Even though the end of summer is quickly closing in, August isn't too late to get your lawn in prime condition for the remaining outdoor activities. After all, the days are still warm and the grills are still firing. August is actually a great time to revive your lawn and give it the replenishment it needs after a long season of picnics, pool parties and record-breaking dry weather. These five tips will help to make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood and boost the health of your yard for seasons to come.
1. Know Your Area: Depending on where you live, certain types of grass will thrive better than others. Be sure to make a trip to your local garden center for the best advice on which type of grass seed will work best for your lawn. Next, consider the primary use of your lawn. Will children and pets be a regular fixture in the yard? Or will your lawn simply serve as a supporting element in a beautiful landscape? These are important factors to consider when choosing a grass seed.
2. Don't Over-Feed: Surprisingly, many homeowners over-water their lawns, which is detrimental to the health of your grass. In order to determine if your lawn needs a drink, push a screwdriver into the dirt. If your lawn has plenty of water, the driver will enter the dirt easily. If it's difficult to push the driver into the dirt, it's time to break out the sprinkler system. To give your lawn the best chance at a lush, green appearance, fertilization is key. Fertilizing four times a year is the best rule of thumb and once a year is the minimum.
3. Height Matters: According to Grass Seed USA, a national coalition of grass seed farmers and turf specialists, it's best to keep grass height at approximately two inches. In order to minimize damage to your lawn, cut only one-third of the grass height at a time (when grass is about three inches in height).
4. Be Equipment Savvy: Most people are quick to bag up the grass clippings when mowing their lawn, but it's a good idea to leave some of those clippings. The cut grass will decompose in your lawn, adding to the overall health of the yard. To keep clippings less obvious, mow often and be sure to follow the height rule. Take your lawn to the next level of curb appeal by investing in an edger, which will create clean lines around garden beds and define your grounds.
5. Fill in the Holes: If your lawn has bald spots, it's time to add some seed. While seeding can be done during any season, it's best to do it in the spring and fall when temperatures are most stable, as drastic temperature changes make it hard for seeds to grow. Be sure to water regularly (using the screwdriver test), and you'll give seeds the chance to absorb moisture, build roots and make your lawn the best it's ever been.
