The Southern Lawn Calendar: What to Do Now to Prepare for Fall Success

Why Summer Preparation Matters

Georgia's hot, humid summers can leave lawns stressed and soil compacted. Without proper care, your turf may struggle to bounce back in fall. By addressing these issues now, you'll create the ideal conditions for aeration, overseeding, and fertilization later in the year.

Steps to Take in July

1. Evaluate Lawn Health

Walk your lawn and look for signs of stress like thinning grass, bare patches, or compacted soil. These indicators will help you decide what treatments are needed in the coming weeks. 

2. Plan for Fall Aeration and Overseeding

If you have a fescue lawn, fall is the best time to aerate and overseed. Start planning now by scheduling a professional service or preparing your equipment. Mark your calendar for early September to get the best results. 

3. Apply a Mid-Summer Fertilizer

Use a slow-release fertilizer designed for your grass type. This helps maintain color and strength through the heat while preparing your lawn for fall growth. 

4. Check Your Irrigation System

Make sure your sprinklers are working efficiently and covering all areas of your lawn. Adjust watering schedules to ensure deep, consistent moisture without overwatering. 

5. Reduce Lawn Stress

Avoid heavy foot traffic and mow at a higher setting to reduce stress on your grass. Keep mower blades sharp to prevent tearing the grass, which can lead to disease.