Mid-August Lawn Care Tips for Long Island Homeowners

As summer starts to wind down on Long Island, the warm days of August present unique challenges and opportunities for lawn care. The heat and occasional dry spells can stress your grass, but with the right care, your lawn can stay healthy and green as we head into the cooler months. Here’s how you can give your yard the attention it needs during this crucial time of year.

Keep Up with Mowing, But Adjust the Height

During mid-August, it’s important to continue mowing your lawn regularly, but with a slight adjustment. The key is to raise the mowing height by a notch or two. Cutting your grass a little longer—around 3 to 4 inches—helps it retain moisture and withstand the summer heat. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing water evaporation and preventing weeds from taking root.

Water Wisely

Watering is essential, especially during the hotter days of August when rainfall might be scarce. The best time to water your lawn is early in the morning, between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. This allows the water to soak into the soil before the heat of the day causes it to evaporate. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, whether through rainfall or supplemental watering. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to shallow root growth and fungal issues.

Address Lawn Stress

If your lawn is showing signs of stress, such as brown patches or thinning areas, now is the time to address these issues. Mid-August is a great time to aerate your lawn, especially if the soil is compacted. Aeration allows water, nutrients, and oxygen to penetrate the soil more effectively, promoting healthier root growth.

For areas that are particularly thin or bare, consider overseeding. Choose a grass seed mix that’s well-suited to Long Island’s climate, and apply it evenly to the affected areas. Overseeding now gives the new grass time to establish before the cooler temperatures of fall arrive.

Prepare for Fall Fertilization

While August might not be the ideal time for heavy fertilization, it’s a good idea to start thinking ahead. Early fall is the prime time to apply a high-quality fertilizer that will help your lawn recover from the summer heat and prepare for the winter. Choose a slow-release fertilizer that provides essential nutrients over time, ensuring your lawn stays nourished as the seasons change.

Monitor for Pests and Diseases

The warm, humid conditions of mid-August can create an ideal environment for pests and lawn diseases. Keep an eye out for common issues like grubs, chinch bugs, and fungal infections. If you notice any signs of trouble—such as discolored patches, wilting, or an increase in bird activity (which can indicate grub presence)—it’s important to act quickly. Treating these problems early can prevent them from spreading and causing more damage.

Take Advantage of the Cooler Evenings

While the days can still be quite hot, Long Island evenings in August often bring cooler temperatures. This is a great time to get outside and give your lawn a little extra care. Whether it’s hand-watering specific areas, pulling weeds, or simply inspecting your yard for any issues, the cooler evenings offer a more comfortable environment for both you and your lawn.

Plan for Fall Landscaping Projects

August is also an excellent time to start planning any fall landscaping projects you have in mind. Whether you’re considering planting new shrubs, adding flower beds, or installing hardscaping features, now is the time to start preparing. As the weather cools in September and October, it’s easier to establish new plants and make major changes to your landscape.

Stay on Top of Lawn Maintenance with Reyes Lawn Care & Landscaping

Maintaining a healthy lawn in mid-August requires consistent care and attention to detail. If you need assistance with lawn maintenance, pest control, or preparing your yard for the fall season, Reyes Lawn Care & Landscaping is here to help. Our team of professionals understands the unique challenges of Long Island’s climate and can tailor our services to meet the specific needs of your lawn.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

Ready to give your lawn the care it deserves? Contact Reyes Lawn Care & Landscaping today for a free consultation. Let us help you keep your lawn healthy, green, and beautiful as we transition from summer to fall.