As the scorching summer heat gives way to the milder temperature of fall, it's time to prepare your lawn for the months ahead. Following our tips, you can properly care for your Lehigh Valley lawn during the late summer months and ensure your lawn looks beautiful and healthy all year round.
#1. Mow your grass at the proper height
A proper mowing height is a prerequisite for a healthy lawn. When mowing your lawn in the late summer months, do not cut below 2.5 inches and above 3 inches.
Mowing at this height blocks sunlight from reaching the soil, preventing weed seed germination. Maintaining this height also reduces the need for frequent watering and ensures enough blade surface area for photosynthesis.
#2. Water your lawn adequately
Watering the right way is crucial during the late summer for a healthy lawn. It's best to water in the early mornings when the temperatures are lower to minimize the growth of fungi.
Another technique is to water deeply but infrequently. Providing a minimum of one inch of water each week will help encourage deep-root growth.
#3. Practice grass cycling
Grass cycling involves leaving your grass clippings on the lawn instead of bagging and throwing them away. Grass clippings contain the essential nutrients your plants need to look fresh and revived.
As microbes act on the clippings, they decompose and return nutrients to the soil. This practice supplies organic nutrients, helping to reduce the need for additional fertilization.
#4. Sharpen your mower blades
Mower blades should cut grass blades neatly. But when you use dull mower blades, the opposite is the case, with repercussions on your lawn.
Dull mower blades bend and tear the grass blades, leaving them susceptible to diseases and pests. If it's been a while since you sharpen your mower blade, do so to promote healthier grass growth.
#5. Use a weed killer
Stubborn weeds may seem harmless at first and can be easy to miss. If you don't snuff them out early, they can quickly produce seeds and spread, taking over your lawn. At first sight, spring into action by pulling them out from the root to prevent regrowth.
You can also apply selective weed killers that target the specific weeds growing on your lawn. However, follow the instructions before use, or even better, hire a lawn care expert.
Achieve a vibrant and resilient lawn in fall and beyond
With these tips, you can stay on top of your late summer lawn care and ensure a vibrant and resilient lawn in the fall and throughout the year.
If you need professional help, don't hesitate to contact us. We provide late summer care services in Lehigh Valley and will be glad to help you establish a healthy and beautiful lawn.