After a
relatively cool and wet month, June is ending with a reminder of what summer
can be like in New England. A couple
days in the 90’s with summer humidity really takes a toll on us. And it
certainly can affect our lawns and landscapes.
The
lush growing conditions for our lawns during June allowed grass plants to
easily find water readily available near the soil surface. Unfortunately with
summer heat, usually comes drying conditions. The heat will cause the soil to
dry faster and because the turf roots have been able to stay close to the
surface for water, many lawns will likely suffer heat stress during hot dry
days.
Unfortunately
heat stress can be like a sunburn to your lawn. When it gets burned, it likely
will start to turn first a grayish blue, then quickly to a straw brown color.
This is the grass going into a resting mode. There’s no permanent damage and
once you water enough to stimulate new growth, the turf usually recovers and
greens up in about two weeks time. Sometimes that stress on the turf can cause
summer diseases, but those are secondary to the fact that the growing
conditions are just making it difficult for our cool season grasses to survive
the heat.
Some
tips to help your lawn during the summer weather:
R Mow
at the correct height (3 to 3-1/2”).
R Water,
water, water.... Summer Showers and thunderstorms don’t usually help!
In heat of summer you will need to water several times a week, depending on your
soil type and how much sun your lawn receives. If your lawn is in full sun and
if it’s above 85 degrees with no rain, you may need to water every day.
Otherwise you probably need to water every 2-3 days during the summer.
R Leave
the clippings on your lawn when you mow to add nitrogen to the lawn in the best
organic form. Your lawn will be healthier and greener! And no, it doesn’t make
more thatch!
R Red-thread
fungus is lingering on lawns and we may see “dollar spot” - another fungus that
shows up when the weather is hot and dry. We manage both with regular
fertilizer treatments and by working with you on the best cultural care of your
lawn. Regular watering will help release nutrients and speed the recovery of
those spots. (It’s kind of like growing out a bad hair cut – it can take a
couple weeks.) If fungus is a continuing problem, ask about adding a disease
control program.
If your lawn just doesn’t look right, be sure to call
us at Weed Man for a quick check-up. Our goal is to work with you to have the
best lawn possible.
