From Spotlight: Take the Ugh Out of August With Lawn and AC Tips

Lawn Care Tips for the Heat of Summer

Mow your grass a little higher to keep it from drying out.

Lawn mower used for summer lawn care
Image: Carolyn Scott Photography

Late summer brings some of the hottest temperatures of the year and often strong summer storms that can damage your home.

Here are three tasks to help your yard and home keep their good looks:

#1 Mow High

Raise your mower blade: 3 inches or higher for cool-season lawns, and 2 to 3 inches for warm-season varieties. Why? Longer blades of grass provide some shade, helping your lawn retain water, which means you'll save time and use less water.

And leave the clippings: they'll help keep grass cool and fed. Plus you'll save money by not buying commercial fertilizers.

#2 Remove Damaged Branches

Pruned and damaged branches piled next to the street
Image: Liz Foreman for HouseLogic

Trim dead or diseased branches before summer storms turn them into projectiles that can damage your home. No one wants to see their house severely damaged and have to file an insurance claim.

#3 Top Off Mulch

Tree in front yard with summer mulch

A little extra mulch around trees and shrubs will keep them healthy and lush by helping roots retain moisture during hot summer days. It's worth the extra effort because your trees add value to your home while cutting cooling costs.

Author photo of Amy Howell Hirt
Amy Howell Hirt

Amy Howell Hirt has written about home design for 13 years. Her work has been published by outlets including "The Home Depot," "USA Today," and Yahoo! Homes. She previously served as home and garden writer and columnist for "The Cincinnati Enquirer."