Virginia summers can be scorching, especially in Richmond, where temperatures frequently hit the 90s and beyond. If you’ve noticed brown patches, wilting grass, or thinning areas, your lawn may be suffering from heat stress. But don’t worry—with the right care, you can protect your lawn and keep it green all summer long.
Let’s look at expert tips to beat the heat, plus when to call in the pros.
Mow Smart, Not Short
Avoid cutting your grass too short. Taller blades of grass provide shade to the roots, helping retain moisture and prevent burnout.
- Set your mower height to 3–3.5 inches
- Keep blades sharp to avoid tearing the grass
- Don’t mow during peak heat hours (aim for early morning or late evening)
Water Deeply and Infrequently
Watering is crucial—but timing and technique matter.
- Water early in the morning (between 5–9 AM)
- Apply about 1 inch of water per week (more during drought)
- Use deep watering to encourage strong root growth
Avoid watering in the evening—this can promote fungal diseases in the humid Virginia climate.
Add Shade Plants or Trees
Shading part of your yard can cool the soil and reduce water evaporation.
- Install ornamental grasses, shrubs, or native trees
- Use ground covers in problem areas that won’t grow turf well
- Add mulch around trees and plant beds to regulate temperature and retain moisture
Spot Signs of Heat Stress Early
Your lawn may be trying to tell you it’s struggling.
Common signs:
- Grass turns blue-gray or yellow
- It stays flat after stepping on i
- You notice thinning or bare patches
Catch these signs early to prevent long-term damage.
Avoid Heavy Lawn Work During Heat Waves
Don’t dethatch, fertilize, or aerate during the hottest months. These stress your lawn even more. Instead:
- Wait until fall for major treatments
- Use light touch-ups or reseeding if absolutely necessary
When to Call a Professional Lawn Care Team
If your grass still looks dry, patchy, or beyond repair, it might be time for a professional evaluation.
At Sandoval Landscaping, we can:
- Design a summer-friendly care plan tailored to your lawn
- Install efficient irrigation systems
- Recommend or plant drought-resistant sod
- Apply eco-friendly treatments for dry, patchy areas
Final Tips:
- Mow high
- Water deep and early
- Use mulch in plant beds
- Keep an eye on early heat stress symptoms
- Consider shade landscaping where grass struggles
Ready for Summer Lawn Help in Richmond?
Don’t let the heat ruin your yard. Let the pros at Sandoval Landscaping & Contractors keep it lush, healthy, and beautiful—all summer long.
Request a free quote or call us today to schedule your lawn care visit.