Summer’s arrival brings a whole host of maintenance musts for homeowners. Chief among these tasks is lawn care, which encompasses a wide range of projects, big and small, that ensure your home stays in excellent condition. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered.
Whether summer is just around the corner or it’s already arrived, use these handy tips to prepare your lawn and landscape for warmer weather.
Check Your Sprinkler System
Take the time to check your sprinkler system. It only takes a few minutes, and doing so could quite literally save your grass — and save you from spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on sod to patch up your dead lawn.
The best way to tackle this task is by manually running your sprinkler system. Check each of the sprinkler heads and make sure they’re operating correctly. Here are a few things to watch for:
- Water Pressure: Is water coming out with enough pressure to reach the parts of the lawn it’s supposed to cover?
- Malfunctions: Sprinkler heads are resilient but can take a beating in the elements. A malfunctioning sprinkler head may not rise properly or shoot water in the wrong direction.
- Connectivity Issues: Some more innovative sprinkler systems operate using Wi-Fi. Even if yours is a bit more basic, you could still experience connectivity issues if the control panel isn’t plugged in correctly or isn’t communicating with the sprinklers.
Determine Lawn Watering Frequency
A properly watered lawn is a happy lawn. As temps rise during the summer months, you may find that your grass is thirstier than in the spring or fall.
It’s especially important to run your sprinkler system when your grass needs it. Some lawncare crews recommend watering as often as three to four times per week during the summer.
Another important consideration is when you water your lawn. Experts suggest that the best time to run your sprinkler is early in the morning, between 6 and 10 a.m. Water is less likely to evaporate when temperatures are cooler, meaning your grass gets the drink it needs.
Programmable, smart sprinkler systems can help you maintain your watering frequency without hassle. A few commercial options include Rachio, Rainpoint, and Rain Bird.
Try a DIY solution with the following options:
- Misting Watering System
- Sprinkler Soaker Hose
- Eden Above Ground Irrigation Garden Sprinkler System
- Gardena ZoomMaxx Adjustable Sprinkler
Look into Adding Heat-Tolerant Plants
Living through hotter temperatures doesn’t mean your lawn has to look lackluster. Spruce up your landscaping with these heat-resistant and heat-tolerant plants that add color and character:
- Succulents and cacti
- Texas sage
- Esperanza
- Mexican feather grass
- Columbine flowers
- Firebrush
- Shrimp plant
- Rosemary
- Lantana
Consider adding some taller plants or bushes that provide shade to your home. These natural sun blockers can relieve the steamy summer heat, mainly when placed near windows and other places where heat can enter the home.
Find Mosquito Solutions
Living in most parts of the United States means living with mosquitoes. They’re drawn to water and thrive in high humidity conditions, so having a protection plan for your home is essential.
Mosquitoes can damage your plants and water features, so the CDC recommends removing standing water in and outside your home once a week to prevent them from laying eggs. This can include flowerpot saucers, dog bowls, and similar items.
Natural mosquito repellents available for purchase may help keep the bugs at bay, including cinnamon oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, and more. And if you have children, there are kid-safe lotions and sprays that you can use to protect their delicate skin.
Consider Regular Pest Control Sprays
Mosquitoes aren’t the other bugs that bother your lawn.
Many homeowners hire pest control professionals to spray repellent in and around their homes. Lawn care professionals can also spray your grass with a protective solution that keeps harmful critters like chinch bugs and Japanese beetles away.
These solutions can keep your home relatively pest-free and your lawn safe from long-term damage.
