Hot and sunny weather is welcomed by many people in our uncertain summer climate but it can also provide a challenge to maintaining a healthy green sward.

With temperatures getting close to 30 degrees centigrade recently, the thoughts of homeowners are turning to how to keep lawns green and stop them turning beige.

Managing Soil Moisture

At Grass Science Seeds, we are here to help so read on for our top tips on soil moisture management in the soaring heat.

1. Monitor Soil Moisture

Carry out regular checks on moisture levels in your lawn by examining the soil or using a soil moisture meter. The aim is for a moderately moist soil that is not waterlogged or bone-dry.

2. Water deeply and infrequently

When watering, give a soaking rather than light sprinkling as this will encourage the grass roots to grow deeper and give you a more resilient lawn and prevent shallow root growth and excessive evaporation.

3. Morning Watering

Water your lawn early in the morning to minimise water loss from evaporation and to allow the grass blades to dry during the day, reducing the risk of disease.

4. Watch the Forecast

Keep an eye on the weather forecast and change your watering schedule to ensure you supplement any small amount of rainfall occurring during a longer spell of dry weather.

5. Use Proper Irrigation Techniques

If using an irrigation system, make sure it is set up correctly. Ensure the sprinklers cover the entire lawn evenly and avoid overwatering or creating puddles.

6. Improve the Soil Structure

Soil with good structure retains moisture more effectively so consider incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into your soil to improve its water-holding capacity.

7. Mulch the Lawn

Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as grass clippings or shredded leaves, to your lawn helps reduce moisture loss through evaporation and helps maintain a more consistent soil moisture level.

And finally…

8. The Right Grass Species and Cultivars

Choose grass species and cultivars that are well-suited for your climate and soil conditions. Some varieties are more drought-tolerant than others, so selecting the right grass can help maintain a healthy lawn even during dry periods.

Always remember that it is important to strike a balance with watering as overwatering can lead to shallow root growth, a susceptibility to diseases, and, of course,  a waste of precious water resources.

On the other hand, underwatering can stress the grass and result in a weakened lawn so make sure you keep an eye on conditions and make adjustments when necessary to maintain optimal soil moisture levels for your garden lawn.

At Grass Science Seeds, we can offer you advice and support in the maintenance of your green spaces and we also supply grass seeds for a wide range of growing conditions. 

Contact Us

If you want to know more, then just get in touch.