This summer was hot and dry. You and your lawn have survived the hot, dry weather, and the drought… mostly. Let’s bring that grass back to life:
- Assess the damage: Is your lawn dead or damaged? Do not despair if the grass is brown. Most grass species can withstand 4-5 weeks of dormancy without dying.
- Aerate: Core aeration allows water, air, and nutrients to access the roots of the lawn. Use this method on green lawns, and follow with regular watering.
- Don’t aerate a completely brown or dormant lawn.
- Fertilize carefully: Just as you want your grass to focus on healthy roots and water absorption during the drought, the same is true after a drought.
- Follow the manufacturer’s directions when fertilizing to avoid too-rapid growth and burning.
- Water Smart: Once the water ban is over, follow a schedule and water accordingly. Water deeply during early morning hours, from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m., to a depth of 6 to 12 inches. Don’t “sprinkle” the lawn with frequent but shallow waterings.
- Mulch-established areas: Once your grass is healthy, mow and mulch your grass clippings into the lawn to help retain water and build a strong root system.
- Continue to mow high, and stop mowing if you notice the lawn is under stress.
- Create a lawn renovation plan: Come up with a plan for over-seeding dead or struggling patches of lawn. Add compost where necessary, rethink the choice of grass or grass seed mix, and select one that is drought resistant. The right grass on your new lawn may help you withstand the next drought.