Gardeners are being urged to move common items off their lawns to prevent yellow patches and fungal damage after a hot summer. Horticulturist Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress, says garden furniture, paddling pools and trampolines left on grass for long periods can block sunlight and trap moisture.
Why items on grass cause damage
Bonnett cautioned: "Lawns can really take a toll during heatwaves as the sun causes moisture to evaporate and scorches the grass." He said objects resting on the lawn should be moved elsewhere to allow the grass to recuperate properly.
He continued: "Garden items such as paddling pools, trampolines and children's toys left on the lawn for long periods can block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to yellow patches and increasing the risk of fungal disease."
How to water and mow correctly
Bonnett recommends deep watering less often, so moisture penetrates the soil and encourages deeper root growth. He advised: "Water deeply and less often so the moisture penetrates the soil and encourages deeper root growth."
For best results, he said to water early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler and evaporation is reduced. He also suggests letting grass grow longer in autumn than in winter, setting mower blades higher to help the grass hold moisture and protect the soil.
Longer blades provide a larger surface area for photosynthesis, allowing the lawn to produce energy needed to endure extreme heat and drought. His final tip is to stay on top of weeding, as weeds compete with the lawn for essential nutrients.
