Temperatures have quickly rocketed in the UK, with warm weather expected for the majority of the week.
This means gardeners should take extra care of their lawns, including avoiding one big mistake which could result in “a brown lawn”.
Cheryl Harper, managing director of Greensleeves Lawn Care, said: “One of the most common things that impact lawns during the high summer months is increased footfall.
“With families enjoying their garden space, BBQs with friends and leisurely afternoons of sunbathing, the lawn gets much more use than the rest of the year and the soil can start to get compacted.
“Combine that with the blazing sun and very little moisture and your lawn can start to look more than just a little worse for wear very quickly.”
Rather than enforcing a “do not step on the grass” policy over the summer months, there are some simple steps to help reduce the risk of a brown and patchy lawn.
While many may think their lawn has died if it turns brown, this is common during the summer months.
It can look unsightly but this is simply down to the fact that it isn’t receiving enough hydration.
The lawn expert explained: “Without sufficient water, your lawn can turn yellow and straw-like, taking months to recover.
“To maintain a green lawn during these hot spells, deep watering a couple of times a week is often more effective than daily light sprinkling.
“Be strategic about when and how you water your lawn, especially when it is hot.”
Early morning is the best time to water according to Cheryl, as it allows the grass to absorb the necessary moisture before the day’s heat causes rapid evaporation.
It is advised to “avoid” watering in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak, as the water will evaporate quickly and won’t reach the grassroots.
The expert added: “Similarly, watering in the evening can increase the risk of diseases like red thread by leaving the grass damp overnight.”
Fertilising the lawn during warm weather is also a mistake as it can make your lawn prone to “fertiliser burn”.
To avoid this, wait until the heatwave has passed, or even better, wait for a rainy day and apply fertiliser after the lawn has dried.
Make sure to also let the lawn breathe during the warm weather and make sure to crack down on weeds so they do not steal precious nutrients.
