Lawn care expert issues urgent summer warning amid heat surge

The extreme weather is expected to be driven by the global El Niño climate pattern.

Chris McIlroy, a lawn specialist at The Grass People, said: “We won’t know the true impact of El Nino this summer until it’s upon us.

“But after an unseasonably warm spring, it’s sensible to predict a hot summer is to follow.

“Taking steps to prepare your garden now will go a long way in ensuring it stays vibrant throughout the summer.”

Mr McIlroy recommends aerating lawns to help them withstand the heat.

He said: “You don’t necessarily need fancy equipment to aerate your lawn, using a pitch fork will suffice.

“It can prevent the lawn becoming compacted, so that water can seep through instead of just sitting on top.”

Feeding the lawn before the hottest months can also promote healthy growth, but over-fertilising can be damaging.

Mr McIlroy said: “Too much fertiliser can do more harm than good, particularly as temperatures rise.

“Opt for balanced or potassium-rich feeds rather than high-nitrogen products on your lawn, which can encourage vulnerable growth.

“Feeding plants can also help build their resilience, too.”

He also advises raising the mower blade as summer approaches.

Mr McIlroy said: “Letting your grass grow a little longer before a heatwave gives it a head start.

“Longer grass shades the soil, helping it retain moisture when it matters most.

“Set your mower blades to a higher setting so you’re not cutting too much off.”

Adopting a smart watering routine is also key to lawn survival during hot spells.

Mr McIlroy said: “Training yourself to water at the right time before a heatwave arrives means it becomes second nature when you really need it.

“Avoid the middle of the day, when water is likely to evaporate before it can soak through to the grass roots.

“Establish a habit of watering first thing in the morning.”

He also recommends installing a water butt.

Mr McIlroy said: “Also, install a water butt so any rainfall is captured and can be used as a resource if hosepipe bans come into force.”

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