We have been getting a lot of questions from you and we want to make sure you have the right information! We have prepared this Frequently Asked Questions guide to Lawn Health Care in Dry Conditions to help you make the right decisions regarding your lawn this summer. We hope you find this helpful, and we encourage you to give us a call or shoot us an email if you need any additional information.
Should I stop my Lawn Health Care applications since the weather has been so hot and dry?
At Quality Care, we believe strongly in continuing your Lawn Health Care program through the entire growing season. (For more information check out this article by Dr. Nick Christians of Iowa State University) We use slow release dual coated fertilizers that are water-activated, and choose nutrient mixes appropriate to the time of year. In dry conditions, we also adjust the quantity of fertilizer being applied. Even though your lawn may be dormant now, the fertilizer we apply will help your grass plants to rebound and reestablish into a healthy turf when weather conditions improve.
Will weed control products used in hot, dry weather harm my lawn?
No. Keeping weed pressure controlled in a lawn suffering from drought stress will help your turf recover when weather conditions improve. Our licensed technicians are trained to spot-spray in these weather conditions, and to identify areas of concern and communicate those concerns to you.
When should I begin to water my lawn?
We recommend lawns get 1″ of water per week. This is best applied in two separate sessions (1/2″ each session) between 4 and 9 a.m. to avoid losing water to evaporation. An easy way to approximate the amount of water you’re giving your lawn is to place an inexpensive rain gauge within the area you’re sprinkling, and stop when you’ve reached one half inch. Be sure all areas, including your landscape plantings, are included in the watering.Simulating the same conditions for your landscape plantings, especially young trees and shrubs, as you do for your lawn, will be very beneficial.
Does mowing height matter?
Mowing height is surprisingly important to turf health. The ideal height of grass depends on weather and time of year. In general, grass should be cut shorter in spring and fall than in summer. Quick-growing grass can stand a shorter cut in the milder seasons, but hot summer weather can stress short grass plants. When mowing, always check your lawn to make sure you’ve chosen a good mowing height. Aim for 3.5″ – 4″. A thick lawn is the best defense against weeds and any other fungal issues!