Lawn Fertilization For Drought-Resistant Landscaping

Although droughts occasionally occur, some areas are beginning to experience them more frequently. If you've encountered a critical warm, dry climate in the previous summer, ensure you increase your grass care in the approaching spring to get an early advantage. Due to their robust root systems and thick top growth, strong lawns that are regularly fertilized are better able to withstand drought stress and recover more quickly.

What Is A Drought?

A drought is a period of time when a region experiences below-average rainfall. Droughts can last for weeks, months, or even years. They can significantly impact the environment, agriculture, and the economy.

Many different factors can cause droughts, including:

• Changes in climate patterns. Climate change is causing the Earth's atmosphere to warm, which is leading to more evaporation and less precipitation. This is making droughts more common and more severe.
• El Niño and La Niña. These are climate patterns that can cause changes in rainfall patterns. El Niño can cause droughts in the southwestern United States, while La Niña can cause droughts in Australia and Indonesia.
• Human activities. Human activities, such as deforestation and water pollution, can also contribute to droughts.

The impacts of drought can vary depending on the drought's severity and the affected region. Some of the common impacts of drought include:

• Reduced crop yields. Drought can damage crops, leading to reduced food production and higher prices.
• Water shortages. Drought can reduce the amount of water available for drinking, irrigation, and industrial use. This can greatly impact the health of lawns when they have their water supply cut.
• Wildfires. Drought can make forests and grasslands more susceptible to wildfires. This is an extreme concern for landowners, especially in regions where wildfires are more common.

Droughts are a serious problem that can significantly impact communities and the environment. Getting that green lush lawn is especially challenging during a drought, but careful planning can accomplish it in even the harshest conditions.

The Importance Of Using The Proper Fertilizer During A Drought

No matter the time of year, fertilizing is essential for healthy lawn growth. Composts give supplements like potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, assisting grass with development. During a drought, fertilizer must be applied with the utmost care, as over fertilizing can burn the grass and ruin your lawn.

Droughts change the needs of your lawn, changing how you must take care of it. The standard nitrogen-rich fertilizer from your local garden center may do more harm than good in these harsh conditions. This is the ideal time to consult a lawn care professional, like the ones at Holmes Lawn & Pest.

A lawn care expert will study and test your lawn based on the grass type, water usage, and general location to create a custom mix of fertilizer that will help your lawn thrive in these harsh conditions. Under expert guidance, you can enjoy a lush green lawn even during a drought.

Creating A Drought-Resistant Lawn

Creating a lush green outdoor space in a drought will take some extra precautions, but by following these tips, you can help make your lawn more drought resistant and reduce water usage.

• Choose the right grass type. Some grass types are more drought-tolerant than others. Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass are all good choices for drought-prone areas.
• Water deeply and less often. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow deeper, which makes the lawn more drought resistant. Water your lawn deeply once or twice a week rather than lightly daily.
• Aerate your lawn. Aeration helps to improve the soil drainage, making it easier for the roots to get the water they need. Aerate your lawn once a year in the fall or spring.
• Mow your lawn at the right height. Mowing your lawn at the right height helps to shade the soil and prevent it from drying out. Mowing your lawn at a height of 2-3 inches is recommended.
• Fertilize your lawn properly. Fertilizing your lawn with the right fertilizer helps to keep it healthy and drought-resistant. Over-fertilizing or using the wrong fertilizer can actually make your lawn more susceptible to drought.
• Remove weeds. Weeds compete with grass for water and nutrients. Remove weeds from your lawn regularly to help it stay healthy and drought-resistant.
• Mulch your lawn. Mulch helps to keep the soil moist and cool, which can help your lawn to survive drought conditions. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your lawn.

Here are some additional tips:

• Install a rain gauge. This will help you to track how much rain your lawn is getting.
• Check the soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger into the soil to a depth of 2 inches. If the soil is dry to the touch, it's time to water.
• Water early in the morning or at sundown. This will help to reduce evaporation.
• Be patient. It takes time to make a lawn drought-resistant. Don't expect to see results overnight.

By taking these steps, you can help to keep your lawn healthy and green during a drought.