Summer Lawn Care Tips for Michigan Residents

Michigan summers can bring hot, dry weather that poses a challenge to maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. Proper summer lawn care is essential if you want your turf to stay green and vibrant throughout the season. Here are some key tips to help your lawn thrive:

1.     Water Wisely: During periods of heat and drought, your lawn needs regular watering—but not all at once! Light, frequent watering helps the turf absorb moisture without becoming oversaturated. Aim for a total of 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases.

2.     Mow High: Keep your mower blade set higher in summer. Longer grass shades the soil, reducing moisture loss and helping roots grow deeper. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the blade at a time to minimize stress.

3.     Grub Control: Cultural practices can help to reduce the impact of grubs, which tend to lay their eggs in late June. Lawns watered through the summer can survive grub infestations better than unwatered turf. Also, simply raising the mowing height to 3.5 inches encourages a larger root mass that is less affected by grub activity.

4.     Fertilize Carefully: If you choose to fertilize, use a slow-release formula and avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn your lawn in hot weather. Fertilizing in early summer is best.

5.     Watch for Weeds and Pests: Keep an eye out for weeds and pests, which are more active in summer. Remove weeds promptly and consider professional pest control options if needed.

With these tips, your Michigan lawn can stay healthy, green, and ready for all your summer activities. Remember, consistent care makes all the difference when the weather gets tough!

Enjoy fresh summer lawn all season long!