The Ultimate Guide to Summer Lawn Care in New Zealand

Summer in New Zealand is a time for outdoor barbecues, garden parties, and making the most of our beautiful landscapes. However, the hot, dry conditions of summer can take a toll on your lawn and garden if they aren’t properly cared for. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your lawn lush and your garden thriving through the summer months.

Why Summer Lawn Care is Crucial

Summer brings longer days, increased temperatures, and less rainfall. While these conditions are perfect for outdoor activities, they can stress your lawn and garden. Without proper care, lawns can become dry, patchy, and overrun with weeds, while gardens may struggle to retain their vibrancy.

A well-maintained lawn and garden not only look great but also add value to your property and create a welcoming outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment.

1. Summer Lawn Mowing Tips

Mow at the Right Height

During summer, it’s essential to adjust your mower’s cutting height. Longer grass helps shade the soil, reducing water loss and preventing weed growth. Aim to keep your lawn about 5-7cm high. Cutting it too short can stress the grass and make it more susceptible to scorching.

Sharpen Your Mower Blades

Dull mower blades tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, leading to frayed edges that brown quickly. Keep your mower blades sharp to ensure a clean cut that promotes healthy growth.

Avoid Scalping

Scalping occurs when you cut the grass too short, exposing the soil and making it more prone to drying out. Always mow with care, especially during heatwaves, to protect the health of your lawn.

Follow the One-Third Rule

Never cut more than one-third of the grass height in a single mow. Removing too much at once can shock the grass and weaken its roots.

2. Watering Your Lawn and Garden

Water Deeply, Not Frequently

Frequent shallow watering encourages shallow roots, making your lawn more vulnerable to drought. Instead, water deeply once or twice a week to encourage deep root growth. Aim for about 2.5cm of water per session, including rainfall.

Best Time to Water

Water your lawn early in the morning to reduce evaporation and give the grass time to absorb moisture before the heat of the day. Avoid evening watering, as it can lead to fungal diseases.

Use Sprinklers Wisely

If you’re using a sprinkler system, ensure even coverage. Move sprinklers periodically to avoid creating dry patches or overwatering certain areas.

3. Fertilizing in Summer

Choose the Right Fertilizer

Select a slow-release fertilizer specifically designed for summer use. These fertilizers provide nutrients gradually, helping your lawn withstand heat stress.

Apply Sparingly

Over-fertilizing can burn your grass and damage its roots. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct application rate.

Timing is Key

Fertilize your lawn in early summer to give it the nutrients it needs to thrive during the hotter months. Avoid fertilizing during extreme heat, as this can stress your grass further.

4. Combatting Weeds and Pests

Weed Control

Weeds compete with your lawn for water and nutrients, so it’s important to address them promptly. Use a targeted herbicide for persistent weeds and hand-pull smaller ones before they spread.

Watch for Pests

Common lawn pests like grass grubs and armyworms can wreak havoc on your lawn. Inspect your lawn regularly for signs of infestation, such as brown patches or chewed grass, and treat with appropriate pest control measures.

5. Lawn Aeration

Why Aeration is Important

Aerating your lawn improves airflow, water absorption, and nutrient uptake. It also helps reduce soil compaction, which can occur during the busy summer months when lawns see heavy foot traffic.

How to Aerate

Use a garden fork or a mechanical aerator to create small holes in the soil. Focus on areas that receive the most traffic or appear compacted.

6. Garden Care for Summer

Mulching

Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches, such as bark or straw, also break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil.

Deadheading Flowers

Regularly remove spent flowers from your plants to encourage further blooming. Deadheading redirects the plant’s energy into new growth rather than seed production.

Pruning

Trim back overgrown shrubs and hedges to maintain their shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning also improves airflow, reducing the risk of diseases.

7. Preparing for Drought

Drought-Resistant Plants

Incorporate drought-tolerant plants into your garden. Native plants, succulents, and ornamental grasses require less water and are better suited to dry conditions.

Soil Conditioning

Improve your soil’s water retention by adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. Healthy soil holds water better, reducing the need for frequent watering.

Rainwater Harvesting

Install rainwater barrels to collect and store water for use during dry spells. This sustainable practice is good for the environment and reduces your water bill.

8. Common Summer Lawn Problems and Solutions

Brown Patches

Brown patches can result from drought stress, pest infestations, or fungal diseases. Identify the cause and address it promptly. Watering deeply, improving soil health, and applying fungicides or pesticides can help.

Thatch Build-Up

Thatch is a layer of dead grass that accumulates on the soil surface. Too much thatch can block water and nutrients from reaching the roots. Dethatch your lawn using a rake or dethatching tool.

Compacted Soil

Heavy foot traffic can compact soil, restricting root growth. Aerate your lawn to alleviate compaction and improve its health.

9. Tips for a Picture-Perfect Summer Lawn

• Create a Lawn Care Schedule: Set reminders for mowing, watering, fertilizing, and other tasks to ensure consistent care.
• Edge Your Lawn: Neatly trimmed edges give your lawn a professional look.
• Incorporate Pathways: Use stepping stones or gravel paths to reduce wear and tear on high-traffic areas.
• Add Colorful Borders: Plant vibrant flowers or shrubs around the edges of your lawn for added visual appeal.

Caring for your lawn and garden during the summer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques, you can maintain a lush, green lawn and a thriving garden that’s the envy of the neighborhood. Whether it’s mowing at the right height, watering wisely, or preparing for drought, these tips will help your outdoor space shine all summer long.

For professional assistance with lawn mowing, hedge trimming, and garden care, contact Lawn Rite. Our expert team is here to help you achieve the perfect summer lawn. Visit www.lawnrite.co.nz to learn more or book a service today