Create lawn heaven this summer

Summer brings lots of fun – and lawn stress! Hot sun, dry windsand all manner of foot traffic can tire your grass but with the right care, it stays green and resilient all season. 

1. Water wisely through the season

During summer, give your lawn a deep drink every fortnight, increasing to once a week when temperatures soar or rainfall isscarce. On heavy clay or sandy soils, a soil wetter can help water soak in evenly, reducing runoff and making each soak more effective. Automated irrigation systems make lawn care simple and largelyset-and-forget, though occasional adjustments for local conditions may still be needed. Or you could look for models that auto-adjust. New lawns need extra attention. Keep the soil consistently moist to encourage strong root growth. Avoid laying turf in summer – autumn is the ideal time.







 

TOP TIP

The secret to a healthy, thriving lawn is simple: maintain consistent care, use correct mowing height, water deeply but infrequently, fertilise seasonally, and all will help your lawn flourish

 

2. Fertilising facts

Healthy grass starts from the ground up, so nourish the roots and leaves to keep your lawn lush and resilient. You'll find organically based fertilisers in summer are ideal, as they feed both the soil and the grass. You should apply them to damp soil and water inpromptly. For established lawns, remember to fertilise every 6-8 weeks through spring, summer and autumn. New lawns need a good deal of your extra care, so apply a higher rate about two weeks after seeding or laying turf, and always water well to get nutrients to the roots.







 

3. Mowing tips

Mow about once a week during summer, keeping blades sharp, and cutting no more than one-third of the grass each time. Cutting too short stresses the lawn, encourages weeds and makes grass more vulnerable to pests and disease. In areas prone to dry spells, leave the grass a little longer – taller grass shades the soil, reduces evaporation and helps your lawn cope with the heat. After mowing, clean your mower to prevent weed seeds from spreading.

A lush, green lawn sets the stage for picnics, play and easy outdoor entertaining.

4. Pest control

A thick, healthy lawn is better able to withstand pests but proactive care helps too. Products like Yates Grub Kill & Protect or Lawn Pride Acelepryn Granular, applied in late spring to early summer, offer long-term control of pests such as African black beetle, curl grubs and armyworm. Always follow instructions carefully to ensure effective protection and keep children and pets safe.

 

5. Party management

Heavy play and summer gatherings can compact your lawn, leaving it patchy and stressed. Aerate to relieve compaction and give grass room to grow. For small worn areas, loosen the soil with a garden fork and fertilise to encourage recovery. On heavier soils, topping with coarse sand or organic lawn top dressing improves drainage and helps your lawn stay lush, even under heavy use.