It’s been a tough summer for plants. First came the heat waves with many areas experiencing a prolonged dry spell.
The current situation will be particularly disheartening for homeowners who have spent time and effort nurturing their lawn over the past few months. As grass blades now turn from lush green to a much less attractive shade of brown, many will be wondering what they can do to protect all their hard work.
Some experts advise simply letting nature take its course. In a recent Instagram reel, RHS Chelsea Flower Show gardener Matthew Wilson advised followers to not “bother watering your lawn.” He added: “Your lawn will go brown—it’s fine. Ours goes brown every year; it will come back and be green again next year.”
That said, you don’t have to accept defeat just yet. David Wilson Homes has partnered with gardening expert Lucie Bradley from Easy Garden Irrigation to share three things you can do to keep your lawn hydrated until the next rainfall.
1. Collect Rainwater and Reuse Graywater
Rain barrels are especially useful during dry periods, allowing you to make the most of rainwater collected over time.
Got a shower or bath that takes a long time to warm up? Place a bucket under the faucet and collect that otherwise-wasted water to use in the yard.
You may also be able to reuse certain household water—known as graywater—for landscape irrigation, depending on local rules. Graywater generally includes wastewater from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, provided it is free from harsh chemicals or pollutants. It does not include water from toilets or bidets and typically excludes kitchen sinks and dishwashers. Check your state and local requirements for graywater before using it.
2. Water Early in the Day
Timing makes a big difference in how well your lawn responds to watering. Hydrate it in the early morning, between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., as this is typically the coolest time of day, to reduce the risk of evaporation in the heat.
3. Leave the Grass Clippings
Finally, one of the easiest ways to keep your lawn hydrated throughout the day is to simply leave grass clippings after mowing. This helps recycle the nutrients back into the soil while also acting as a natural mulch, slowing evaporation and improving the soil’s ability to retain moisture.
