6 Essential Tips for Late Summer Lawn Care

As summer winds down, your lawn may show signs of stress from the hot temperatures and increased foot traffic. Late summer is a crucial time for lawn care, as what you do now can set the stage for a healthy, vibrant lawn come fall and spring. Here are six essential tips from the team at Lawn Plus LLC.

1. Continue Mowing Properly

Even as summer winds down, keeping up with regular mowing is important. However, avoid cutting your grass too short during late summer. A slightly longer lawn, about 3 to 3.5 inches, helps shade the soil, reducing water evaporation and keeping roots cooler. This extra length also helps prevent weeds from taking root. Remember to keep your mower blades sharp to ensure a clean cut, which reduces stress on the grass.

2. Water Deeply and Infrequently

By late summer, your lawn may be thirsty due to the season’s heat. To keep it healthy, water deeply and less frequently rather than shallow, frequent watering. This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, making your lawn more resilient to drought. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Watering in the early morning is best, as it allows the grass to dry before evening, reducing the risk of disease.

3. Address Weeds

Late summer is an excellent time to tackle any persistent weeds that have survived the earlier part of the season. Weeds like crabgrass, dandelions, and clover may thrive in the heat, so removing them before they spread seed and is important. Consider using a post-emergent herbicide or manually pulling the weeds.

4. Fertilize Wisely

Late summer is not typically the best time for heavy fertilization. Still, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can help your lawn recover from summer stress and prepare for the cooler fall months. Be sure to choose a fertilizer that suits your lawn’s specific needs. Too much nitrogen can cause excessive growth that may not be sustainable as the temperatures cool.

5. Aerate if Needed

If your lawn sees heavy traffic or shows signs of compaction, late summer is an excellent time to consider aeration. Aerating your lawn helps to relieve soil compaction, allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more easily. This encourages healthy root growth and improves the overall health of your lawn.

6. Watch for Pests and Diseases

Summer can be harsh on lawns, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. Look for signs of trouble, such as brown patches, thinning grass, or insect activity. If you notice any issues, treat them promptly with the appropriate methods. Regular monitoring can help catch problems early before they cause significant damage.

Are you seeking expert lawn care services in the Dayton or West Alexandria areas? Look no further than Lawn Plus LLC. Our professionals will have your lawn looking pristine. Call us today at (937) 839-5296 to request a quote.