As summer vacation plans take shape, homeowners must ensure their lawns remain healthy while they are away. Before jetting off, experts recommend three key steps to protect your yard from potential damage, particularly during hot weather conditions. Following these simple guidelines can save you time and money, ensuring you return to a vibrant green lawn.
Maintain Your Lawn with a Pre-Departure Trim
One of the most effective ways to prepare your lawn before leaving is to give it a trim. According to Doug O’Connor, a lawn care expert at DeerFencing.com, cutting your grass a day before departure can significantly improve its health. He advises against cutting too short; instead, aim to remove just the top third of the grass blades.
“Cutting this amount reduces growth without stressing the lawn. If you cut it too short, you might come home to brown patches instead of green grass,” O’Connor explains. Not only does this trim help minimize the risk of sun damage, but it also deters weeds and pests that often lurk in longer grass.
Implement Smart Watering Systems
Watering your lawn efficiently is crucial, especially during periods of absence. Investing in a smart watering system can streamline this process, allowing you to set customized schedules through an app. These advanced systems adjust watering based on local weather conditions, preventing overwatering or underwatering, which can harm your grass.
“The latest smart sprinklers can check local weather forecasts and adjust watering accordingly,” O’Connor states. “They won’t run during rainstorms, saving water and preventing overwatering.” For those who prefer a simpler solution, enlisting a trusted neighbor to handle watering can also be effective. However, an automatic sprinkler system with a timer can be a significant help for frequent travelers.
One popular option is the Rachio smart sprinkler controller. This device is compatible with various yard types and allows users to customize watering schedules and monitor water usage through an app.
Enhance Soil Health with Slow-Release Fertilizer
Applying fertilizer is another important step to maintaining a healthy lawn while on vacation. O’Connor recommends using a slow-release fertilizer about a week before leaving. This type of fertilizer provides essential nutrients gradually, supporting steady growth without the risk of excessive growth that would require more frequent mowing.
“Resist the temptation to use quick-release products right before vacation,” O’Connor warns. “Those will just make your grass grow faster while you’re away, which is exactly what you don’t want.” Depending on the specific needs of your lawn, homeowners can choose an all-purpose fertilizer or one tailored to promote root development or overall plant health.
By following these three essential steps—trimming, smart watering, and applying slow-release fertilizer—homeowners can feel confident that their lawns will remain healthy while they enjoy their time away. Implementing these strategies not only enhances the appearance of your yard but can also significantly reduce the risk of returning to a distressed garden.