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Summer10 May 2026
Keeping Your Lawn Lush Through the UK Summer
British summers can swing from baking drought to torrential downpours. Learn how to keep your lawn looking great no matter what the weather throws at it.
Mowing Tips
- Mow little and often rather than scalping the grass in one go.
- During dry spells, raise the cutting height — longer grass shades roots and retains moisture.
- Leave clippings on the lawn occasionally to return nutrients to the soil.
Watering Wisely
- Water deeply once or twice a week rather than a light sprinkle daily.
- Early morning watering reduces evaporation and fungal disease.
- Collect rainwater in butts to use during hosepipe bans.
Dealing with Dry Patches
- Don't panic if your lawn turns yellow — British grass almost always recovers once rain returns.
- Spike compacted areas with a fork or aerator to improve drainage.
- Apply a summer lawn feed in June to support growth without scorching.
Common Summer Pests
- Watch for leatherjackets (crane fly larvae) causing brown patches — treat with nematodes in late summer.
- Chafer grubs can also damage roots; look for birds pecking at the lawn as a tell-tale sign.
Tip: Never water in full sun — droplets act like magnifying glasses and can scorch the grass blades.