Why you SHOULDN’T water your lawn at night after a hot summer day and when it really makes a difference to keep it green
THERE’S nothing quite as annoying as your lawn turning brown, especially if you’ve put time and effort into keeping looking lush year round.
Well, it turns out the problem might be down to the time you water it – according to experts late at night isn’t the best option.
The pros at Grass People revealed the actual best time to water your grass to keep it green.
Early in the morning or late in the evening are the optimal times, they told Express.co.uk.
This is because the water can reach the roots easily during these time periods, since it’s less likely to evaporate under the hot sun.
The roots of your grass need the most water to thrive, so ensuring they get as much of the good stuff as possible is vital.
And although it might seem like a good idea to take this a step further by watering your lawn very late at night, you’d be wrong.
According to the experts your lawn is more likely to develop diseases and fungal growth if watered when the temperatures drop at night because of the extended dampness.
They pros explained: “Aim to water your lawn early in the morning before the sun is out and late at night when the sun is down to avoid all your efforts being wasted.
“Alternatively, you can purchase an oscillating timed sprinkler that should help keep your lawn hydrated throughout the day – especially if you’re back in the office!”
They also suggested keeping foot traffic on your lawn as low as possible during a heatwave as it can worsen the problem.
Previously, Gardening expert Sam, who runs JayRock LawnCare & Gardening, told the Express.co.uk that you need to take action immediately if you want your garden to survive in the heat.
Sam explained: “I advise at least giving your lawn a heavy water in the morning before the temperatures of the day start to rise.
“Prevention is better than cure so people should start watering now!
“Fifteen to 30 minutes on each lawn should do the trick depending on size and water pressure.
Sam continued: “Applying a product like liquid seaweed can really help the overall health of the grass and reduce stress on the plant.”
Another thing you can do to protect your lawn is to ensure that you don’t cut your grass too short.
Although it may be tempting to regularly cut your grass to keep it looking fresh, it’s important that you don’t go mad cut it too short.
Longer grass helps protect the soil from the sun and stops it from drying out, so not cutting the grass too short is very important.
Sam added: “It is also a great time to get a slightly higher height of cut (HOC), one or two settings higher than you usually would.
“This will shade out the soil surface a bit more and hopefully help retain moisture in the soil for the roots to still uptake.”
June gardening jobs
The Sun's Gardening Editor, Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you should take this month.
Stake out leggy perennials
With all the dramatic weather we’ve been having, it’s definitely time to stake out your leggy perennials (the ones that come back every year). Heavy rain and growth spurts, can make them collapse and flop.
Picking out the slugs and snails
Hopefully as we move into summer they will do less damage as the plants get bigger. The best way is still to go out at night with a head torch to find them.
Pick elderflower heads
You can use them to make your own cordial, or add to cakes, champagne or even fry them in batter.
Get on top of weeds
It’s around now that weeds really ramp up in the garden, so keep on top of them with hoe-ing – or just the traditional ‘on your knees with a hand fork’. Try and avoid chemicals – remember weeds are just plants in the wrong place.
Up the mowing
You’ll need to mow your lawn weekly now – if you’ve got time, weed it beforehand as once you mow you chop off the leaves and its harder to see them.
Check on your tomatoes
Your tomato plants will need attention – water, feed and regularly and pinch out the sideshoots.
Chelsea Chop
There’s still time for the Chelsea Chop – plants like Rudbeckia’s, Asters, Penstemons, Sedums and other perennials can be cut back by a third to help them get a bit more bushy, and prolong the flowering period.
Sort out your tulips
If you can be bothered and have space – lift and story your tulip bulbs to ensure colour next Spring.
Deadheading your roses
Take them down to the first set of healthy leaves – which will ensure more flowers for longer.
Enjoy your space
Take some time to sit and enjoy your garden or outside space – it’s great for your mental health. Even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference.