As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, a lush, green lawn becomes the centrepiece of a summer garden.
But achieving that perfect stretch of grass doesn’t happen by chance.
Preparing your lawn for summer requires a bit of planning and attention to detail.
Whether you’re hoping to host garden parties or simply enjoy barefoot strolls, here’s how to get your lawn looking its best.
1. Clear the Debris
The first step in your lawn care routine is to tidy up.
Remove any leaves, twigs, and other debris that may have built up over winter and spring.
This allows sunlight and air to reach the grass and prevents damp conditions that can promote fungal diseases.
Rake thoroughly to remove thatch—a dense layer of dead grass and roots—which can choke new growth.
2. Mow with Care
When you begin mowing in late spring, don’t cut too short too soon.
Gradually lower the cutting height over a few sessions to avoid stressing the grass.
A general rule is to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow.
For summer, aim for a mowing height of around 2.5–4 cm for most lawns, slightly higher in very dry conditions to prevent the grass from drying out.
Make sure your mower blades are sharp to achieve a clean cut.
Ragged edges from blunt blades can make grass more susceptible to disease and turn the lawn an unsightly brown.
3. Aerate the Soil
Aerating your lawn helps improve water penetration and encourages root growth.
This is especially important if your lawn has heavy foot traffic or clay soil.
Use a garden fork or a mechanical aerator to spike the lawn, allowing air, nutrients, and moisture to reach the roots more effectively.
4. Feed Your Lawn
Feeding is essential to support healthy growth and vibrant colour through the summer months.
Choose a high-nitrogen fertiliser specifically designed for summer use.
Apply it after mowing and when the soil is moist, preferably just before light rain is expected.
Be careful not to overfeed, as this can lead to weak, leggy growth and increase the risk of disease.
5. Water Wisely
During hot spells, lawns can become stressed without adequate moisture.
Rather than frequent shallow watering, aim for deeper, less frequent soaks—about once a week.
This encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, making the grass more drought-resistant.
Early morning or late evening is the best time to water to minimise evaporation.
6. Control Weeds and Pests
Weeds compete with grass for nutrients and water, so tackle them early.
Spot-treat problem areas with a suitable herbicide or manually remove them.
For pest control, keep an eye out for signs of lawn grubs or chafer beetles, and consider using a biological treatment such as nematodes if necessary.
A healthy lawn enhances the entire look and feel of your garden.
With a little effort in the lead-up to summer, you’ll be rewarded with a resilient, vibrant lawn that’s ready for whatever the season brings—whether it’s family barbecues, garden games, or simple relaxation.