How to Care for Grass During an Ohio Heatwave

Ohio is known for moderate weather that is prone to fluctuation. In a four-season climate, the summer can get very hot, and because of this, plants can suffer and die in the heat.  

This includes your lawn. Improper lawn care can lead to your grass dying in mass if you do not take proper measures during summer heatwaves.  

Creating a schedule from day to day is one of the best things that you can do to ensure proper lawn care. July and August are months of rapid growth, so be sure to prepare for extra yard work in those months.  

When a heatwave comes, don't get caught off guard. Now is the time to make a concrete plan.  

This post will give you some strategies for caring for your grass in heat waves and hot weather.  

Plant Care in the Heat 

Grass struggles in the heat, especially during uncharacteristic heat waves. Use these tips to help keep your lawn healthy.  

Mow in the Morning and Keep Your Blades Sharp 

Mow your lawn when it is coolest: in the morning. This will help prevent evaporation from the direct sunlight, meaning your grass is less likely to die and turn brown.  

Try to keep your grass at 3-4 inches in height for additional water upkeep. When the blades are longer the roots grow deeper, meaning more water is retained underground.  

Finally, ensure that your mower blades are sharp. Sharper blades create a more even cut in your grass, meaning there is less room for water loss.  

Do not apply fertilizer during a heatwave.  

It can be tempting to try and encourage growth by any means necessary during a heatwave. Resist the urge to add fertilizer to your grass. When heated, fertilizer can burn your grass, leaving long-lasting damage.  

Instead, for cool weather grasses, apply a slow-release organic fertilizer in mid-May, then again in September.  

If you have warm weather grass, it is a good thing to apply fertilizer in the summer. Just be sure to avoid doing so in a heatwave.  

Irrigate Effectively 

Irrigation is one of the most important aspects of keeping your lawn healthy. The actions you take during the heatwave will determine your grass's health when cool weather comes back around.  

Never water your grass during the hottest part of the day. This will lead to major evaporation and your efforts will go to waste (not to mention the waste of clean water).  

Irrigate early in the morning, before the sun rises if possible. The coolest hours of the day will mean that the sun cannot steal excess water and your grass will get the drink it so badly needs.  

Also, be sure to water deeply and infrequently rather than lightly and often. Water deeply two to three times per week to encourage deep root growth. 

Protect Your Lawns During Heath Waves 

During the next Ohio heat wave, don’t get caught off guard. Use these strategies to help you keep your grass green and healthy.  

Need extra help with your hardscaping or landscaping? Then you need to reach out to Lebanon Lawn and Landscape.  

At Lebanon Lawn and Landscape, we go the extra mile to ensure that you are satisfied with your hardscaping and landscaping projects the first time.  

Curious about the difference Lebanon Lawn and Landscape could make in your yard? Reach out today!