Summer Lawn Care and Maintenance: The Ultimate Guide for UK Gardeners

A gardeners wheelbarrow with the gardening tools in the gardens.

When summer rolls around, UK gardeners know that providing the right care for their lawns can make all the difference between a lush, green oasis and a dry, patchy yard. As the temperature rises and rainfall becomes unpredictable, lawns require specific attention to thrive. In this guide, we'll explore comprehensive summer lawn care strategies to keep your grass healthy and vibrant. From watering tips to effective fertilisers, we've got you covered.

Summer is a time when you should be able to take advantage of all the work you carried out by way of lawncare in the Spring months. Mowing will be at a minimum - especially in hot dry spells - and other main cultural lawn care operations are normally carried out in Spring and Autumn. So, pull up a few chairs, get the BBQ going and put down the lawn mats for a picnic outside. What else is the lawn for, but to enjoy!

Generally, far too much mowing is carried out in the Summer months. Maybe out of habit, the mower is started every Saturday or Sunday. Maybe essentially because this is the only free time from your normal work schedule. How much better life would be if you realised that mowing frequencies should actually reduce in the summer.

Also - to help matters more - you can lift the cutting height of the mower blades to allow the grass to grow a little longer. This is good for sitting and lazing about on the lawn in the summer (we wish!) but is also helpful for the lawn!

A slightly longer sward of turf grass will help the lawn get through the summer more easily, by way of providing a barrier between the sun and the earth. Longer grass will act as a mulch - conserving soil moisture, which in turn allows for less watering, and greener grass.

garden lawn care tools and equipment for perfect green grass.

Lawncare on new lawns laid in the last Autumn or recent Spring, will be the main exception to the lazy options outlined above!

Newly laid lawns will most certainly require regular mowing and possibly a little bit of renovation work to repair brown patches. It is rare for a newly turfed lawn to get by unscathed in a hot, dry summer. Those lawns laid in the Autumn will have a greater change of total survival, owing to the fact that their roots will have penetrated to soil to a depth of 5cms or more. Not so generally with spring laid lawns.

In a dry summer, watering a new lawn will probably be required every few days or so on newly laid lawns. When watering, ensure that there is soil penetration of 5cms or more. This is best carried out over time. A quick flooding with a hosepipe, will invariably lead to wet areas in some places and dry in others. heavy-drop sprinklers are the best way to get an even penetration. Normally, 2-3cms of water is sufficient.

Easy to measure with a few straight sided drinking glasses placed in the sprinkler range. Then simply measure the depth of water! Do this a couple of times and you will be able to assess how long you need to water to get sufficient penetration.

Mowing will be needed more frequently as a result of the watering. Keep the mower blades higher than normal to allow the grass to grow between cuts. You can cut every week - but at a height of around 3cms. The extra grass foliage will allow the newly planted grasses (plants) to play their part in helping the root system as is synthesizes food to send back to the whole plant!

Don't feed new lawns in the Summer months. If your preparatory work was carried out properly - no need! Any feeding will mean added growth of the foliage - at a time when the root system is at its weakest.

Closeup low angle view of automatic lawn sprinkler watering in the garden using as agricultural and fresh cover page concept

Watering

Now after suggesting to you that maintenance of establish lawns can almost - not quite - cease in the summer months, I have to explain how to go about the various tasks for those who absolutely insist that their lawn should be pristine green throughout the summer!

Watering the lawn is rarely needed on a normal established garden lawn. The grass varieties used are normally capable of withstanding drought conditions for many weeks. Yes, they will probably turn brown, but soon after any rainfall, they will revert back to the green lawn that we all love so much. Not going to get into discussions about the environment and water conservation. That is for your own conscience. (You may also be aware of the cost of unnecessary watering if you are on a metered system!)

