Lawn regeneration after hot weather - How to save a dry lawn? [Handbook]

Summer heat can turn a luscious green carpet into a shriveled yellow threshing floor. Intense sun and lack of water instantly weaken the turf, leading to its destruction. If your lawn looks tired and sunburned - don't wait until autumn. Check, how to effectively regenerate your lawn after hot weather, to regain its healthy appearance and density later this season.

Why the lawn turns yellow and dries out in summer? Main causes

Lawn deterioration after heat wave is a common problem. Before you act, it's worth knowing the source of the problem. The most common causes are:

• Improper irrigation: Watering too infrequently or sparsely (or watering in full sun, which leads to burning).

• Undercutting: Scalping the lawn weakens it and puts the soil at risk of drying out faster.

• Fertilization mistakes: Missing key nutrients or applying fertilizer at the wrong time.

• Compacted, impermeable soil: Hard crust on the surface makes it difficult for water and oxygen to reach the roots.

• Lack of aeration: The root system needs oxygen for proper development.

Summer heat lowers the grass' resistance to fungal diseases and pest attack, and the problem is especially pronounced on sandy and poor soils.

How to save your lawn after summer? Complete step-by-step guide

To restore your lawn to its former glory, act comprehensively. The following steps will help you nourish even a severely dry lawn.

Step 1: Intensive and wise hydration

This is an absolute must. Start with regular and abundant watering. Do it early in the morning or late in the evening, to minimize evaporation. The goal is to moisten the soil to a depth of 10-15 cm. Remember the rule: it is better to water less often but more abundantly, than often and superficially.

Step 2: Aeration - key soil aeration

If the soil is hard and compacted, the roots of the grass "suffocate". Aeration, or deep puncturing of the turf (for 5-10 cm), loosens soil structure. This gives the roots better access to oxygen, water and nutrients. In a small garden, spiked shoe covers will suffice, for larger areas it is worth renting a power aerator.

Step 3: Scarifying - if and when to do it after summer?

Scarification is the vertical incision of turf to remove moss and so-called "felt" (a compacted layer of dead stalks). But beware! Don't perform aggressive scarifying on a lawn that is extremely dry and weakened.

However, if your lawn has recovered slightly after a few days of heavy watering, and the layer of felt is thick, you can carry out a very gentle scarifying. The best time is late August and early September, when the heat has passed and the soil is moist.

Step 4: Grass seeding - filling in empty spaces

In places where bald patches have formed, reseeding will be necessary. Choose a special regeneration blend, which contains fast-germinating grass species (such as perennial ryegrass). After sowing the seeds, gently cover them with a thin layer of soil and sprinkle regularly, keeping the substrate constantly moist.

Step 5: Fertilization - a nutritional boost for the turf

Weakened grass needs support. Apply fertilizer with increased content of phosphorus and potassium, which will strengthen the root system and prepare the lawn for the coming autumn. Avoid fertilizers with a high dose of nitrogen if temperatures are still high. An ideal solution after hot weather is a slow-release fertilizer.

Step 6: Mowing - how to mow weakened grass?

Raise the mower blades higher than usual. Set the mowing height to 6-7 cm. Longer stalks better protect the soil from the sun and help retain moisture. Remember the rule not to cut more than 1/3 of the height of the grass at a time.

Necessary equipment for lawn regeneration - what to prepare?

Professional lawn restoration requires the right tools. You don't have to buy everything right away. For the most important treatments will be useful:

• Scarifier (manual, electric or diesel),

• Aerator (manual or mechanical),

• A good sprinkler or garden hose,

• Seeder for precise seeding of grass and fertilizer.

If you do not want to invest in expensive machines, it is worth using garden equipment rental. In places like EWIMAX.en you will find professional equipment and get expert advice.

Summary

Even a badly damaged lawn after hot weather can be saved. The key to success is quick response and comprehensive action. Regular watering, soil aeration, proper fertilization and possible reseeding will make your grass healthy and beautiful again, becoming the pride of your garden.