Summer Lawn Care Tips to Keep Your Grass Green in the Texas Heat

Texas summers are tough—not just on people, but on lawns too. Scorching heat, inconsistent rainfall, and heavy foot traffic can all leave your grass dry, brittle, and brown. But with the right strategy, your yard can stay green and thriving even in triple-digit temperatures. Here are essential summer lawn care tips to protect your turf when the heat is on.

1. Water Deeply, Not Frequently

The biggest mistake homeowners make in summer is watering too often but too shallow. Shallow watering encourages weak, surface-level roots that can’t handle the heat.
Instead, water deeply 2–3 times per week, allowing moisture to reach 6–8 inches below the surface. Early morning watering is best—it minimizes evaporation and helps your lawn absorb more water before the sun gets too strong.

To make watering even more efficient, consider moisture management treatments to help your soil retain water longer.

2. Mow Smart (and Higher)

Raise your mower blade during summer. Cutting grass too short exposes roots to sun damage and increases water loss.
For most Texas grasses, keep your mowing height between 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Taller blades shade the soil, conserve moisture, and help crowd out weeds.

Also, avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day—early morning or evening is best to prevent stress on the grass.

3. Keep Your Blades Sharp

Dull mower blades tear grass instead of cutting it cleanly, leaving frayed edges that dry out and invite disease. Sharpen your mower blades every 20–25 hours of use, or hire professionals for lawn mowing services to ensure consistent, precise results.

4. Don’t Skip Fertilization

Many homeowners think fertilizing in summer will burn their lawn—but when done correctly, it actually strengthens it. Use a slow-release fertilizer designed for warm-season grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine.
These nutrients help your lawn recover from heat stress and maintain its green color through late summer.

For best results, schedule professional fertilization services that use the right blend and timing for your lawn type and soil conditions.

5. Watch for Pests and Disease

Hot, humid weather is the perfect breeding ground for pests like chinch bugs, armyworms, and grubs, as well as fungal issues such as brown patch or dollar spot.
If you notice irregular brown areas, thinning grass, or soft soil, it may be time for insect control or fungus treatment.

Early detection and professional care can prevent these issues from spreading and damaging your entire yard.

6. Aerate and Condition Your Soil

Even in summer, core aeration helps relieve compacted soil and improve oxygen and nutrient flow. Pairing aeration with soil conditioning enhances water absorption and helps roots grow deeper—vital during dry spells.

Healthy soil is your lawn’s first line of defense against heat and drought.

7. Limit Traffic and Stress

Try to reduce foot traffic on the lawn during extreme heat. Constant pressure compacts the soil and damages weakened grass blades. If you’re hosting gatherings, rotate play or seating areas to help grass recover evenly.