Summer Lawn Mowing Tips

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Keeping your lawn healthy and vibrant during the hot summer months takes more than just routine mowing. With rising temperatures, increased foot traffic, and potential drought conditions, summer lawn care requires a thoughtful approach. Whether you’re handling yard work yourself or considering hiring a lawn care company, these tips will help you maintain a lush, green yard all season long.

Mow the Right Way for Summer Health

One of the most important aspects of summer lawn maintenance is adjusting your mowing habits to accommodate the season. During summer, grass grows quickly, but that doesn’t mean you should cut it too short. In fact, the opposite is true. Keeping your grass a little longer helps protect the soil from excessive sun exposure and keeps moisture locked in.

Raise the height of your mower blades so you’re only removing about one-third of the grass height at a time. This reduces stress on the grass and encourages deeper root growth. Deeper roots help your lawn withstand heat and drought, making it more resilient in the peak of summer.

Another smart tip is to sharpen your mower blades frequently. Dull blades tear grass rather than cutting it cleanly, leading to frayed edges that turn brown and are more prone to disease. Aim to sharpen your blades every 4–6 weeks during the mowing season.

Also, consider mowing early in the morning or later in the evening. This helps reduce stress on both the grass and the person mowing. Midday mowing under intense sunlight can dry out your lawn and make the process uncomfortable.

Water Wisely and Mulch with Purpose

Proper watering is critical for a healthy lawn in summer. Many homeowners make the mistake of watering lightly every day. Instead, opt for deep, infrequent watering sessions. This promotes deeper root growth and makes your lawn more drought-resistant. Ideally, your lawn should get about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.

Water early in the morning when temperatures are cooler and the sun is less intense. This allows water to penetrate the soil before it evaporates. Evening watering may seem convenient, but it can encourage fungus and disease because the water lingers on the grass overnight.

Another smart practice is to leave your grass clippings on the lawn after mowing—a process known as mulching. These clippings decompose quickly and return valuable nutrients to the soil, acting as a natural fertilizer. Just make sure you’re not leaving behind clumps, which can smother the grass underneath.

If you find it challenging to balance watering, mowing, and fertilizing throughout the summer, hiring a professional lawn care company might be a good solution. They can create a customized schedule that fits your lawn’s unique needs and help ensure it stays healthy even during the harshest heat waves.

Don’t Forget Lawn Edges and Equipment Maintenance

While mowing the main sections of your lawn is important, it’s easy to forget the finishing touches.

Keeping your lawn edges neat makes your yard look cleaner and more professionally maintained. Use a string trimmer or edging tool to define borders along walkways, garden beds, and driveways. This extra step enhances your lawn’s appearance and prevents grass from creeping into unwanted areas.

Summer is also a good time to check your lawn equipment. Make sure your mower’s oil and air filters are clean, and remove any grass buildup underneath the deck. A poorly maintained mower can leave uneven cuts or even damage your lawn. Consider scheduling a professional tune-up if your mower hasn’t had service in over a year.

These simple but often overlooked practices can elevate your summer mowing routine and extend the life of your lawn equipment.

Conclusion

Summer lawn care is all about balance.

By mowing at the right height, keeping your mower blades sharp, watering deeply, and using clippings to your advantage, you can maintain a lush, green lawn throughout the season. It’s also essential to pay attention to your grass type and local climate to make adjustments as needed.

But done correctly, you can have a beautiful backyard; quickly and easily!

Whether you’re taking a DIY approach or relying on a trusted lawn care company, these summer lawn mowing tips can help you enjoy a healthy yard all summer long. A well-maintained lawn not only looks great but also provides a relaxing, inviting space for outdoor fun with family and friends. With just a little extra care and smart practices, your lawn can thrive even in the summer heat.

Jeff Campbell
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