As the El Niño weather phenomenon begins in 2026, a lawn expert has urged UK gardeners to prepare for potentially extreme summer heat. Chris McIlroy, lawn expert at The Grass People, recommends proactive steps to protect gardens after one of the hottest springs on record.
Prepare Your Lawn for El Niño Summer
McIlroy stated: “We won't know the true impact of El Niño this summer until it’s upon us. But after an unseasonably warm spring, it’s sensible to predict a hot summer is to follow. Taking steps to prepare your garden now will go a long way in ensuring it stays vibrant throughout the summer.”
Aerate Your Lawn
Creating small holes in the lawn helps water and nutrients reach grass roots, improving resilience during dry spells. “You don’t necessarily need fancy equipment to aerate your lawn, using a pitch fork will suffice. It can prevent the lawn becoming compacted, so that water can seep through instead of just sitting on top,” Chris explained.
Choose the Right Feed
Feeding before peak summer supports growth, but moderation is key. “Too much fertiliser can do more harm than good, particularly as temperatures rise. Opt for balanced or potassium-rich feeds rather than high-nitrogen products on your lawn, which can encourage vulnerable growth. Feeding plants can also help build their resilience, too,” he added.
Raise Your Mower Blade
Leaving grass slightly longer helps retain moisture. “Letting your grass grow a little longer before a heatwave gives it a head start. Longer grass shades the soil, helping it retain moisture when it matters most. Set your mower blades to a higher setting so you're not cutting too much off,” Chris advised.
Water Wisely
Establishing a morning watering routine is crucial. “Training yourself to water at the right time before a heatwave arrives means it becomes second nature when you really need it. Avoid the middle of the day, when water is likely to evaporate before it can soak through to the grass roots. Establish a habit of watering first thing in the morning. That way, when temperatures do spike, your lawn is already used to absorbing hydration properly and won't dry out as easily,” he said. He also recommended installing a water butt to capture rainfall in case of hosepipe bans.
