As the UK bakes in its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures soaring above 30°C in Liverpool and other areas, gardening experts are urging Britons to avoid one common lawn task: mowing. Letting the grass grow longer helps protect the soil and roots from the sun's intense heat, keeping the lawn greener for longer.
Why Longer Grass Is Better in a Heatwave
Mike Palmer, known as Mike the Gardener, shared his advice on the Zoe Ball and Jo Whiley's Dig It podcast. He said: "My last tip, keep grass nice and long in the heat. Keeping it longer will keep it greener for longer." His guidance is backed by Good Housekeeping, which warns that cutting grass too short leaves it vulnerable and exposed, allowing sunlight to penetrate deeper and reach the soil beneath.
John Cho, founder at MyCozyPlant, explained: "Taller grass blades act as a natural shade for the soil. If you cut it too short before a hot spell, the sun bakes the dirt and damages the roots. If you do cut your lawn just before a heatwave, it's important that you do so at the highest height setting."
Watering Tips for Lawns During Hot Weather
Experts also agree on the best time to water lawns. Mike the Gardener advised: "Water plants in the cool of the morning or the evening or both if it's been really dry. And make sure you put the nozzle right at the base of the plant so as not to waste any and get the water right on top of the soil where it will go straight to the roots."
Good Housekeeping supports this, noting that watering during peak heat causes evaporation before the water can be absorbed. Hugh Barlow, head of commercial at East Riding Horticulture, recommends watering first thing in the morning, focusing on the root zone rather than the foliage. He also suggests prioritising frequently used sections if water is restricted.
Record Heat and Drought Conditions
July has been exceptionally dry, with some regions of England experiencing 0% of their average rainfall so far this month. Over eight million households across the UK are currently subject to a hosepipe ban. The Met Office reports no clear end to the heatwave, as meteorological records continue to be broken in 2026.
