How to Care for Your Lawn During a Heatwave

When temperatures rise and rainfall becomes scarce, your lawn can quickly begin to show signs of stress. Brown patches, dry soil, and slow growth are all common during periods of extreme heat. The good news is that with the right care and maintenance, you can help your lawn survive the hottest days of summer and recover quickly once cooler weather returns.

Water Wisely

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make during a heatwave is watering little and often. Shallow watering encourages weak root growth, leaving your lawn more vulnerable to drought.

Instead, water deeply and less frequently. Aim to water early in the morning, ideally before 9am, when temperatures are cooler and less moisture is lost through evaporation. This allows water to soak into the soil and reach the roots where it's needed most.

Raise Your Mowing Height

It may seem counterintuitive, but cutting your grass shorter during hot weather can actually do more harm than good. Longer grass blades provide shade for the soil, helping to retain moisture and protect roots from the sun.

During a heatwave, raise your mower's cutting height and avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in your lawn's ability to withstand dry conditions.

Avoid Mowing During the Hottest Part of the Day

Mowing puts stress on grass, and doing so during peak temperatures can cause additional damage. If mowing is necessary, try to do it in the early morning or late evening when conditions are cooler.

Make sure your mower blades are sharp, as clean cuts help grass recover more quickly and reduce moisture loss.

Leave Grass Clippings on the Lawn

Grass clippings can act as a natural mulch, helping the soil retain moisture and providing valuable nutrients as they break down.

If conditions are dry and the clippings are not excessive, consider leaving them on the lawn after mowing. This can help reduce water loss and improve the overall health of your turf.

Reduce Foot Traffic

During periods of drought and extreme heat, grass becomes more fragile and susceptible to damage. Try to minimise heavy foot traffic, children's play areas, and garden equipment use on stressed sections of lawn.

Giving your grass a chance to rest can prevent lasting damage and improve its recovery once temperatures fall.

Keep Your Equipment in Top Condition

Reliable garden machinery is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn during summer. Ensure your mower is serviced regularly, blades are sharpened, and air filters are clean. Well-maintained equipment performs more efficiently and helps achieve the best results without placing unnecessary stress on your grass.

If you're unsure whether your machinery is summer-ready, a professional service can help keep everything running smoothly throughout the season.

Don't Panic Over Brown Patches

Many lawns naturally enter a period of dormancy during extreme heat and drought. While brown grass may not look attractive, it doesn't necessarily mean your lawn is dead.

In many cases, healthy lawns will recover once cooler temperatures and rainfall return. Continue basic maintenance and avoid overwatering in an attempt to force growth.

Plan Ahead for Future Heatwaves

With hotter summers becoming increasingly common, it's worth considering long-term lawn care strategies. Improving soil health, aerating compacted areas, and overseeding with drought-tolerant grass varieties can all help your lawn cope better with future periods of extreme weather.

Need Help Keeping Your Lawn Healthy This Summer?

At TM Mowers, we stock a wide range of quality lawn mowers, strimmers, garden machinery, parts, and accessories to help you maintain a healthy lawn all summer long. Whether you're looking for new equipment, servicing, or expert advice, our team is here to help.