As summer fades, your lawn may show signs of stress from heat and drought. Transitioning into fall is the perfect time to revitalize your grass and prepare it for cooler weather. End-of-summer lawn care is crucial for promoting healthy growth as the cooler months approach, ensuring your grass can bounce back and stay vibrant.
While temperatures drop, and it’s more comfortable to work outside, here are five tips to help your lawn recover from the summer stress.
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Mow the Lawn Correctly
As temperatures start to drop, lower your mower’s cutting height. Shorter grass helps prevent fungal diseases. A height of 2.5 to 3 inches is ideal for most lawns. However, avoid cutting it too short, as this could weaken the health of your lawn.
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Aerate the Soil
Late summer is the perfect time to start aerating your lawn. Aeration helps loosen compacted soil, improves water absorption, and allows air to reach the grassroots. This task be performed with a manual aerator, or you can hire a professional to assist.
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Remove Weeds
Weeds have a tendency to thrive well into the late summer months. Pull them by hand or apply a targeted herbicide to prevent them from taking over your lawn.
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Water Deeply and Frequently
If your lawn has experienced a dry spell due to water restrictions, or has suffered from summer heat, now is the time to focus on proper watering. Water deeply, allowing the moisture to penetrate the soil. This will encourage strong root growth.
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Fertilize for Fall
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Applying a fertilizer in late summer helps your lawn recover from summer stress. Look for a fertilizer that is balanced with a higher nitrogen content to encourage healthy growth.
By following these steps, you’re investing time and effort into the long-term health of your lawn. Taking the time to complete these extra steps will help your lawn recover from a hot and stressful summer. Come springtime, your efforts will pay off with a healthy green lawn that is ready to thrive.
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