Maryland summers can be beautiful—but they can also be brutal on your lawn. Between intense heat, unpredictable rain, and dry spells, it’s essential to prepare your grass for the season ahead. Whether you’re in Ellicott City, Catonsville, or anywhere near the Patapsco Valley, these local lawn care tips will help you keep your turf lush, green, and resilient all summer long.
Start with a Soil Test
Before you add anything to your lawn, find out what it actually needs. A soil test can reveal nutrient imbalances, pH levels, and organic matter content. This helps avoid wasting money on unnecessary fertilizers—and it gives your lawn a healthier foundation.
Pro Tip: You can pick up a soil test kit at your local garden center or contact us to help you interpret the results.
Adjust Your Watering Schedule
As temperatures rise, your lawn will need more consistent hydration. In Maryland, it’s best to water deeply (about 1 inch per week), ideally in the early morning to reduce evaporation and disease risk.
- Water 2–3 times a week, not daily
- Use a rain gauge to track actual rainfall
- Check for signs of drought stress: wilting blades, grayish color
Mow Smart, Not Short
Scalping your lawn in summer can stress the grass and invite weeds. Raise your mower blade to keep grass at about 3–4 inches tall. Taller grass shades the soil, retains moisture, and supports deeper roots.
Apply a Slow-Release Fertilizer (Carefully)
A well-timed fertilizer can give your lawn the nutrients it needs to grow through summer. Choose a slow-release, nitrogen-rich fertilizer and apply in late spring or early summer—but avoid over-fertilizing, which can scorch your lawn in the heat.
Need help choosing the right formula? Contact our team for customized recommendations.
Don’t Forget Weed and Pest Control
Warm weather brings out crabgrass, clover, and pests like grubs. Early summer is the time to apply:
- Pre-emergent weed control (if not done in spring)
- Targeted herbicides for spot treatments
- Grub control if you’ve seen lawn damage in previous years
Consider Aeration and Overseeding
Although fall is prime time, early summer can still work—especially for compacted soil. Aeration improves root growth and oxygen flow. If your lawn has bare patches, consider spot overseeding with drought-tolerant varieties.
Protect Your Investment Before Summer
Getting your lawn summer-ready isn’t just about looks—it’s about protecting your investment and enjoying your outdoor space all season long. If you want professional help prepping your landscape for a Maryland summer, Patapsco Valley Landscaping is here to help.
