Lawn Mowing Tips During Summer In Canada

Maintaining a lush, healthy lawn during scorching summer temperatures can be challenging. In Canada, where the weather can swing from chilly to sweltering, proper lawn mowing, edging, and trimming becomes even more crucial. In this article, we’ll explore expert advice on mowing your lawn during hot weather and provide practical tips to keep your grass looking its best.

How hot is too hot to mow?

There isn’t an exact temperature limit for mowing in hot weather, but sustained temperatures above 90°F (32°C) and insufficient water can cause wilting, browning, and even death of grass. 
Turf struggles to retain moisture when it’s excessively hot and lacks water.
Cool season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fescues are particularly vulnerable to heat stress.
If there’s been sufficient rainfall, mowing won’t cause damage even in high temperatures. However, a lack of rain combined with heat can harm your lawn.

Mowing new lawns in hot weather

Established lawns with thicker root beds handle high temperatures better than newly planted sod.
New lawns are more susceptible to damage from mowing (trimming or edging) during hot weather.
If you must mow in the heat, follow these precautions:
Choose cooler times of day (early morning or late evening).
Raise the height of your mower blades and trimming level to reduce stress on the grass.

Practical tips for lawn mowing in hot weather

Weekly lawn care schedule

Mow your lawn on the same day every week, keeping the grass at a height of 3-4 inches. This is enough time for your lawn to grow between cuts. 

If you have access to water, consider a deep-core watering regimen 2-3 times weekly for 1 hour, covering all lawn sections. Combining higher mowing levels with deep-core watering promotes a lush, resilient lawn.

Adjust mowing height

Keep your grass a bit longer, between 3-4 inches. This height ensures sufficient moisture retention, even without additional watering. A slightly taller lawn provides shade, protects against heat stress, and reduces moisture loss. 

Normally, for Bluegrass, Fescue, and Ryegrass, a mowing height of 2.5 inches is recommended. However, in hot and dry conditions, raise the mower deck a little higher. This extra height helps retain moisture and keeps your lawn hydrated.

Trimming and edging

When trimming your lawn (part of the mowing process), match the higher mowing height. Avoid cutting too low, as it stresses the grass.

For turf edging, cut at a 90-degree vertical angle to prevent damage to the edges.

Watch for sticking up grass blades

Even with a sharp mower blade, some grass blades may stick up. Longer grass blades are more flexible and tend to bend downward due to the wind caused by the mower blade.

If you want to ensure that grass blades look cleaner, a cross-sectional pattern is advised to ensure that any remaining grass blades sticking up are cut. If needed, you can also use a lawn trimmer to take care of any stubborn blades.

Maintain your mower engine

A smoothly running mower engine ensures more even cuts. If your engine struggles, consider getting it tuned up.

Be patient

Your lawn may not look perfect immediately. Give it temporary protection by following the guidelines here. Once conditions improve, return to the recommended mowing height.

Stay proactive

Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If hot weather is expected in 1-2 weeks, adjust your mowing height promptly.

Even after sufficient rainfall, be cautious during upcoming hot spells.

The takeaway: consider hiring a pro

Maintaining a beautiful lawn in Canada’s hot weather requires a delicate balance. Sometimes it’s best to leave the lawn mowing to the pros. Consider hiring professional lawn care  services to keep your lawn looking its greenest all summer long!

Remember, a well-cared-for lawn not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also contributes to a healthier environment.