The lawn on the left will recover within a week of being rained upon. It might not be pleasant to sit on in this condition, but it will do no harm. But no heavy footed games on this please! If you decide that you are going to water your lawn throughout the summer and just cannot bear the sight of a natural browning process, then do so at night, when the water has better chance of percolating down through the soil, rather than being recycled by nature in the way of evaporation. The evaporation aspect is always underestimated! Place a saucer of water on your patio for a few hours in the hot sun and see what happens!

Mowing The Lawn

If and when you have to mow your lawn, raise the mower blades to around a minimum of 3cms and forget about mowing under trees. Let the grass grow and form its own mulch under trees and overhanging shrubs.

Realise, that the grass is at its weakest during the summer. If you cut off the foliage, then the grass will attempt to regenerate that foliage. For it to do that, it will require soil moisture! It's a big circle!

Don't worry about a little browning - providing it is caused by drought conditions. You will have a greener lawn in the summer if you cut high!

Lawn care - Lawn Spring Fertilization tool

Feeding a lawn in the summer is not necessary - or desirable - unless you have decided to water regular (in which case you will not have read this far!) If you fertilise, you will be encouraging the grass to grow, use water, and ultimately require water.

You may end up with a green lawn by watering, cutting short and feeding. You may also scorch and kill the grassed if the fertiliser is applied wrongly. It happens a lot!

In short, summer is the season when grass grows least. Why try to go against its wishes. Just enjoy it!

Needless to say, maintenance tasks such as raking, scarifying or aeration is not an option in the summer. The grass plants (don't forget that they are plants) are easily ripped up by such operations in the summer.

Green grass and Dry grass

Over-seeding, re-turfing, and any form of patching is best left until late summer, when there is normally natural soil moisture and dew to help establishment. Likewise with any moss-killing. However, early summer ifs a good time for applying Lawn Sand to deal with moss.

Summer is also a good time for spot treatment of weeds - which of course are happy to stay green in the summer months. A ready to use lawn weed gun will see off all but the most stubborn weeds. The day before, water the weed area with a can to keep them growing well. Lawn weed killers work best on weeds that are actually growing well.

If you heed this advice - or maybe just some of it - you will have some time to see what else needs doing in the garden in July - August 

 

Fresh gardening green Bermuda grass smooth lawn with curve form of bush, trees on the background in the house's garden under morning sunlight

To help you navigate through summer lawn care, here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Assessment: Inspect your lawn for any signs of stress, such as yellowing or thinning grass.
2. Aeration: Use a garden fork or aerator to create holes in the soil. This allows water, oxygen, and nutrients to reach the grass roots more effectively.
3. Weeding: Control weeds using organic herbicides or manual removal to prevent competition for resources.
4. Feeding: Apply a balanced summer fertiliser, following the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
5. Watering: Implement a consistent watering schedule, focusing on deep, infrequent watering rather than shallow, daily sessions.
6. Mowing: Mow regularly, but never remove more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time.

Lawn Weeds character and weed monster as dandelion with clover crab grass pest weeds problem as a symbol for herbicide use in the garden or gardening for lawn care and grubs destroying roots.

As summer arrives, UK lawns face a variety of challenges. Here are some common issues and how you can address them:

Drought Stress

The warm summer months can often lead to drought stress in your lawn, characterized by wilting and a greyish tint. To keep your lawn lush and vibrant:

• Deep Watering: Ensure you water deeply, reaching the roots. This helps promote stronger root growth and resilience against heat.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and provide a cooling effect for the roots. Mulch also reduces evaporation and suppresses weed growth.

Lawn Diseases

Summer is prime time for various lawn diseases, which thrive in the warm, humid conditions. Some common diseases include:

• Red Thread: This disease shows up as red or pinkish threads on the grass. It's often found in nitrogen-deficient soils.
• Rust: Look for yellow-orange spores on grass blades. Rust can weaken your lawn and make it more susceptible to other stresses.

To manage these diseases:

• Air Circulation: Ensure your lawn has good air circulation by regularly mowing and dethatching.
• Watering Practices: Avoid watering in the evening as prolonged moisture encourages fungal growth. Instead, water early in the morning.

