Summer Lawn Care

Summer Lawn Care in Tampa/St. Pete

Phew, do you ever feel like keeping up your lawn in the summertime is a fruitless job? All within the same neighborhood, you will see lawns that are thriving, while just a few doors down, the outlook is far more bleak. This summer has been especially challenging with a very dry start. We all know that summers in Tampa Bay are tough on lawns. Between the High heat, heavy rain, occasional droughts, pests, and local fertilizer restrictions, the challenge is real. By watering wisely, mowing properly, and staying vigilant against pests, weeds, and diseases, you can keep your yard looking green and healthy even throughout the summer. Here are some key strategies to ensure you won't lose your lawn this summer! 

Key Strategies...

1. Water in Tandem With Nature

   • Water early in the morning (4–10 a.m.) to minimize evaporation and disease risk.

   • Maintain sprinklers and ensure rain sensors are functioning.

2. Mow Correctly

   • Mowing height matters more than fertilizer in summer. Taller mowing encourages deeper roots and reduces stress.

   • Follow the 1/3 rule: never remove more than a third of the blade at once.

   • Keep mower blades sharp and mow when the grass is dry.

   • Leave grass clippings on the lawn to recycle nutrients naturally.

3. Fertilize the Eco-Friendly Way

   • Respect blackout laws: no nitrogen or phosphorus June–Sept.

   • Alternatives: potassium-based fertilizers (0-0-x), liquid iron sprays, compost, or grass clippings left on the lawn.

   • Fertilize in May before summer rains arrive, and resume regular feeding in fall.

4. Stay Ahead of Weeds, Pests, and Diseases

   • Weeds: Mow regularly and pull early to prevent spreading.

   • Pests: Chinch bugs are a major threat in St. Augustine grass; monitor regularly and treat promptly if spotted.

   • Diseases: Hot, humid conditions fuel fungus. Water only in the morning and avoid over-irrigation. Treat problem spots quickly before they spread.

What it all comes down to... 

Nutrition aside, summer lawn success comes down to care habits: mowing high, watering smart, recycling clippings, and catching issues early. Think of it as strengthening your lawn’s foundation rather than forcing fast growth. With these key practices, your turf will survive the summer heat, ride out the fertilizer blackout, and bounce back stronger in fall. Much luck to you! 

Sources:floridst.com lawnstarter.com