Summer Lawn Care in Ottawa

​Summer is the time of year when lawns in Ottawa are exposed to long hours of sunlight and high temperatures, making them more vulnerable to environmental stress. Proper maintenance is crucial to keep your lawn looking healthy and green throughout the summer months. Here are some tips to help you maintain your lawn in Ottawa during the summer season:

Watering: Regular watering is essential for keeping your lawn hydrated during the summer. The recommended frequency of watering is once a week, but you should adjust the schedule based on the weather conditions. Overwatering can lead to the development of fungal diseases, while under-watering can cause the grass to turn brown and die.

Mowing: During the summer, it's important to mow your lawn frequently to keep the grass at a reasonable height. This helps reduce the stress on the grass and encourages healthy growth. A recommended mowing height is about 3 inches, but you should adjust the height based on the type of grass you have.  Keeping your lawn mowed at a height of about 3 inches can help to retain moisture. Shorter grass is more susceptible to drying out, as it exposes more of the soil to the sun and wind. By keeping the grass at a taller height, the blades of grass can help to shade the soil and slow down the evaporation of moisture.

In addition, longer grass blades also have deeper roots, which are better able to access water and nutrients in the soil. This can help to improve the overall health of your lawn and make it more resilient to environmental stress, such as drought.

It's important to remember that different types of grass have different recommended mowing heights, so it's best to consult with a local horticulturist or landscaper to determine the best mowing height for your lawn.

Fertilization: You should avoid applying fertilizer during the summer when the grass is more susceptible to drought stress. The best time to fertilize your lawn is in the spring and fall, when the grass is actively growing.

Weed control: Weeds can quickly take over your lawn during the summer, so it's important to keep them under control. The best way to do this is to remove them by hand or use a weed killer that is safe for your lawn.

Aeration: Aeration is the process of removing small cores of soil from the lawn to help improve the health of the grass roots. This process is especially important in heavy clay soils, which can become compacted and make it difficult for the roots to access water and nutrients. Aeration can be done using a manual aerator or a powered aerator.

By following these tips, you can help keep your lawn healthy and green during the summer months in Ottawa. Regular maintenance and attention to the needs of your lawn will pay off in the long run with a lush, beautiful lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood.