Summer Lawn Guide

When it comes to lawn care, summer is one of the busiest times of the year. Warm-season grasses are growing at a very fast pace, and there’s always something to do to maintain the lawn. To have a top-notch turf, it’s important to stay on top of your lawn care tasks, especially during these hot months.

Here are a few turf chores to do from June 22 – September 21:

• Continue mowing and properly fertilize your lawn. Summer grasses are at their peak during these months, so it’s important to be consistent in caring for your lawn.
• Sometimes we go days without seeing rain in the summer. Lawns need about one to one inch and a half of water each week. Be prepared to have a sprinkler system ready to use, as needed.
• If you still have summer weeds, continue with a postemergence herbicide to eliminate those pesky weeds!
• In late summer, start looking at preemergence herbicides to control winter weeds. Winter weeds begin their cycles during this time, so it’s a good idea to be on top of it by applying preemergence herbicides before they pop up.

For more thorough, research-based information on how to care for your lawn, Extension Publication 1322, “Establish and Manage Your Home Lawn,” is a great guide. If any questions pop up as you are working in your lawn, you can reach out to your local Extension office for help!

As you’re outside working in your lawn this summer, it’s important to stay hydrated and know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses. The heat isn’t just uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous. Learn how to recognize heat-related illnesses to keep you safe as you’re out in the Mississippi heat.