Your lawn needs about an inch of water per week. Watering two or three times a week for 30 to 45 minutes in the early morning soaks deep into the soil and encourages roots to grow downward.
Save Your Lawn From the Summer's Heat: Tips That Actually Work
If your lawn looks more like a patchy brown carpet than a lush green oasis this summer, you're not alone. There are several things you can do to save it, and even bring it back to life.
Water Deeply, Not Daily
Mow High, Not Low
Resist cutting grass too short in the heat. Taller grass shades the soil and helps prevent moisture loss; only trim about a third of the blade height at a time.
Skip Fertilizer During a Heatwave
Feeding stressed grass during extreme heat can actually burn it. If the lawn is dormant but not dead, let it rest until temperatures cool in early fall.
Aerate Compacted Soil
In high-traffic areas, compacted soil keeps water and nutrients from reaching the roots. Renting a core aerator for a weekend lets water penetrate deeper and gives roots room to grow.
Mulch Instead of Bagging Clippings
Clippings left on the lawn act like a natural fertilizer and help retain moisture, and you save time not emptying the mower bag.
Add Shade and Limit Foot Traffic
Temporary shade with garden fabric helps newly planted or delicate areas, and avoiding heavy foot traffic during peak heat prevents extra stress on vulnerable grass.
With a little patience, a heat-stressed lawn can bounce back beautifully.
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →