Keeping your lawn healthy and green in the Okanagan can be tricky with our hot summers and dry conditions, but with the right care, you can have a lush and green lawn year-round. Let’s break down the key things you need to know about lawn care, from watering to mowing, fertilizing, and dealing with drought.
1. Understand Your Lawn’s Needs
Soil Testing
Before you start treating your lawn, it’s a good idea to know what’s going on with your soil. Testing your soil’s pH and nutrients helps you understand what your lawn needs. A simple soil test kit can help you figure out if your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, and whether you need to add anything to make it healthier.
Choosing the Right Grass
In the Okanagan, it’s best to go with a grass that can handle the heat and occasional drought. Kentucky bluegrass is a popular choice because it does well in our climate and bounces back quickly after dry spells. The right grass makes all the difference in how easy it is to care for your lawn.
2. Watering Tips
Water Deeply, Not Often
Your lawn needs about 1 inch of water per week, and it’s best to water it 2-3 times a week, not daily. Deep watering encourages the grass to develop strong roots that reach down for water, making your lawn more drought-resistant in the long run. Watering daily can make the grass roots stay close to the surface, which makes your lawn weaker.
The key is to water deeply enough that the soil around the root zone is moistened, but you don’t want to drown your grass either. Watering too often, or in shallow amounts, can create a shallow root system, leaving your lawn vulnerable when water is scarce.
Watering Time Matters
It’s best to water early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. This helps the water soak into the ground before the sun evaporates it. Try using soaker hoses or drip irrigation for even moisture distribution.
3. Mowing Like a Pro
Cut at the Right Height
Mowing can be tricky. Cutting your grass too short stresses it out and makes it easier for weeds to take over. Keep your grass around 2.5 to 4 inches tall. And when you mow, never remove more than a third of the grass height at once. This keeps your lawn healthy and lush.
Sharp Lawn Mower Blades
A sharp mower blade is key to a healthy, green lawn. Dull blades tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, leaving jagged edges that quickly turn brown. If you notice the tips of your grass looking white or frayed, it’s a sign your blades need sharpening. You should try to sharpen your mower blades once or twice a year, or replace them if they’re too worn down. A clean cut helps the grass heal faster and stay healthy, giving your lawn that lush, vibrant look.
4. Fertilizing for a Healthier Lawn
Fertilize Seasonally
Your lawn loses nutrients over time, so feeding it with fertilizer is a must. Fertilize at least 3 times a year—once in the spring, once in the summer, and once in the fall. This gives your grass the nutrients it needs to grow thick and strong.
Choosing Fertilizer
Pick the right fertilizer for your lawn’s needs. If you’re not sure what to use, talk to local experts or check with local suppliers for advice. They’ll help you find the best product for your grass type and soil.
5. Dealing with Weeds and Pests
Prevent Weeds Naturally
A healthy lawn naturally fights off weeds. The key is to keep it strong by watering, mowing, and fertilizing regularly. If your grass is thick and healthy, weeds won’t stand a chance.
Targeted Treatments
If you spot weeds, take care of them right away. You can either pull them by hand or use a targeted herbicide. But always be careful with chemicals—read the labels and follow the instructions so you don’t harm your lawn.
6. Managing Drought Conditions
Know When Your Lawn Is Dormant
During dry spells, your lawn might turn brown, but don’t panic—it’s just going into dormancy. Grass in dormancy is still alive, and it’ll bounce back when the weather improves or when you start watering again.
Water Less During Drought
In drought conditions, you don’t need to water your lawn as much. Watering every two to four weeks with about 1/4 inch of water is usually enough to keep the roots alive without encouraging too much grass growth. Your lawn will survive, and once the weather cools, it will green up again.
7. Sustainable Lawn Care
Be Water-Wise
Water conservation is a big deal in the Okanagan, especially during droughts. Lavington Turf Farms is part of the North Okanagan Regional District’s Drought Response Team and helps create plans for water conservation. We also believe in teaching our community how to take care of their lawns while saving water.
Shop Local and Sustainable
For the best products, shop with local suppliers who focus on sustainable lawn care. By choosing products that are environmentally friendly, you can help keep your lawn green and reduce your environmental footprint.
Take Care of Your Lawn
Taking care of your lawn in the Okanagan doesn’t have to be hard. By following these simple tips on watering, mowing, fertilizing, and managing drought conditions, you can have a healthy, green lawn without wasting water.
If you need help choosing the right grass or advice on lawn care, don’t hesitate to contact Lavington Turf Farms. We’re here to help you create the best lawn in the neighbourhood!
