Keep Your Lawn Green in the Late-Summer Heat

Essential Lawn Care Tips from Northern Roots Lawn Care

The end of summer in Minnesota brings heat, sun, and, despite the humidity, the occasional dry spells. And boy, does your lawn feel it! Without the right care, even the healthiest grass can start to turn brown, dry out, or even go dormant. But with a few smart strategies, you can keep your lawn lush, green, and thriving through the toughest summer weeks. Northern Roots Lawn Care knows what it takes to maintain beautiful lawns, even in extreme weather. Here are our top expert tips for keeping your grass green during the late-summer heat.

Water Deeply and Less Frequently

Consistent, deep watering is key in hot weather. Instead of light watering every day, water your lawn 2–3 times per week, applying about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time. This encourages deeper root growth, helping your grass become more drought-tolerant.

Early morning is the best time to water (before 10 a.m.) so the water soaks in before the sun causes evaporation.

Pro tip: To make sure you’re actually using enough water, use a tuna fish or cat food can to gauge the amount of water getting into your lawn! 

Raise Your Mower Blade

Mowing your grass too short in the summer can stress it out, especially during dry spells. Set your mower height to 3 to 4 inches to leave your grass a little longer. Taller grass shades the soil, reduces moisture loss, and encourages stronger root development.

Pro tip: Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.

Keep Your Mower Blades Sharp

When was the last time you checked out your lawn mower blades? Dull mower blades tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which can lead to browning and increased water loss. Sharp blades = healthier grass and a better-looking lawn, especially under summer stress.

Spot-Treat Weeds and Pests

Weeds compete with your lawn for water and nutrients. Keep them under control with targeted spot treatments rather than broad applications in August heat. If you’re seeing signs of grubs or insects, contact Northern Roots Lawn Care for professional pest control options.

Consider Overseeding in Late Summer

If your lawn is thin or patchy, late August into September is a great time to overseed. The soil is still warm enough for seeds to germinate, but the cooler nights help new grass thrive.

Call in the Pros for Lawn Maintenance Services

Don’t let the heat get the best of your lawn. At Northern Roots Lawn Care, we offer full-service lawn maintenance programs, including mowing, weed control, and seasonal care, to help your yard stay healthy all summer long.

We specialize in:

  • Weekly mowing with sharp, well-maintained equipment
  • Lawn treatments tailored to the time of year
  • Custom lawn care plans for your property’s unique needs

Stay Green, Even When It’s Hot

August may bring the heat, but with the right care, your lawn doesn’t have to suffer. Use these tips to maintain a vibrant lawn all the way into fall, and if you need help, we’re just a call away. Contact Northern Roots Lawn Care today to schedule your lawn maintenance or get a quote for ongoing lawn care services.