Summer is in full force where I live. Extended periods of heat and humidity, bright sunshine, warm nights, with no rain in sight. Warm season grasses may love these conditions, but here in New England, cool season grasses become stressed, wilted, and prone to disease. The heat and lack of rain call for watering, but the excessive moisture can create disease conditions.
During the summer, grass utilizes the energy stored in its root system, sustaining the plant but shrinking the root system, making the turf vulnerable.
It's times like these when spring preparations will pay off. An extensive root zone, higher cut, and proper fertility will better allow the plant to survive the dog days of summer.
Tips for Dealing with Summer Stress
- Raise mowing height, reduce mowing frequency, and keep traffic off the lawn.
- Water in the early morning, deep and infrequently, but be on the look out for wilt and dormancy.
- Do not fertilize or apply herbicides during stress periods.
- Do not perform cultural practices like de-thatching or aerating as they will further stress the plant.
- Enter the summer with a strong spring regimen promoting root growth and a healthy plant.
Comments
Excellent advice Kelly!
With the scorching summer heat we’re having homeowners have to much more careful how they manage their lawns.