High Temps and your lawn

​Taking care of your lawn in Omaha, Nebraska, when it's 99 degrees Fahrenheit requires some special attention to prevent heat stress and damage to the grass. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy lawn during hot weather:

1. Watering:
   • Water deeply and infrequently: Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize water evaporation. Water deeply (about 1-1.5 inches) to encourage deep root growth, which makes the grass more drought-resistant. Avoid watering during the hottest parts of the day, as much of the water may evaporate before reaching the roots.
   • Use a sprinkler system or soaker hoses: These methods will help ensure even and thorough watering, reducing the risk of under- or over-watering.
2. Mowing:
   • Raise the mower height: Set your mower to cut the grass at a higher height (around 3 inches) during hot weather. Taller grass shades the soil, keeping it cooler and reducing water evaporation.
   • Keep the mower blades sharp: Dull blades can tear the grass, making it more susceptible to stress and disease.
3. Fertilizing:
   • Avoid fertilizing during extreme heat: Applying fertilizer during very hot conditions can burn the grass and cause further stress. It's best to wait for cooler temperatures to resume fertilizing.
4. Shade and Protection:
   • Provide some shade: If possible, create temporary shade over parts of your lawn during the hottest times of the day using umbrellas, shade cloth, or temporary structures. This can help protect the grass from the scorching sun.
   • Avoid heavy traffic: Limit foot traffic and avoid parking heavy equipment on the lawn during hot weather, as it can cause additional stress to the grass.
5. Lawn Health:
   • Monitor for pests and diseases: During extreme heat, grass can be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for any signs of trouble and take appropriate action if needed.
   • Aerate the soil: Lawn aeration helps improve water and nutrient absorption, which is especially beneficial during hot weather.
6. Be Water-Wise:
   • Follow local watering restrictions: If there are water usage restrictions in place due to drought conditions, be sure to adhere to them.
   • Consider using rain barrels: Collect rainwater for watering your lawn during dry spells. It's a more sustainable option and can help conserve water.

Remember that different grass types have varying tolerances to heat and drought. In Omaha, common grass types include Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass, which generally handle heat relatively well. However, it's essential to consider the specific needs of your lawn and adjust your care accordingly.
Lastly, if the heatwave is extreme and prolonged, and you notice the lawn suffering despite your efforts, it's important to know that some degree of dormancy (browning) in the grass during extremely hot conditions can be normal. The grass should recover once temperatures cool down and regular care practices resume.

If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call, Kozy Lawn Care, we are here to help you with all your lawn care needs. Check out our services on our Lawn Services page.