During the summer months, temperatures can skyrocket to unprecedented levels, leaving your lawn vulnerable to extreme heat stress. Not only does extreme heat stress your lawn, but it can also accelerate the rate at which the soil loses water, causing it to dry out.

As a result, maintaining a lush, green yard becomes a bit more challenging. However, the right lawn care services and strategies can help protect your lawn from the damaging effects of extreme heat, preserving its vibrancy and health.

Understanding Heat Stress

Heat stress refers to the adverse effects that extreme heat and inadequate moisture can have on your lawn.

• Heat Stress: During periods of high heat, the ground can become so hot that it affects the root system of your grass, causing it to wilt, brown, or even die. Without adequate water, the grass roots dry out and the lawn loses its lush green appearance, taking on a more brittle and dull aspect.

While all grass types can suffer from heat stress, certain varieties like cool-season grasses are more vulnerable. They thrive in cooler temperatures and may struggle when the heat index rises significantly.

Watering Strategies

One of the most effective ways to maintain your lawn during extreme heat is to water it appropriately.

• Watering Techniques: Deep and infrequent watering is more beneficial than shallow and frequent watering. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, making them more resilient to drought and extreme heat.
• Watering Schedule: The best time to water your lawn is early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Watering during the heat of the day can result in evaporation, meaning your lawn doesn't receive the maximum benefit from the water. At night, water can cling to the grass blades, creating the perfect conditions for disease and fungus to thrive.

Lawn Care Services

During periods of extreme heat, professional lawn care services can be a godsend. With their knowledge, skills, and specialized equipment, they can help maintain your lawn in ways you might not have the time or expertise for.

• Aeration: A lawn care service can provide aeration, which involves puncturing the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. This helps the roots grow deeply, creating a stronger, more vigorous lawn.
• Fertilizing: They can also apply the right fertilizers at the correct times and in the correct amounts to boost your lawn's health and resilience. During the summer, slow-release fertilizers are often recommended as they provide a steady supply of nutrients over a longer period.

Professional lawn care services can also monitor and treat any diseases or pests that might take advantage of the lawn's weakened state during the heatwave. They can apply the appropriate treatments and provide advice on preventing future infestations.