Summer Lawn Care (December - February)
Cool-Season Grasses (Browntop, Ryegrass, Fescue):
- Watering: Cool-season grasses can struggle in the summer heat. To prevent drought stress, water deeply but less frequently (2-3 times a week) to encourage deep root growth. Aim for early morning watering to reduce evaporation.
- Mowing: Raise your mower height to 5-6cm to help the grass retain moisture and shade the soil. Mow weekly, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade to reduce stress.
- Fertilising: Use a slow-release fertiliser high in potassium to strengthen your lawn against heat stress. Avoid high nitrogen fertilisers as they can promote rapid growth and make the grass more vulnerable to disease.
- Pest and Disease Monitoring: Cool-season grasses are prone to fungal diseases such as Brown Patch in summer. Watch for discolored patches and treat with appropriate fungicides if necessary.
Warm-Season Grasses (Couch, Kikuyu):
- Watering: Warm-season grasses are more drought-tolerant but still benefit from deep watering once or twice a week. Monitor for any signs of stress, such as wilting or a bluish tint.
- Mowing: Maintain Couch grass at a height of 1-2cm for a smooth, dense surface. Mow frequently (every 5-7 days) to promote lateral growth and minimize thatch buildup.
- Fertilising: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser at the start of summer to promote healthy growth. Ensure your lawn has enough nutrients without encouraging excessive top growth, which can make the turf more prone to wear and tear.