Garden furniture, paddling pools and children's toys left on the lawn can block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to yellow patches and increasing the risk of fungal disease, according to horticulturist Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress. Moving these items regularly and storing them on a patio or hard surface when not in use will help keep the lawn healthy and green.
Why lawns suffer in heatwaves
Following several scorching weeks across the UK, the mild sunshine has been a welcome relief, but prolonged periods of heat can swiftly leave a lawn looking dry and threadbare. Chris Bonnett warned: "Lawns can really take a toll during heatwaves as the sun causes moisture to evaporate and scorches the grass."
Among his top recommendations is the need to remove any objects left resting on the grass. Garden furniture and paddling pools ought to be moved elsewhere to allow the lawn a proper opportunity to recuperate.
Watering and mowing tips
Understanding how to water a garden properly is equally essential. During warmer spells, moisture disappears at a considerably faster rate, meaning regular, shallow watering can prove largely futile. Deep watering is a considerably more effective method.
Chris explained: "Water deeply and less often so the moisture penetrates the soil and encourages deeper root growth. For the best results, water early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler and evaporation is reduced."
To keep a lawn in top condition throughout the summer, it is also recommended to let the grass grow slightly longer than during the winter months. Setting lawnmower blades higher assists the grass in holding onto moisture and protects the soil from drying out. Longer grass blades also provide a larger surface area for photosynthesis, allowing the lawn to produce the energy needed to endure spells of intense heat and drought.
Weed control
Chris's final tip is to stay on top of weeding. Weeds compete directly with a lawn for essential nutrients, so quickly tackling them gives the lawn the very best chance of flourishing.