Pest Infestations

Pests like grubs can cause significant damage to your lawn. Signs of pest infestations include irregular brown patches and birds pecking at your lawn (they might be feeding on the grubs).

To tackle pest problems:

• Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators, such as birds and beneficial insects, which help control pest populations.
• Organic Treatments: Use organic treatments like nematodes, which are microscopic worms that seek out and destroy grubs.

Additional Tips

Besides the main issues mentioned, here are a few more things to watch out for during summer:

• Leaf Spot Disease: This disease causes small, dark lesions on grass blades and can spread quickly in high humidity.
• Fairy Rings: These appear as darker green rings or circles in your lawn. They are caused by fungi growing in the soil.

By identifying and addressing these common summer lawn problems, you can maintain a healthy, beautiful lawn throughout the season. Regular monitoring and adopting preventive measures will go a long way in ensuring your lawn remains green and thriving.

Pests and disease cause amount of damage to green lawns, lawn in bad condition and need maintaining, Landscaped Formal Garden, Front yard with garden design, Peaceful Garden, Path in the garden.

Brown patches can be a gardener's nightmare, turning lush green lawns into unsightly, patchy spaces. However, with some proactive steps, you can keep your lawn vibrant and healthy. Here’s how:

Proper Watering

Watering is crucial for maintaining a lush lawn, but it's important to do it right:

• Even Coverage: Use sprinkler systems or hoses to ensure water is distributed evenly across your lawn. Uneven watering can create dry spots that are prone to browning.
• Avoid Overwatering: While it's vital to keep your lawn hydrated, too much water can lead to fungal growth and root rot. Aim to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between sessions.

Aeration

One of the keys to preventing brown patches is ensuring your soil remains loose and breathable:

• Regular Aeration: Compacted soil restricts root growth and reduces water absorption, leading to brown patches. Use a lawn aerator to perforate the soil with small holes, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeply.
• Timing: The best time to aerate is during the growing season when the grass can quickly recover, typically in spring or early autumn for UK lawns.

Thatch Control

Thatch is a layer of organic matter that accumulates between the grass blades and the soil surface. While some thatch is beneficial, too much can be detrimental:

• Identify Thatch: Check for a spongy layer on the soil surface. If the thatch layer is more than half an inch thick, it's time to take action.
• Dethatching: Use a dethatching rake or machine to remove excess thatch, allowing water and nutrients to reach the soil more effectively. This process also helps to reduce the likelihood of pest infestations and diseases.

Additional Tips

To further enhance your lawn's health and prevent brown patches, consider these additional practices:

• Proper Mowing: Keep your mower blades sharp and avoid cutting the grass too short, which can stress the lawn and exacerbate brown patches.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients. Be mindful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause burning and contribute to brown patches.
• Pest Management: Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of pests such as grubs, which can damage roots and create brown areas. Implement natural or chemical treatments as needed.

Engage in Routine Lawn Care

A healthy lawn requires consistent care and attention. By incorporating these practices into your regular gardening routine, you'll be well on your way to achieving a lush, green lawn free from unsightly brown patches. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in creating a beautiful and resilient garden space!

 

Dry yellow grass close-up.

Taking care of your lawn during the summer can be a rewarding task that results in a lush, green landscape. Creating a schedule can help manage your lawn care tasks effectively and ensure your lawn remains healthy and beautiful all season long. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to focus on each month:

June: Kickstart Your Lawn's Summer Health

June marks the beginning of summer, and it's the perfect time to set the foundation for a healthy lawn.

• Aeration: Start by aerating your lawn to alleviate soil compaction and improve water and nutrient absorption. This will help your grass roots grow deeper and stronger.
• Summer-Specific Fertiliser: Apply a fertiliser formulated specifically for summer. These fertilisers typically have higher potassium content, which helps grass withstand heat and drought conditions. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
• Weed Inspection: Conduct a thorough inspection of your lawn for any emerging weeds. Early intervention with appropriate weed control methods can save you from larger issues later in the season.

