Summer Lawn Survival Guide for Georgia

Watering the Right Way

Deep, infrequent watering builds stronger roots than daily light sprinkles. Most warm-season grasses in Middle Georgia need about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Water early in the morning — between 5 and 9 AM — to reduce evaporation and give blades time to dry before nightfall. Wet grass overnight invites fungal disease.

• Set out a tuna can during irrigation to measure output. One inch of water fills it.
• Water 2 to 3 times per week rather than every day.
• If your lawn footprints stay visible after walking on it, the grass needs water.

Recognizing Heat Stress

Heat stress shows up as a blue-gray tint in the grass, wilted blades, and slow recovery after foot traffic. Bermuda handles heat well but still struggles during extended drought. Centipede and St. Augustine are more vulnerable and show stress sooner. Do not confuse heat stress with disease — the treatments are completely different.

Summer Fertilization Strategy

Summer is not the time for heavy nitrogen. Pushing growth during peak heat stresses the plant further. A light application of slow-release fertilizer in early June keeps bermuda fed without forcing excessive top growth. Centipede and St. Augustine should get minimal nitrogen in summer. Iron supplements can green up a lawn without the growth surge that nitrogen causes.

• Iron applications add color without forcing growth.
• Avoid fertilizing during drought conditions.
• Potassium applications in early summer help with heat tolerance.

Mowing During Peak Heat

Raise your mowing height by half an inch during the hottest months. Taller grass shades the soil, reduces water loss, and keeps root temperatures lower. Mow in the early morning or late afternoon — never during peak heat. Keep blades sharp. Dull mower blades tear grass instead of cutting it, leaving ragged edges that brown out and invite disease.