do. Scorched patches, dried-out grass, and weeds that pop up like they own the place—summer lawn care isn’t always as cut and clear (see what i did there?) as you'd think. With a few smart tips, you can keep your yard looking solid without breaking your back (or your bank account).
Here’s what we recommend for keeping your lawn in check through the hottest months of the year:
1. Mow High, Not Low
Scalping your lawn in the summer is a rookie mistake. Taller grass shades the soil, helps retain moisture, and grows deeper roots. Set your mower to cut no more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
Bonus Tip: If you're running a zero-turn, consider installing a canopy—you'll thank us after a couple hours in the sun.
2. Water Smart, Not More
Don’t just dump water on your lawn every evening and hope for the best. Early morning (between 6–10 AM) is the sweet spot—it reduces evaporation and gives water time to soak in deep. A good lawn typically needs about 1"–1.5" of water per week, including rain.
3. Sharpen Your Mower Blades
Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it clean. That stress causes browning and makes your lawn more vulnerable to disease. Sharpen your blades at least once a season—twice if you mow often or deal with thick turf.
4. Skip the Fertilizer (for Now)
Fertilizing during peak summer heat can backfire. Most grasses go semi-dormant in the heat, and giving them a boost with fertilizer can burn the roots. If you didn’t hit it in late spring, hold off until fall.
5. Spot-Treat Weeds
Weeds love the heat. But instead of blasting your whole yard with chemicals, spot-treat problem areas with a sprayer. It’s easier on your lawn and saves you cash.
6. Leave the Clippings
Bagging your grass clippings is just creating more work for yourself. Let them mulch the lawn—they return moisture and nutrients to the soil and help keep things cooler down at the root level.
7. Take Care of Yourself Too
Hydrate. Wear sunscreen. Don't let anyone tell you that farmers tans aren't cool. But seriously, don’t be afraid to take a break when you need it. Shade canopies, fans, and a cold drink go a long way when you’re logging hours in the yard.
Final Thought
Keeping a lawn in good shape through the summer heat doesn’t mean sweating through every weekend. A few smart habits, the right tools, and knowing when to back off go a long way.
And hey—if you’re tired of baking under the sun while you mow, check out our canopy and fan bundles built for zero-turns and tractors. Stay shaded, stay cool, and keep getting the job done.