Optimize Lawn Health During Summer Heat
As late spring transitions to early summer turf care, it’s time to adjust your strategies to protect lawns from rising temperatures and environmental stress. At PJC Organic, we recommend a proactive, natural approach to help your turf thrive during the heat of summer.
Below are four early summer turf care tips to strengthen lawns organically and sustainably. Stay tuned for Part 2 with even more best practices!
1. 🌱 Mow High for Healthy Turfgrass
“Mow High – May, June, and July” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a strategy. Mowing turfgrass too short during early summer, especially without irrigation, stresses the plant and increases vulnerability to heat.
Set mower decks to 3–4 inches to encourage deeper root growth and maintain moisture. Taller turf is better equipped to outcompete weeds and withstand unpredictable summer weather.
2. 💧 Water Deeply & Infrequently
Adopt PJC’s 1-2-3-2-1 Watering Method to encourage strong root systems and water efficiency. Deep, infrequent watering (2–3x per week) supports turf resilience, especially when combined with proper fertility and organic cultural practices.
3. 🌾 Aerate and Overseed (Irrigated Lawns Only)
Early summer is a strategic time to aerate and overseed irrigated lawns. This helps relieve soil compaction and introduces hardy seed varieties like turf-type tall fescue.
⚠️ Avoid overseeding non-irrigated lawns—drought conditions can kill new seedlings.
4. 🧪 Fertilize with Potassium for Summer Stress
Potassium (K) is your best friend for turf during summer. It boosts drought tolerance, root strength, and disease resistance. Think of it like winter prep, but for summer stress.
Apply PJC ProHealthy Turf 6-0-6 or 8-0-6 to deliver readily available potassium and keep lawns strong and green during the season.
🛠 Bonus Tip: Use Our Organic Turf Care Calendar
Feeling overwhelmed? Explore PJC’s Organic Turf Care Calendar on our Resources Page to plan products and practices month-by-month.
Our Organic Turf Care Programs for Landscapers, Schools & Municipalities are built from 20+ years of experience. Reach out if you’d like help building or adjusting your program!