July: Maintain Moisture and Vigilance

July is often one of the hottest months, and your lawn will need extra attention to stay hydrated and healthy.

• Deep Watering: Focus on watering deeply and consistently. Aim to water your lawn early in the morning to reduce evaporation and allow the grass to dry before evening, minimizing the risk of fungal diseases. Ensure that your lawn receives about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.
• Weed and Pest Monitoring: Keep a vigilant eye on your lawn for weeds and pests. Regularly check for signs of stress, such as discolored patches or increased bird activity (which may indicate pests like grubs). Use organic or chemical treatments as necessary to manage these issues.
• Mowing Practices: Maintain regular mowing, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time. This helps prevent stress and encourages denser growth.

August: Sustain Growth and Address Stress

As summer progresses, continue to support your lawn's health with consistent care and adjustments based on its condition.

• Regular Mowing: Keep up with regular mowing, but consider raising the mowing height slightly to keep the grass a bit longer. Taller grass blades provide shade to the soil, reducing water loss and helping to choke out weeds.
• Stress Assessment: Reassess your lawn for any signs of stress, such as thinning areas or color changes. Address these issues promptly by adjusting your watering schedule or applying treatments as needed.
• Disease Prevention: Stay alert for signs of lawn diseases, particularly if the weather is humid. Ensure good air circulation by keeping the grass properly trimmed and avoiding excessive thatch buildup.

Additional Tips for Summer Lawn Care

To maximize the effectiveness of your summer lawn care schedule, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Edge Trimming: Regularly trim the edges of your lawn to maintain a neat appearance and prevent the spread of weeds from garden beds or pathways.
• Lawn Equipment Maintenance: Keep your lawn mower blades sharp to ensure clean cuts, which help reduce stress on the grass.
• Soil Health: Consider testing your soil's pH and nutrient levels to make informed decisions about fertilisation and other treatments.

By adhering to this summer lawn care schedule and paying attention to your lawn's needs, you'll create a vibrant and resilient landscape that can withstand the challenges of the season.

 

Lawn mower on green grass

Selecting the right lawn mower is crucial for maintaining a lush, healthy lawn throughout the summer. Whether you have a small urban garden or a sprawling country lawn, choosing the appropriate mower can make all the difference. Here are some top options tailored to different needs:

Cylinder Mowers: Precision for Fine Lawns

Cylinder mowers, also known as reel mowers, are ideal for those who take pride in their fine, manicured lawns.

• Clean Cut: These mowers feature a series of blades that rotate vertically, cutting grass with a scissor-like action. This method provides a precise, clean cut, which is less damaging to the grass and helps promote healthier growth.
• Ideal Use: Best suited for flat, well-maintained lawns, cylinder mowers excel in cutting shorter grass and delivering a pristine finish.
• Maintenance Needs: Regular sharpening of the blades is essential to maintain performance, but the results are worth the effort for those seeking a professional-looking lawn.

Rotary Mowers: Versatile and Reliable

Rotary mowers are the workhorses of the lawn care world, offering versatility and reliability suitable for a variety of lawn types.

• Cutting Mechanism: Equipped with a single horizontal blade that spins at high speed, rotary mowers can handle longer grass and tougher lawn conditions effortlessly.
• Versatility: These mowers are effective on both flat and uneven terrains, making them a popular choice for many gardeners. They can manage different grass heights and types, providing flexibility in lawn maintenance.
• Power Options: Available in electric, petrol, and cordless battery-powered models, rotary mowers cater to various preferences and garden sizes. Electric models are quieter and more eco-friendly, while petrol mowers offer more power for larger areas.

Hover Mowers: Effortless Maneuverability on Uneven Terrain

If your lawn features slopes, hills, or hard-to-reach areas, hover mowers can be a game-changer.

