29/08/2026
What sort of lawn do you want next year?
It has been a tough few months for lawns. Heat waves, record high temperatures, drought and hose pipe bans have put extreme stress on grass plants and water resources. The result is some very crisp, brown, straw lawns in which only w**ds are doing well.
In all likelihood the grasses have just gone dormant and will come back with sufficient water. But some may have died off completely, especially on poor lawns which may not have been healthy or well-maintained in the first place.
There is no replacement for rain when it comes to maintaining a green, grass lawn. However, there are steps that can be taken to protect a lawn against drought:
- ensure soil is not compacted by aerating – this allows grass to root deeper and access moisture which is lower in the soil profile
- don’t mow too short to allow the grass to focus on growing strong roots rather than replacing cut leaves above ground
- apply a wetting agent/water conserver in advance of future dry conditions to improve water absorption and retention in the soil
- when seeding a lawn or bare patches, use a quality seed species which has good drought resistance and which will root deeper
All lawns will suffer in conditions of drought. But ensuring your lawn is as healthy and prepared as possible can help it withstand these conditions and recover once rain finally returns.
Autumn is almost here, making it the perfect time to restore your lawn to its best.
I am now taking bookings for lawn renovation work including scarification, aeration and re-seeding. ACT NOW - get in touch and arrange a lawn assessment.
Neil
Definition Lawn Care
