Austin's year-round sunny weather is one of our city's largest attractions for prospective real estate buyers. The sunshine can have a downside for some, however; dry summers can be harsh on lawns, especially when the city is forced to impose limitations on water use. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to maintain a beautiful lawn, even during drought conditions. Here are some quick tips:
- Watering early in the morning means that less water will be lost to evaporation, meaning that you won't have to use as much water. Watering at night is not recommended, as it can encourage certain diseases that affect grass.
- Fertilizing your lawn during the summer is not recommended. Grass survives dry seasons by going dormant, meaning it temporarily stops growing. Grass that is being encouraged to grow by fertilizer will need more water.
- Raise the mowing height of your lawn mower by about 25%. Since grass does not grow as much in dry conditions, a low-set mower could cut up roots in addition to the tips of the blades.
- Walk on your lawn as little as possible. Grass has a difficult time recovering from the damage of being stepped on during dry conditions.
- In the event of an extended drought, you may have to pick certain plants or areas of your lawn to water. Remember, brown or yellow grass is not necessarily dead; it may have simply gone dormant. You may have to simply resign yourself to brown grass for a month or two.
If you are considering purchasing an
Austin home, the realtors of the Carvajal group can help you find the perfect fit. Contact us at 512-419-7770.
