Summer in California and Arizona brings intense heat, low humidity, and long, sunny days—conditions that can be challenging for maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. But with the right turf care strategies, your grass can thrive even during the hottest months. Here’s your ultimate guide to keeping your turf in peak condition this summer.

1. Choose the Right Turfgrass Variety

The foundation of summer natural grass success starts with choosing the right variety. In the Southwest, warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass, TifTuf, and Tahoma 31 are ideal choices. These varieties are drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, and bounce back quickly from wear and tear. West Coast Turf offers these high-performance options, specially cultivated for California and Arizona climates.

2. Water Wisely

Efficient irrigation is essential in summer. Instead of watering every day, focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root growth. Early morning is the best time to water—before 8 a.m.—to reduce evaporation and fungal growth. Make sure your irrigation system is properly adjusted to avoid runoff and uneven coverage.

3. Mow Smart

Raise your mower blade during the summer months. Taller grass blades provide more shade to the soil, reducing evaporation and helping roots grow deeper. Never remove more than one-third of the blade length at a time, and always mow with sharp blades to avoid stressing the turf.

4. Fertilize Appropriately

Feeding your lawn during the growing season is critical, but timing and type matter. Use a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer to sustain steady growth without burning the turf. Avoid over-fertilizing during peak heat—it can stress the grass. Consult with your local West Coast Turf specialist for a fertilization plan tailored to your grass type and region.

5. Control Weeds and Pests

Summer conditions can lead to an increase in weeds and insect activity. Keep your turf dense and healthy to naturally crowd out weeds. Monitor for pests such as grubs and chinch bugs, and use targeted treatments if necessary. Integrated pest management practices are ideal for minimizing chemical use while maintaining control.

6. Aerate If Needed

Compacted soil can prevent water, air, and nutrients from reaching roots. If your lawn feels spongy or has heavy foot traffic, core aeration can relieve compaction and improve turf performance. Aerating in early summer can give your lawn a mid-season boost.

7. Stay Consistent

The key to summer turf care is consistency. Stick to a regular mowing, watering, and maintenance schedule. A little attention each week will prevent problems and keep your turf looking great all season long.

Summer lawn care in California and Arizona comes with its challenges, but with the right grass, tools, and techniques, you can maintain a beautiful, resilient yard. At West Coast Turf, we’re here to provide expert guidance and the highest quality sod for your unique climate. Contact us today to learn more about our summer-ready turfgrass options! 

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