• Floating Design: Hover mowers create a cushion of air between the mower and the grass, allowing them to glide seamlessly over the surface. This makes them exceptionally easy to maneuver, especially on uneven ground.
• Suitable Areas: Ideal for gardens with complex layouts, including flower beds, pathways, and other obstacles. Their lightweight design and ease of use make them perfect for those tricky spots where conventional mowers struggle.
• Ease of Storage: Hover mowers are typically lighter and more compact than other types, making them easier to store in sheds or garages with limited space.

Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Mower

To ensure you select the best mower for your lawn care needs this summer, consider these expert tips:

• Lawn Size and Type: Assess the size and type of your lawn. Smaller, flatter lawns may benefit from the precision of cylinder mowers, while larger or more varied terrains might require the versatility of rotary or hover mowers.
• Power Source: Choose a power source that suits your lifestyle and garden size. Electric and battery-powered mowers are great for smaller areas with easy access to power, whereas petrol mowers are better for larger lawns.
• Additional Features: Look for features such as adjustable cutting heights, mulching capabilities, and ergonomic handles to enhance your mowing experience and meet specific lawn care goals.

By selecting the right mower and following a regular maintenance schedule, you can keep your lawn looking its best all summer long. With the right tools in hand, you'll be well-equipped to tackle any lawn care challenge that comes your way.

 

Sign on a green lawn - Think green

Maintaining your lawn organically not only enhances its health and appearance but also supports the environment. Here are some expert tips to keep your lawn thriving naturally this summer:

Compost and Manure: Enriching the Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of a vibrant lawn, and using organic compost or well-rotted manure can significantly improve soil quality.

• Organic Compost: Homemade compost, rich in nutrients, helps improve soil structure, moisture retention, and provides essential nutrients to your grass. Spread a thin layer of compost over your lawn in late spring or early summer to give it a nutrient boost.
• Well-Rotted Manure: Manure, especially from herbivores like cows, horses, or chickens, is an excellent organic fertilizer. Ensure it is well-rotted to avoid burning the grass. Apply it sparingly to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to nutrient imbalances.

Natural Pest Control: Balance and Harmony

Keeping pests at bay without resorting to chemicals is crucial for maintaining an organic lawn. Encouraging natural predators and using biological controls can help manage pest populations effectively.

• Beneficial Insects: Introduce and encourage beneficial insects such as ladybirds, lacewings, and predatory beetles. These natural predators feed on common lawn pests like aphids and mites, reducing their numbers naturally.
• Nematodes: Microscopic worms called nematodes can be introduced to your lawn to target and control grubs and other soil-dwelling pests. They are safe for plants, pets, and humans and are highly effective in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Herbal Remedies: Natural Deterrents

Harness the power of nature with herbal remedies to deter pests and support lawn health.

• Garlic Spray: Garlic's strong scent acts as a natural repellent for many garden pests. Make a garlic spray by blending several cloves of garlic with water and straining the mixture. Spray this solution on your lawn to keep pests at bay.
• Neem Oil: Derived from the neem tree, neem oil is a powerful natural insecticide and fungicide. Mix neem oil with water and a few drops of mild soap to create a spray that can be applied to your lawn. This mixture is particularly effective against insects like aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars.

Additional Organic Lawn Care Practices

Incorporating these additional practices will further enhance your lawn's health and sustainability:

• Aeration: Regularly aerate your lawn to alleviate soil compaction, improve water infiltration, and promote root growth. Use a manual or mechanical aerator to create small holes in the soil.
• Mulching: Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. This practice, known as mulching, returns valuable nutrients to the soil and helps retain moisture.
• Native Grasses: Consider incorporating native grass species that are well-adapted to your local climate. Native grasses often require less water and are more resistant to pests and diseases.
• Natural Weed Control: Hand-pull weeds regularly to prevent them from spreading. Corn gluten meal is an organic pre-emergent herbicide that can help prevent weed seeds from germinating.

Step-by-Step Guide: Implementing Organic Lawn Care

1. Soil Testing: Begin with a soil test to understand your soil's nutrient levels and pH. This will guide your compost and manure application.
2. Seasonal Planning: Create a seasonal care plan outlining when to aerate, fertilize, and apply pest control measures based on your lawn's specific needs.
3. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of stress, pests, and diseases. Adapt your care routine as necessary to address any emerging issues promptly.
4. Water Wisely: Water deeply but infrequently, preferably in the early morning, to reduce evaporation and fungal growth.

