As another heatwave approaches, many gardeners may be wondering how best to protect their pots, borders and beautiful hanging baskets from the intense heat.
While timing is crucial when watering plants, does the same apply to lawns, and should you water your grass during a heatwave?
We asked the experts for their lawn-watering tips – and there's a surprising golden rule to follow for lush, healthy grass.
Should you water your lawn during a heatwave?
"In most cases, you should water your lawn during a heatwave, but the aim should be to keep your lawn healthy rather than maintain a perfectly green appearance," says Tom Douglas, Senior Gardening Buyer at Cherry Lane Garden Centres.
"Most established lawns are surprisingly resilient and can tolerate short periods of hot, dry weather by entering a dormant state, turning brown and conserving energy until conditions improve."
What is the best way to water your lawn during a heatwave?
According to Tom, you should water your lawn deeply and less frequently, rather than little and often. You can use a watering can, hose (unless there is a hosepipe ban), or reuse grey water generated from sinks.
"This encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, helping grass become more drought-tolerant over time," he tells us.
It's also important to water your lawn at the right time: ideally, before 9 am each morning and in the evening once the sun has gone in. Just make sure you don't leave the grass damp overnight, as it can increase the risk of fungal diseases during periods of hot weather.
"Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day, as much of the moisture will evaporate before reaching the roots," adds Tom.
When it comes to cutting your grass during a heatwave, a few simple adjustments can help reduce stress on your lawn.
"Raising your mower height allows longer grass to shade the soil and retain moisture, while avoiding fertilisers can prevent additional strain on already stressed lawns," says Tom.
"It's also a good idea to limit heavy foot traffic where possible and leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing, as they act as a natural mulch and help reduce moisture loss. Homeowners should remember that a brown lawn isn't necessarily a dead lawn; in many cases, healthy grass will recover naturally once cooler temperatures and rainfall return."
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Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
