August Lawn Care Tips

How do you keep your lawn thriving in the heat? While we’re all struggling to stay cool, our grass areas need some help too. Especially with the UK experiencing more summer heatwaves (not that we’re complaining!).

August can be challenging for landscapers and homeowners trying to maintain a lush-looking lawn. It’s a critical time to keep your lawn hydrated as you start preparing for autumn survival.

Our lawn experts have pulled together their top turf tips for August, so you can make sure you get the most from your lawn this summer.

Article Contents

• Summer lawn challenges
• Essential turf tasks for August
  • Mowing
  • Feeding
  • Wedd control
  • Overseeding
  • Watering
  • Removing ant hills
• Laying turf in August
• Our range of turf
• Speak to the experts

Summer Challenges to Your Lawns

First, it’s important to note what you’re up against! Previously, August was considered ‘late summer’. However, with climate and temperatures shifting, it’s more the height of summer, with September marking the transition from summer to autumn. During August, gardeners and landscapers need to consider the following when looking after their lawns:

• High air temperatures
• Dry conditions
• Increased usage
• Low water levels
• Peak weed season

6 Essential Turf Tasks for a Top August Lawn

1. Mow high, light & often

How often should you cut your lawn in August? Unless your grass is showing signs of stress, continue to mow your lawn regularly. However, with higher temperatures, you want to keep those grass blades tall to provide shade to the soil and roots below, and help increase moisture retention.

To achieve this, make sure your mower blades are sharp for a swift, crisp cut. This will minimise damage or stress to your turf. Set your mower to a high setting and mow at least once a week, trimming the edges for a neat and tidy finish.

2. Summer Lawn Feeding

By August, you should notice any areas struggling with the heat. Now is the time to apply a summer fertiliser, such as our Envy Spring/Summer Fertiliser, which will help encourage growth and strengthen your turf. This is ideal as the summer holidays approach, and your lawn will be in high use!

What is the best lawn fertiliser in August? Look for a summer fertiliser with a high level of nitrogen for steady and even growth, phosphate for strong grass growth, and magnesium to boost its colour. Feeding your lawn in August will also help it develop a strong root system now, which will support your lawn through the upcoming autumn and winter weather.

3. Manage Weed Control

Even if we have a hot, dry spell with not much growth, trust us, the weeds are waiting! As rainfall finally breaks, you’ll notice those weeds waking up across your lawns. Clover and dandelions are prominent during this time of year, making your lawn look messy. A quick way to resolve them is with regular mowing, which is an easy solution for large areas. For smaller weed invasions, remove them by hand or use a weed killer on those persistent spots.

4. Consider Overseeding

If feeding your lawn isn’t reviving bald or bare patches, consider overseeding these areas. Similarly to fertiliser, by overseeding these areas now, you can help regrow and strengthen your lawn for the next season.

When applying grass seed, make sure you remove any thatch or grass clippings and that the ground is moist. Gently press the seeds into the earth, and apply a high-quality topsoil to protect your seeds. Avoid using the area while the seeds are establishing, and read our helpful blog on how to stop birds from eating your grass seeds. Our guide on dealing with brown and dry spots on your lawn also provides some great advice.

5. Watering Do’s & Don’ts

With lots of warm weather and little rainfall, it’s tempting to water your lawns every day. However, this isn’t always best for your turf, and could be a waste of your time. Old, established lawns will have a deep and resourceful root structure. Meaning they can source the water and nutrients they need from underground to survive the heat and bounce back once the weather cools down.

New lawns, however, will require a lot of watering to help them establish a strong root system and survive the hot, dry conditions. Water your new lawn in the morning and evening when evaporation levels are low. Remember to water for longer and deeper, to ensure every layer of turf receives a good drink. For more insights, visit our blog on how often to water new lawns.

6. Look Out For Ant Hills

During hot, dry and humid periods, you may notice an increase in ants. In particular, ant hills popping up across your lawn! This is because ants become more active with increasing temperatures, and their nests expand. Ant hills can cause problems to your turf’s root structure, not to mention create an uneven and unattractive lawn. Our blog on how to remove ant hills from your lawn tells you everything you need to know!

Can I Lay Turf In August?

Yes, you can roll out fresh turf in August. However, it is not always recommended as the hot weather can be a hindrance to you and your turf. As a living, breathing organism, turf has a short shelf life once harvested. This is dramatically shortened during the summer, and getting your turf laid out as soon as possible is vital. You also need to ensure your new lawn has plenty of water to fully establish and thrive over the next few months.

View Our Range of Turf

We offer a full range of high-quality turf ready to transform your summer lawns:

• Trident Turf
• RTF Turf
• Clover Turf
• Wild Flower Turf
• Species Rich Turf
• Shade Tolerant Turf

Speak to the Experts

Whether you’re reviving an existing lawn or laying a brand-new one, our team are here to help! We can address any of your turf-related queries, recommend the best type of turf for your project, and arrange a convenient booking that aligns with your timelines, ensuring your turf is in the best possible condition.

Helpful Articles

• Summer Lawn Care Guide
• Preparing Your Garden for the Summer Holidays
• Laying the Groundwork for Summer Prep