Utah is a state that is prone to drought, especially during the summer months. Drought conditions can cause significant damage to lawns, leading to brown patches, thinning grass, and even bare spots. If your lawn has been affected by drought, you might be wondering how to repair it. Fortunately, with some effort and patience, it is possible to bring your lawn back to its former lush and green state. Here are some tips on how to repair a drought damaged lawn in Utah climates.
6 Steps to repair a drought damaged lawn
- Assess the Damage
The first step in repairing a drought damaged lawn is to assess the extent of the damage. Walk around your lawn and look for areas that are brown or bare. Note the size and location of these areas so that you can plan your repair strategy. You should also look for signs of stress in the grass, such as wilting or yellowing.
- Water the Lawn
The next step is to water the lawn. This might seem counterintuitive, but even a drought damaged lawn needs water to recover. However, it is important to water your lawn correctly. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. A good rule of thumb is to water your lawn once a week, providing one inch of water per week. If you have an automatic sprinkler system, adjust the timer to water less frequently and for longer periods.
- Fertilize the Lawn
Fertilizing your lawn can help it recover from drought damage. Choose a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content, which will promote growth and help the grass recover. Apply the fertilizer evenly over your lawn, following the manufacturer's instructions. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can burn the grass and cause further damage.
- Reseed Bare Spots
If you have bare spots in your lawn, you will need to reseed these areas. Choose a seed blend that is suitable for Utah climates and matches the type of grass that you already have in your lawn. Spread the seed evenly over the bare spots, and then lightly rake the soil to cover the seeds. Water the area regularly to keep the soil moist until the new grass has become established.
- Mow the Grass
Once your lawn has started to recover, it is important to mow the grass correctly. Set your mower blade to a high setting, and only remove one-third of the grass blade at a time. Mowing too low can stress the grass and cause further damage. You should also keep your mower blades sharp, as dull blades can tear the grass and make it more vulnerable to disease.
- Prevent Future Drought Damage
To prevent future drought damage, it is important to take steps to protect your lawn during dry spells. Consider installing a rain sensor on your sprinkler system to prevent over-watering during rainy periods. You can also reduce water usage by planting drought-tolerant grasses and plants, and by using mulch to retain moisture in your soil.
In conclusion, repairing a drought damaged lawn in Utah climates requires patience and effort, but it is possible. By assessing the damage, watering correctly, fertilizing, reseeding, mowing properly, and preventing future drought damage, you can bring your lawn back to its former lush and green state. Remember, a healthy lawn is not only beautiful but also beneficial to the environment, providing oxygen, reducing erosion, and improving air quality. If you would like a more personal plan to help repair and prevent drought damage, give us a call today!