Prepare for the last month of summer with our August lawn care checklist.
As August rolls in, it’s time to give your lawn some extra attention to ensure it remains healthy. August can be a difficult month, with high temperatures, fluctuating rainfall, and insects galore. However, maintaining proper lawn care in the last full month of summer can help you ease into autumn later. At Scientific Plant Service, we’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist to help you care for your lawn during this crucial month.
Encourage Grass Growth for Health Results
One of the best ways to maintain a healthy lawn in August is by maintaining the height of cut at 2.5 to 4 inches. . Taller grass will shade the soil, reduces evaporation, and encourages deeper root growth, resulting in a green, healthy, and more resilient lawn.
Fertilize Your Lawn in Late August or September
Late August through September is an ideal time to fertilize your lawn. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients that strengthen your grass as it prepares for cooler fall weather. Additionally you can supply nutrients to your soil by leaving grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. These clippings decompose and return valuable nutrients to the soil, promoting healthier growth.
Add Grass Seed and Water to Thin Spots
Address any thin or bare spots in your lawn by overseeding with recommended grass seed. Lightly rake the area to loosen the soil, then spread the seed evenly at the recommended rate. Water the newly seeded areas regularly to keep the soil moist until the grass is established. Planting seeds now will give your grass time to develop a strong root structure before autumn and winter frost. This will help fill in gaps and create a more uniform lawn.
Pulling Weeds After Rain
August is an excellent time to tackle weeds. After rainfall, when the soil is moist, weeds are easier to pull out by the roots. For best results, pull weeds in the morning or evening when it’s cooler. Removing weeds promptly prevents them from competing with your grass for nutrients and water.
Check for Lawn Compaction and Schedule Aeration
Lawn compaction can hinder water and nutrient infiltration, leading to poor grass health. Check for signs of compaction, such as water pooling or thin, patchy grass. If your soil feels hard and compacted, schedule aeration to alleviate the issue. Aeration creates small holes in the soil to improve air, water, and nutrient flow to the roots. Dethatching may also be necessary if a thick layer of thatch inhibits water penetration.
By following this August lawn care checklist, you can help your lawn remain healthy and vibrant throughout the summer and into the fall. At Scientific Plant Service, we’re here to provide expert advice and professional services to help you achieve the lawn of your dreams. For more information or assistance, please contact us.
Scientific Plant Service Is Your Go-To Source In Landscape Healthcare
Scientific Plant Service, located in Baltimore, is a privately owned corporation, chartered in Maryland in 1957 by Frank J. Burke. We started as a full-service Arborists specializing in the care of shade trees and ornamental shrubs, but today we are a Lawn Care company that is a huge part of the community. From aquatic environments and snow management to deer and mole control, SPS has services tailored specifically for your lawn and landscape.
We offer services in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia, including: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Calvert counties in MD, as well as Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church in VA. For more information, contact us online, or call us at 410-321-0970. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Pinterest.