Top 5 Most Common Summer Lawn Issues

Posted on: August 20th, 2024

As summer descends upon Oklahoma, the warm temperatures and increased sunlight can create a perfect environment for your lawn to thrive. However, this season also brings its own unique set of challenges.

At Watson’s Weed Control, we understand the importance of a healthy, vibrant lawn, and we’re here to help you navigate the most common summer lawn issues. So let’s discuss the top five common summer lawn issues homeowners face during the hot summer months and provide effective solutions to keep your lawn looking its best.

Drought Stress is the Most Common Summer Lawn Issue

Issue:

Oklahoma summers can be brutally hot, and prolonged periods of drought can lead to significant stress on your lawn. Grass may turn brown, become crunchy underfoot, and even develop dry patches.

Solution:

To combat drought stress, it’s crucial to implement a proper watering regimen. Water your lawn deeply but infrequently, aiming for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Early morning is the best time for watering, as it reduces evaporation and allows the grass blades to dry before evening. Additionally, consider investing in drought-resistant grass varieties or using mulch to retain moisture in the soil.

Weed Invasion is a Pesky Common Summer Lawn Issue

Issue:

Summer is prime time for weeds to flourish, and common offenders like crabgrass, dandelions, and clover can quickly take over your lawn if left unchecked.

Solution:

Prevention is key when it comes to weeds. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring can help inhibit weed growth. If you notice weeds popping up despite your best efforts, manual removal or spot-treating with a post-emergent herbicide can be effective. For an environmentally friendly approach, consider using vinegar or boiling water as natural weed killers. Regular lawn maintenance, including mowing at the proper height and maintaining healthy soil, will also help suppress weed growth.

Grub Infestations Will Drive You Crazy

Issue:

Grubs are the larvae of various beetles and feed on grassroots, leading to patches of dead or dying grass. They are one of the most common summer lawn issues in Oklahoma too.  Symptoms of infestation include wilting areas that can be easily pulled up, revealing the grubs beneath.

Solution:

To detect grubs, simply lift a section of your lawn and check for them. If you find a significant number (more than 5-10 per square foot), it’s time to act. Applying a nematode treatment or a targeted insecticide can help reduce grub populations. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lawn through proper watering and fertilization can help it recover from damage and resist future infestations.

Fungal Diseases Can Still Happen in the Heat of Summer

Issue:

High humidity and warm temperatures can create the perfect breeding ground for fungal diseases like brown patch, dollar spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases manifest as brown or discolored patches on your lawn.

Solution:

To manage fungal diseases, it’s important to maintain good lawn hygiene. Ensure proper air circulation by mowing regularly and avoiding overly dense grass. Water in the morning to allow grass blades to dry throughout the day, reducing humidity levels. If you notice an outbreak, consider applying a fungicide specifically designed for the type of fungus affecting your lawn. In addition, regularly aerating your lawn can improve drainage and reduce the prevalence of fungal issues.

Soil Compaction is the Final Most Common Summer Lawn Issue

Issue:

Heavy foot traffic, pets, and general wear and tear can lead to soil compaction, which restricts root growth and limits water and nutrient absorption. Signs of compaction include pooling water, sparse grass growth, and a hard surface that’s difficult to penetrate.

Solution:

Aeration is the most effective remedy for soil compaction. By perforating the soil with holes, you allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the grassroots more effectively. This process can be performed using a core aerator, which removes small plugs of soil from the lawn. It’s best to aerate during the growing season when the grass can recover quickly. Additionally, reducing foot traffic on heavily used areas and adding organic matter can help improve soil structure over time.

So now you know the most common summer lawn issues in Oklahoma.  We also know summer can be a challenging time for your lawn, but with the right knowledge and proactive measures, you can keep it healthy and thriving. At Watson’s Weed Control, we are committed to providing expert lawn care solutions tailored to the specific needs of Oklahoma homeowners. Whether you’re dealing with drought stress, weeds, grubs, fungal diseases, or soil compaction, our team is here to help. If you need assistance or want to take your lawn to the next level, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for professional lawn care services. Your dream lawn is just a call away!