By adopting these organic lawn care tips, you'll create a healthy, resilient lawn that flourishes throughout the summer. Your efforts will not only result in a beautiful garden but also contribute to a sustainable and thriving ecosystem. Happy gardening!

 

lawn in garden dry and dead. Pests and disease and sun cause amount of damage to green lawns. Landscaped Formal Garden. patchy grass in bad condition and need maintaining.

Reviving a dry, drought-stricken lawn in the summer can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can bring your lawn back to life and enjoy a lush, green space once again. Follow these steps to rejuvenate your lawn effectively:

1. Deep Watering: Hydrate the Soil

When your lawn suffers from drought, the first step is to rehydrate it thoroughly.

• Initial Deep Watering: Begin with a deep watering session, ensuring that water penetrates at least 6 inches into the soil. This encourages roots to grow deeper and access moisture stored below the surface.
• Watering Schedule: Establish a consistent watering schedule, aiming for twice a week rather than daily light watering. Watering deeply but less frequently promotes stronger root systems and reduces susceptibility to drought stress.
• Early Morning Watering: Water your lawn early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow grass blades to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal infections.

2. Top Dressing: Improve Soil Structure and Retention

Enhancing soil quality is crucial for reviving a dry lawn.

• Applying Compost: Spread a thin layer (about 1/4 inch) of organic compost evenly across your lawn. Compost improves soil structure, increases nutrient availability, and enhances moisture retention, providing essential support for stressed grass.
• Raking: Lightly rake the compost into the grass to ensure it reaches the soil surface without smothering the existing grass.

3. Overseeding: Encourage New Growth

Bare patches can be an eyesore, but overseeding can help restore your lawn's fullness.

• Selecting Grass Seed: Choose a grass seed mix suitable for your region and lawn conditions. For UK lawns, consider blends that include drought-tolerant varieties like fescue or ryegrass.
• Preparing the Soil: Gently rake the soil to create a loose surface for good seed-to-soil contact. Remove any debris and break up compacted areas.
• Spreading Seed: Evenly spread the grass seed over the bare patches and lightly cover with a thin layer of topsoil or compost. This helps protect the seeds from birds and provides initial nutrients.
• Keeping Moist: Water the overseeded areas regularly to keep the soil consistently moist until the new grass establishes. This may require daily watering initially, gradually tapering off as the seedlings grow.

Additional Tips for Reviving a Dry Lawn

To ensure your lawn revival efforts are successful, consider these additional practices:

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients that support recovery and growth. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates and timing.
• Aeration: If your lawn suffers from compacted soil, consider aerating it to improve air and water penetration. This process helps roots expand and access the nutrients they need.
• Mowing Practices: Adjust your mowing habits to avoid stressing the recovering grass. Set your mower blade higher to leave grass longer, which provides shade to the soil and reduces evaporation.
• Pest and Weed Management: Keep an eye out for pests and weeds that can further stress your lawn. Use organic or targeted treatments to manage these issues without harming the recovering grass.

Step-by-Step Guide: Bringing Your Lawn Back to Life

1. Assessment: Evaluate the extent of drought damage and identify the most affected areas.
2. Hydration: Start with deep watering sessions to hydrate the soil thoroughly.
3. Soil Improvement: Apply a thin layer of compost to enhance soil structure and moisture retention.
4. Overseeding: Spread grass seed over bare patches and keep the area moist until new growth appears.
5. Ongoing Care: Follow a consistent watering schedule, mow properly, and fertilize periodically to support continued growth and health.

By following these steps and incorporating regular maintenance practices, you can revive your dry lawn and transform it into a resilient, green haven. With dedication and care, your lawn will thrive even in the challenging summer months, providing you with a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy. Happy gardening!

 

 

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