Late Summer Heat Takes a Toll on Michigan Lawns
August in Michigan may not feel extreme, but the combination of high temperatures, dry conditions, and increased yard traffic can push your lawn into stress mode. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue, common throughout Roseville and surrounding areas, naturally slow their growth and show signs of wear during this time of year. If your yard is starting to look dry, thin, or patchy, it is not just bad luck. Your grass is reacting to the heat and needs help to stay healthy through the end of summer. Recognizing the early signs of stress and acting now can prevent long-term damage and set your lawn up for a strong fall rebound.
Feed Your Lawn Now to Support Root Health
Even when grass is not growing quickly above the surface, its roots are still active. Applying the right fertilizer in August helps replenish the nutrients lost during summer and gives your lawn the strength it needs to withstand the remaining heat. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer supports root development without overfeeding the grass blades. This means you are building a more resilient lawn from the ground up. Timing is key. Fertilizing too late can interfere with fall growth patterns, while fertilizing too early may waste nutrients. Lakeside Pro Services can help determine the best product and schedule for your lawn based on current soil conditions.
Aeration Relieves Compaction and Boosts Recovery
Foot traffic, heavy rainfall, and summer drought all contribute to compacted soil, which restricts airflow and limits the amount of water and nutrients that reach the roots. Aeration breaks up that compaction by pulling small plugs of soil from the ground. This opens up the root zone and encourages deeper root growth—exactly what your lawn needs to survive the heat. Aeration is especially effective in late summer, when the soil is still soft and the lawn has time to recover before cooler weather. It also improves the results of any fertilizer or seeding you plan to do heading into fall.
Don’t Overlook Grubs and Heat-Loving Pests
Grubs are a hidden threat to Michigan lawns in August. These small beetle larvae feed on the roots of your grass, weakening it from below and leaving behind brown patches that lift up like carpet. While the damage might seem minor at first, grub infestations can spread quickly and cause widespread turf loss by fall. Late summer is the best time to treat for grubs, as they are still near the surface and more responsive to treatment. If you are noticing digging animals, thinning grass, or spongy spots, a professional inspection can help confirm the problem and eliminate it before it worsens.
Water Smarter, Not Harder
Watering is one of the most misunderstood aspects of lawn care during summer. Many homeowners either water too often or too late in the day, which leads to shallow roots, evaporation, and even fungal growth. The most effective watering method is deep and infrequent—giving your lawn about an inch of water once or twice a week. Early morning is the ideal time to water, as it allows for proper absorption without the harsh afternoon sun stealing moisture. If you use a sprinkler system, make sure it is working efficiently and not wasting water on sidewalks or driveways. Lakeside Pro offers irrigation tune-ups to help you get the most out of every drop.
Finish Summer Strong and Prepare for Fall
What you do in August has a lasting impact on your lawn’s health heading into fall. With the right combination of fertilizer, aeration, watering, and pest control, your yard can survive the heat and bounce back even stronger. This is the season to stay proactive, not reactive. Lakeside Pro Services is here to help homeowners across Roseville and Southeast Michigan protect their lawns and enjoy vibrant, healthy turf year-round. Just give us a call at 586.445.2100.