We’re already in July here in Roseville, Michigan. How is your yard looking? Is it lush and green? Or is it yellow and sad looking? Achieving a lush, green carpet throughout the hotter months isn’t just about wishing for it; it requires a strategic approach. Summer can be tough on your turf, but with the proper care, your lawn can thrive. Lucky for you, you have the lawn care experts at Lakeside Pro Services on your side!
At Lakeside Pro Services, we’re dedicated to helping Roseville homeowners maintain beautiful, healthy landscapes. While spring and fall are prime times for specific tasks, summer brings its own unique set of challenges and opportunities for optimal lawn care. Here’s our ultimate guide to keeping your lawn vibrant from core aeration to proper watering:
Consider core aeration for long-term health
Many homeowners think core aeration is a spring or fall task, but it can still be beneficial in the summer, especially if your lawn suffers from compaction. Core aeration involves removing small plugs of soil from your lawn. This seemingly simple action offers huge benefits:
- Improves air circulation: Allows grass roots to breathe.
- Enhances water penetration: Water, nutrients, and fertilizer can reach the root zone more effectively.
- Reduces compaction: Alleviates stress on the grass.
- Promotes stronger roots: Encourages deeper, more robust root growth, making your lawn more resilient to summer stress.
If your lawn sees heavy foot traffic or has dense clay soil, aeration and proper watering can be game-changing.
Master the art of watering your lawn
You set out the sprinkler this weekend, so you are good, right? Not necessarily. Watering is arguably the most crucial summer lawn care practice. Incorrect watering can do more harm than good.
- Water deeply and infrequently: Instead of daily shallow sprinkles, aim for 1 inch of water per week, applied in one or two sessions. This encourages roots to grow deeper, making the grass more drought-resistant.
- Timing is everything: Water early in the morning (between 4 AM and 9 AM). This minimizes evaporation and allows the grass blades to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
- Watch for signs: Wilting, a dull bluish-gray color, or footprints on the grass are all signs your lawn needs a drink.
Fertilize smart, not heavy
Summer fertilization needs to be handled with care. A heavy nitrogen application during peak heat can burn your lawn.
- Slow-release formulas: If you fertilize, opt for a slow-release granular fertilizer designed for summer application. These provide a steady supply of nutrients without overwhelming the grass.
- Soil testing: Consider a soil test to determine specific nutrient deficiencies before applying any fertilizer. Lakeside Pro Services can assist with this.
- Foliar feeding: For a quick boost without risk of burn, a liquid foliar feed can provide essential micronutrients directly to the leaves.
Mow high and often
Your mower settings play a significant role in summer lawn health.
- Raise your blade: Set your mower height to at least 3 inches or higher for cool-season grasses. Taller grass shades the soil, helping retain moisture and suppressing weeds.
- The “one-third rule”: Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade’s height in a single mowing. Scalping your lawn stresses it out, making it vulnerable to disease and pests.
- Leave the clippings: Unless they’re clumped heavily, leave grass clippings on the lawn. They return valuable nutrients to the soil and act as a natural mulch.
Be vigilant with weeds and pests
Summer heat can bring out unwanted guests who try to crash your lawn party and take over valuable space.
- Spot treat weeds: Address individual weeds promptly to prevent them from spreading. Using a targeted herbicide can be more effective than broad applications.
- Identify pests early: Keep an eye out for signs of insect activity, like brown patches or chewing marks. Early detection is key to effective control.
By following these essential summer lawn care tips, you can help your Roseville lawn survive and thrive through the hottest months. Need a hand with core aeration, fertilization, or identifying those pesky lawn problems? Contact Lakeside Pro Services today at 586-445-2100. We’re here to ensure your lawn is the envy of the neighborhood!