Essential Summer Lawn Care Tips for Southern Homes: Watering, Mowing, Fertilizing, and More

Taking care of your lawn during the summer months in the South can be challenging due to high temperatures and occasional drought conditions. However, with the right approach, you can maintain a lush, green lawn that enhances the beauty of your home. Here are some essential tips for proper lawn care during the summer.

Regular Watering

  • Early Morning Watering: Water your lawn early in the morning to reduce evaporation and ensure that the grass absorbs moisture effectively.

  • Deep Watering: Water deeply but infrequently. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.

  • Check Soil Moisture: Use a screwdriver or soil probe to check soil moisture. If it’s dry below the surface, it’s time to water.

A cartoon image showing a lush green lawn in a Southern neighborhood during the summer, with a family happily watering the lawn with a garden hose
A cartoon image of a zero-turn lawnmower mowing a beautiful, manicured lawn with flowers and lush green St. Augustine grass. The scene is bright

Proper Mowing

  • Mow High: Set your mower blades higher during summer. Taller grass shades the soil and reduces water evaporation.

  • Sharp Blades: Keep your mower blades sharp to ensure clean cuts, which reduce stress on the grass.

  • Mow Regularly: Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time to maintain lawn health.

Fertilizing

  • Summer Fertilizer: Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients throughout the summer without promoting excessive growth.

  • Proper Application: Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for correct application rates and methods.

  • Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Over-fertilizing can lead to thatch build-up and increased lawn disease susceptibility.

A cartoon image of a person applying fertilizer to a lawn using a spreader, with a background of green grass and clear blue sky, showing proper lawn care.

Aeration

  • Why Aerate: Aeration helps reduce soil compaction, improves root growth, and enhances water and nutrient absorption.

  • Best Time: Aerate your lawn in late spring or early summer when the grass is actively growing.

  • Aeration Tools: Use a core aerator to remove small plugs of soil, which allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots.

Weed and Pest Control

  • Identify Weeds: Regularly inspect your lawn for weeds and use appropriate herbicides or natural methods to control them.

  • Pest Monitoring: Keep an eye out for pests such as grubs and chinch bugs, and treat infestations promptly to prevent damage.

  • Healthy Lawn Practices: Maintain a healthy lawn through proper watering, mowing, and fertilization to reduce the likelihood of weed and pest problems.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your lawn stays healthy and vibrant throughout the hot Southern summer. For professional lawn care services, contact Elite Landscapes of Valdosta. We offer comprehensive lawn maintenance packages to keep your yard looking its best all year round.