After so much rain between the end of May and beginning of June, it is definitely time to care for our lawns now that the soil is drying up. Each season of the year requires different methods. Let’s explore summer lawn tips for Texas in key areas: mowing, fertilizing, and watering.

Mowing

Even though some people believe the shorter we cut the grass, the less we have to mow, this is not the best philosophy to employ in our summer yards. In fact in early summer, keeping the blades of grass tall provides the best protection for your lawn. It does two things. First, tall blades of grass develop better root systems. The second reason might not be one that you have considered. According to Scott’s Lawn, “Tall grass also helps to shade soil and cool it, which means you’ll need to water less.” Therefore, keeping the blades of grass tall is a win-win for homeowners.

Another win for homeowners involves the clippings. Experts recommend letting the mowed clippings lie. They actually feed your lawn as they break down.

Fertilizing

Feeding your lawn in the early summer is an optimal time. Texas A&M’s Agrilife Extension recommends that a soil test to determine the pH of your lawn and the proper amounts of phosphorus and potassium it needs. You also want the fertilizer to slow release its nutrients throughout the summer as well as withstand the Texas summer heat.

Watering

You might not need to water right now, but at some point in the summer you will. Lawn care experts advise watering deeply, but infrequently before sunrise. This method promotes deep roots to develop and also conserves water. The timing enables the water to soak in the soil before the heat of the sun evaporates most of it. To know if your soil has the proper moisture level, This Old House offers a great tip that only involves a screwdriver. They recommend to “push a screwdriver into your soil. If you meet a lot of resistance, you need to water more. If it slides in too easily, you need to water less.” A simple test that will help you maintain moisture at least 4-6 inches deep, which is optimal for your grass.

As the temperatures start to heat up, homeowners need to follow these summer lawn tips in mowing, fertilizing, and watering. Doing these three steps properly will ensure the healthiest lawn possible. A healthy lawn automatically increases a home’s curb appeal. Therefore, utlizing these methods is an important part of homeownership.