Beat the Heat: Tips for Preventing Summer Lawn Burn in Plattsburgh

Keeping your lawn healthy and green during the hot summer months can be a challenge, especially in upstate New York where temperatures can be high and rainfall may be scarce. However, there are a few steps you can take to prevent your lawn from burning during the summer:

Water deeply and infrequently: During hot weather, it's important to provide your lawn with a deep and infrequent watering. This encourages deep rooting and helps the grass to become more drought-tolerant. A general rule of thumb is to provide 1 inch of water per week, either through irrigation or rainfall.

Mow at the right height: Keeping your lawn at the right height can help prevent it from burning during the summer. It's best to mow cool-season grasses (such as bluegrass and fescue) to a height of 2.5 to 3 inches in upstate New York. Longer grass has deeper roots, which helps it access moisture and stay green during hot weather.

Fertilize properly: Applying fertilizer during the hot summer months can actually stress your lawn, so it's best to avoid it. If you must fertilize, it's best to do so during the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler and the grass is growing more actively.

Provide shade: Providing shade for your lawn can help protect it from the hot sun. This can be done by planting trees or using shading devices such as umbrellas or shading fabric.

Apply a thin layer of mulch: A thin layer of mulch can help protect the soil from the sun and reduce the need for watering. It also reduces weed competition.

By following these tips, you can help prevent your lawn from burning during the hot summer months in upstate New York. Remember to be mindful of water restrictions in your area and use water efficiently.