As warmer temperatures and brighter skies are set to return across the UK next month, many are preparing their gardens for another stretch of summer heat. From mowing the lawn to reviving flower beds, it’s the perfect time to spruce up outdoor spaces. While you might be putting in the effort, one common gardening mistake could be encouraging moss to take over your lawn and it all comes down to one thing.
According to gardening experts, watering your lawn in the evening may seem harmless, but it actually creates the ideal damp conditions for moss to thrive. As the temperature drops overnight, moisture lingers on the grass and soil, giving moss a chance to settle in and spread.
Although it might feel like the cooler part of the day is ideal, it often leaves lawns damp overnight, creating the ideal conditions for moss to grow and take hold.
Instead, it’s best to water your lawn early in the morning. This allows the grass to absorb moisture during the day, with sunlight helping to dry off excess water.
Not only does watering early in the day help discourage moss, it also promotes stronger, healthier grass growth during the warmer summer months.
Gardening expert Chris McIlroy from The Grass People said: “Moss loves moisture, so water your lawn with care and avoid flooding the lawn.
“Avoid watering your lawn at night as it is cooler, and the moisture may sit on the soil. If your lawn is naturally moist, you should regularly aerate it.”
Watering in the evening will leave the grass wet overnight, further increasing the risk of fungal diseases.
If morning watering isn’t possible, the next best window is between 3pm and 6pm. This gives the grass enough time to absorb the moisture and allows excess water to evaporate before nightfall.
To check if your lawn needs watering, experts at Lawn & Weed Expert suggest performing a simple screwdriver test. All you need to do is push a screwdriver about 6 inches into the soil and if it goes in easily, it means there’s enough moisture.
If it’s difficult to push through, that means your lawn likely needs a drink.
Yellowing or browning grass also often indicates dehydration or salt build-up in the soil, both of which can be eased with proper watering.