top of page
Writer's pictureTimothy Jacobs

Lawn and Garden Care During Dry Spells in Ohio

As we reach the middle of September with little rainfall and no rain in the forecast, it's crucial for homeowners to adjust their lawn and garden care practices to cope with dry conditions. At Lawn Harmony Landscaping, we're committed to helping you maintain a healthy and vibrant outdoor space, even during challenging weather. Here are some essential tips for managing your lawn and garden during a prolonged dry period.


Prioritizing Water Conservation


1. Efficient Watering Techniques:

  • Deep Watering: Water your lawn and garden deeply but infrequently to encourage deeper root growth, which helps plants access moisture from deeper soil layers.

  • Best Times to Water: Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. This ensures that more water reaches the roots, where it’s needed most.

2. Mulching:

  • Retain Soil Moisture: Apply a thick layer of mulch around plants and garden beds. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps the soil temperature stable.

  • Types of Mulch: Organic mulches like wood chips, straw, or even grass clippings are excellent for holding moisture and gradually enrich the soil as they decompose.


Lawn Care Adjustments


3. Mowing Practices:

  • Raise Mower Blades: During dry periods, raise the cutting height of your lawn mower. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing moisture loss and helping to protect roots from the heat.

  • Minimize Mowing: Reduce the frequency of mowing to avoid stressing the grass. If you do mow, make sure the blades are sharp to prevent tearing the grass.

4. Postpone Fertilizing:

  • Avoid Fertilizers: Fertilizing during a drought can further stress your lawn and plants by encouraging growth when there’s not enough water to support it.


Garden Management


5. Prioritize Watering:

  • Focus on Young Plants: Prioritize watering for young plants and seedlings that have less developed root systems.

  • Drip Irrigation: Consider installing a drip irrigation system for targeted watering that delivers moisture directly to the roots and reduces waste.

6. Plant Selection:

  • Drought-Tolerant Plants: If dry conditions persist, consider incorporating more drought-resistant plants into your garden in the future. Native plants, succulents, and other drought-tolerant species can thrive with minimal water.


Long-Term Strategies


7. Soil Health:

  • Organic Amendments: Improve your soil’s water retention capacity by adding organic matter like compost. This enhances soil structure, helping it to hold water more effectively.

  • Cover Crops: Planting cover crops in unused garden areas can help protect the soil from erosion and moisture loss.


Contact Lawn Harmony Landscaping


For more guidance on caring for your lawn and garden during dry spells, or to schedule a consultation for drought-tolerant landscaping, contact Lawn Harmony Landscaping:



Follow us for more tips and updates:



Adjusting your lawn and garden care practices during dry spells is essential for maintaining a healthy landscape in Ohio. With the right strategies, you can conserve water, protect your plants, and keep your garden thriving despite the challenges.



Lawn

0 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page