With temperatures in the 80's and higher, your lawn will struggle to remain healthy. Growth slows, color fades and weeds may appear to flourish. Follow these simple tips to keep your lawn beautiful all summer long.

1. Raise the mower blade to at least 3 inches. Taller grass is more drought resistant and grows deeper roots which in turn, help prevent weed growth.
   
   
2. Water your lawn at least one inch per week - more if heat is severe. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deeper root growth. Always water in the early morning before temperatures raise to reduce evaporation and fungal growth.


3. Don't over fertilize. It's best to stop fertilizing your lawn about thirty days before the hottest temperatures of summer. Applying fertilizer can burn the lawn in high temperatures.; however, organic fertilizers provide a natural slow-release of nutrients which are less likely to cause burn damage.


4. Control weeds before they bloom but don't apply weed killer when temperatures are above 85 degrees. Hand pull weeds when possible.


5. Control insects and disease carefully in summer months with targeted insecticides and fungicides. Do not water the lawn in the evening to help prevent fungal disease and do not apply insecticides to a weakened lawn unless infestation is severe.

If you have questions about what types of products to buy or how to apply them, the knowledgeable staff at the Apple House is always ready to assist you!