As the temperature rises, your lawn is the first thing to show stress. Melbourne’s dry heat can turn a lush green carpet into a brown dustbowl in a matter of weeks. However, with a bit of preparation, your turf can survive and thrive.
1. Deep watering over frequent sprinkling
The biggest mistake homeowners make is watering little and often. This encourages shallow roots that dry out quickly. Instead, water deeply once or twice a week. This trains the roots to go down deep into the soil where it stays cooler and moister.
2. Raise your mower height
Scalping your lawn is a death sentence in summer. Longer grass blades shade the soil, reducing evaporation and protecting the roots. Raise your mower deck to leave about 40–50 mm of leaf on the grass.
3. Apply a wetting agent
Western Melbourne soils can become hydrophobic (water-repellent) when dry. If you notice water pooling on the surface rather than soaking in, apply a quality soil wetter. This helps water penetrate evenly to the root zone.
4. Fertilise at the right time
Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilisers in the peak of heat, as they encourage rapid growth that requires more water. Instead, use a slow-release fertiliser or a seaweed tonic early in the season to strengthen the cell walls of the grass.
Considering a change?
If you’re tired of the constant battle to keep your lawn alive, it might be time to consider drought-tolerant varieties like TifTuf Bermuda or even high-quality artificial turf. We can help you decide the best option for your lifestyle.