The average American spends about 40 hours per year
mowing their lawn, according to Audubon.org. That does not include the time spent maintaining lawn equipment, weeding, watering, or doing other necessary items. It is apparent that people who have a lawn like to have a great looking lawn, but it can become difficult to
keep a lawn looking green all summer long. By following a few tips, you can help your lawn be the envy of all your neighbors.
Trim Your Grass, Don't Scalp It
Lawn mowing plays a major role in your yard's appearance, and it is important to
adjust your lawn mower as summer heats up. You can raise the cut height of your lawn mower by adjusting the setting of your wheels. You want your grass to be 2 – 2 ½ inches tall after you mow it. Longer grass will help keep the sun from reaching the soil, which will allow the soil to stay moist longer. Doing this can give your grass the opportunity it needs to thrive in the heat of the summer.
Know Your Grass
Different
types of grass grow better in different climates. In the Northern regions of the US, Kentucky blue grass is one of the most popular varieties. Among the Southern areas of the US, the Bermuda blends reign supreme. If you understand the subtle differences between
grass types, you'll be able to manage your yard better. If you're planning to plant grass seed, remember that a well-maintained grass in the appropriate climate will usually look better than a highly maintained grass in the wrong climate. You also need to pick the right grass when patching, reseeding or over-seeding.
Understand Pets vs. Your Lawn
If you have a pet, you know how much joy it can bring to you and your family. However, your lawn doesn't always feel the same way. A pet's urine is high in uric acid and nitrogen. This mixture essentially results in
over fertilizing your lawn and causes brown spots or dead areas. You can help the situation by using some of the following options:
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Walk your animals at regular intervals throughout the day. Pets will often stop for numerous breaks along the way, which can keep your grass looking green.
- Wash away urine, especially if you don't want to anger your neighbors. To do this, thoroughly water down the area where the animal urinated within eight hours of the event. You may need to use this solution if your neighbor has pets that like to visit your yard.
- Use a lawn repair kit to patch the area if you didn't wash the urine away quickly enough. This kit has mulch, fertilizer and seed. Mix and turn the soil of the damaged area, spread the repair mix and keep the area well watered. In as little as four days, you should see new grass.
Host a Mid-Summer Feast
To keep a healthy yard, it is a good idea to spread a mid-summer
fertilizer. For this time of year, it is best to use a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content. Manufacturers use the first number in the set of numbers on the fertilizer bag to represent nitrogen. High nitrogen will allow for fast growth and dark green color. Spread it after you have mowed and when the grass is dry. Use a spreader on the lowest setting possible, overlapping and repeating for even coverage. Once you finish, water your lawn well.
Establish a Sunrise Breakfast Routine
The best time to water grass is very early in the morning. If you can manage 5 a.m., you will have the best results. Morning is better than during the day because your grass will absorb more water into the soil. This time of day is also better than the evening because many kinds of fungus thrive at nighttime and need water to do it. You only need to water a couple of times per week, but it should be a good soak with about 1 – 1 ½ inches of water. Deep watering results in deep roots, which will be hardier against drought and heat.
Enjoy Green Grass
Summertime is a great season to enjoy your yard, especially if it looks great. However, keeping your yard healthy has other added benefits. For one, you'll be able to enjoy a beautiful yard through the colder seasons. Pairing green grass with a
landscaping design can also help you create an exterior space with equity. Everyone loves summer, and with your help, your grass will, too. For more
landscaping ideas, check out our DIY blog.
