We’re at the mid-season point when many homeowners relax and sort of forget about their lawns, other than mowing them. You’ve spent countless hours this past spring fertilizing, watering, and weeding. All of this can be undone by the heat in mid-summer if you’re not paying attention.
Our lawn experts put together a list of signs to look for before your lawn is irreparably damaged by the Texas heat. You want to pay special attention to the sunny areas of your lawn because these are the first to show any signs of distress.
Weeds
Do you suddenly have weeds popping up? Keep in mind that although weeds and grass are two different plants, weeds tend to thrive in the heat while grass tends to struggle. If you see more weeds popping up, that means you lawn has been exposed to major heat, and you should keep a close eye on your lawn. Make sure you are watering regularly.
Color Change
Among the first signs of drought stress is a slight change in the color of your turf. It will go from deep green to bluish gray. It’s a subtle change, so you need to know what you’re looking for. Not enough water, and too much heat won’t allow your grass blades to produce enough chlorophyll, which is what makes our lawns that rich green we all seek.
Curling
Has your grass started curling or wilting? Keep in mind that each blade of grass is its own individual plant trying to survive within its environment. When conditions get challenging – like the summer heat – the blades will show it by curling or wilting. Take a close look at your grass by getting down at eye level. If you see curling or wilting blades, your grass is drought stressed.
Footprints
When you walk on your lawn, do your footprints stay visible? A subtle sign, but one you should take note of because when grass begins to dry out, it becomes less elastic or resilient and takes longer to recover from stress. When it is pressed down by foot traffic, it doesn’t bounce back as quickly. If footprints tend to linger longer than normal, your grass could use some water.
Bare or Brown Spots
While they are more obvious, brown or bare spots are not a good sign. When you see brown spots or bare spots, your lawn is extremely stressed, and some damage has already been done. Begin watering regularly.
Water Regularly
Every week – especially during the middle months of July and August – your lawn needs at least one to two inches of water. This is especially critical when heat and sun rob the soil of daily moisture. Rather than watering a little every day, try deep watering more infrequently. To help reduce water loss from evaporation, always water in the early morning.
If your DIY lawn care plan isn’t working for you, you’re not alone. We hear from many homeowners who just need a little help this time of year. Don’t give up on your lawn. You’ll just create more work for yourself next spring. Instead, take advantage of our Love Your Lawn Services that will help your lawn look better this year and give it a head start on looking great come spring.
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