Scorching temperatures can wreak havoc on your garden, leaving your lawn looking parched and neglected. But fear not, the green-fingered gurus at The Grass People have shared their wisdom on how to revive your grass to its former glory.
They advised: “It’s not easy to keep your lawn in top shape during summer as higher temperatures and less rainfall take their toll. It’s normal for grass to become wilted, patchy and brown during a heatwave as it goes into its dormant state, but all is not lost. The first step recommended would be to rake the surface and remove any dead grass.”
To help your lawn breathe and recover, aerating the soil is crucial; this can be achieved by puncturing the turf with a pitchfork to create air holes.
Following aeration, it’s time to overseed the lawn, scattering a generous amount of suitable seed across the area. And when the heat finally subsides, that’s your cue to fertilise, according to the experts.
They added: “Summer months often see spells of high temperatures and reduced rainfall, which can have a negative impact on lawns.”
The unsightly browning and wilting are actually part of the lawn’s survival strategy, entering a dormant phase to cope with the lack of water.
Nonetheless, you can lend a hand by ensuring the roots are well-watered. For optimal results, water your lawn in the early morning to avoid the midday heat or in the evening after the sun has set.
Alternatively, invest in an oscillating timed sprinkler to ensure your lawn remains hydrated throughout the day.
Four steps to revive your lawn
- Rake the surface and remove any dead grass
- Aerate the soil by using a pitchfork to create holes in the ground
- Apply seeds across the grass
- Fertilising in cool weather