Smarter Way to Protect Your Lawn During Hot Nights

Fertilizing during peak summer heat requires caution and precision. Applying too much nitrogen too soon can backfire, fueling excess top growth, raising water demands, and encouraging disease.

Follow these expert-backed tips to manage fertilization wisely:

• Go Easy on Nitrogen:
  During mid-summer, extension programs across the Southeast recommend no more than ¼ pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 ft², and only when grass shows visible fading. Excess nitrogen forces top growth, increasing water demand and vulnerability to disease.
  
  
• Avoid Forcing Growth:
  Tall fescue can withstand temporary dormancy during hot weather. Pushing it to stay green through high-nitrogen feeding risks triggering brown patch disease and significantly increases irrigation needs.
  
  
• Watch Night Temperatures:
  Resume a more balanced feeding routine only once nighttime temperatures fall below 70°F, typically in early September. Cooler conditions support safer nutrient uptake and better root development.
  
  
• Targeted Fertility = Long-Term Health:
  Feeding lightly during summer helps the lawn conserve energy and moisture, while still preserving its ability to bounce back once fall arrives.
  
  
• Trust the Experts:
  A reputable lawn service in Clifton VA can assess lawn color, soil condition, and seasonal timing to apply the right amount of fertilizer at the right moment, without overdoing it.

A well-managed summer fertility plan supports resilience, reduces stress, and sets your tall fescue lawn up for a strong fall recovery. Want to learn more? Take a look at our latest blog post: Drought-Resistant Turf: Best Tall Fescue Practices for Hot, Dry Summers