Ultimate Guide to Summer Lawn Care in Houston, Texas

Summer in Houston, Texas, means sizzling temperatures, high humidity, and long sunny days. While you might be ready for backyard BBQs and poolside lounging, your lawn requires a different kind of preparation to stay green and healthy. But fear not! With the right tips and tricks up your sleeve, you can ensure your yard becomes the envy of the neighborhood. Grab your sun hat and some iced tea as we walk through essential summertime lawn care tips.

Understanding Houston’s Climate

Houston’s unique subtropical climate presents both challenges and opportunities for summer lawn care. The heat and humidity can stress grass but also provide an opportunity for growth—if you know what you’re doing.

The Essentials of Summer Lawn Care

Here are some key practices to keep your Houston lawn looking its best all summer long:

1. Mowing Like a Pro

Keep it Tall: For most grass types, cutting your grass to about 3-4 inches in height is ideal during summer. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and helping the grass retain moisture.
Sharp Blades Matter: A clean cut reduces stress on your grass. Sharpen your mower blades regularly to avoid tearing the grass, which can cause brown tips and make your lawn more susceptible to disease.

2. Water Wisely

Morning Hydration: Watering your lawn in the early morning (before 10 AM) reduces evaporation losses and allows your grass to absorb water efficiently.
Deep and Infrequent: Aim for deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth. Typically, 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall, is sufficient.

3. Feeding Your Lawn

Summer Fertilizing: Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide a steady supply of nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to rapid growth that stresses your grass.
Watch the Nitrogen: Too much nitrogen can burn your lawn in the summer heat. Look for fertilizers with a balanced mix of nutrients.

4. Weed and Pest Control

Stay Vigilant: Weeds and pests can become more active in the summer. Treat weeds early before they spread and use appropriate insecticides if you notice any pest activity.
Natural Alternatives: Consider organic options like neem oil or diatomaceous earth to combat pests without harsh chemicals.

5. Aeration and Dethatching

Breathe Easy: Aerate your lawn to improve soil compaction and enhance root growth. Late spring or early summer is an excellent time for aeration.
Mind the Thatch: Thatch is that layer of dead grass and roots that can prevent water from reaching the soil. Remove excessive thatch to ensure your lawn can breathe.

6. Dealing with Drought

Mulch It Up: Mulching around trees and garden beds helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool.
Drought-Resistant Grass: Consider overseeding with drought-resistant grass varieties like Bermuda or Zoysia to create a more resilient lawn.

Expert Tips for Houston Lawns

Local Knowledge: Always consider local advice and connect with a Houston-based lawn care expert who understands the specific challenges of the region.
Monitor Soil Health: Regularly test your soil to ensure it has the right pH and nutrient levels. Adjust your lawn care practices accordingly.

Maintaining a lush, green lawn during Houston’s hot summers can be a bit of a science mixed with a dash of art. By following these summer lawn care tips, you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful yard all season long.

Interested in a low maintenance landscape that doesn’t require much maintenance–even in Houston’s hottest months? Contact FiveSTAR Landscape today for your FREE landscape design consultation. Your outdoor space should be your favorite place!

Happy gardening! 🌿👩‍🌾