Experts warn that a common task done during hot weather is a ‘bad idea’ that can leave grass scorched, patchy and slow to recover
Could you be making the same mistake without realising?(Image: Iuliia Bondar via Getty Images)
Gardening enthusiasts have been warned against a “bad idea” lawn mistake that experts say could result in scorched, patchy grass that struggles to recover throughout the summer. Many homeowners are said to persist with this misstep during spells of warm weather, oblivious to the long-term damage it may cause.
The warning comes after certain parts of the UK experienced temperatures reaching as high as 34C amid a recent mini-heatwave. The blistering conditions prompted countless people across the country to head outdoors and embrace the glorious weather, with gardens, parks and beaches all proving especially well-attended.
Yet specialists suggest the same stretch of pleasant weather also sparked a common error, as certain homeowners chose to cut their lawns despite the risks associated with extreme heat. Might you be making the same mistake without realising? Here’s what you need to know.
Lawns can be left dry and scorched by extreme weather(Image: Penpak S. via Getty Images)
Gardening specialist James Lewis, from MyBuilder.com, has highlighted that mowing while temperatures soar can leave grass blades vulnerable to harsh sunlight, while simultaneously accelerating the loss of moisture. He warned that this may result in barren areas requiring substantial time and energy to repair once the damage has occurred.
Lewis stated: “While the good weather might make you feel like you have a great opportunity to make your garden look neat and tidy – actually gardening in the heat can be a bad idea.”
He went on to observe that elevated temperatures coupled with powerful sunshine can swiftly compromise newly trimmed grass. “If you cut your grass, the blades will be more exposed to the sun, and the soil will also suffer,” Lewis continued. “This will lead to bare patches in your lawn which will take time and effort to repair”
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) backs up this guidance, noting that maintaining slightly longer grass during dry periods helps lock in moisture and protects roots from heat damage. Longer blades can also help minimise evaporation at ground level.
Specialists further warn that mowing while conditions are hot can intensify dehydration in lawns, especially when rain is in short supply. Studies referenced by the University of Reading indicate that heat-stressed turf takes longer to bounce back when cut excessively short on a regular basis.
Mr Lewis pointed out that longer grass acts as a protective layer during heatwaves, assisting in keeping a cooler environment near the soil surface. He observed this can boost overall lawn durability when extreme weather strikes.
He additionally warned that cutting grass in sweltering temperatures can present health dangers to gardeners, including dehydration and heat exhaustion. The NHS highlights that heat exhaustion may develop when the body becomes overheated and has difficulty controlling its temperature.
MyBuilder.com advises raising the height of mower blades during arid spells and steering clear of trimming grass excessively short. It also recommends reducing heavy footfall on lawns and watering judiciously to avoid placing further strain on the turf.
The guidance also warns against watering during the warmest periods of the day, when most of the water evaporates before it can soak into the ground. Rather, watering in the early morning or evening is considered most advantageous for maintaining a healthy lawn.
Experts recommend that small changes to your usual routine can be crucial in helping lawns bounce back after periods of hot weather. With many gardens still showing signs of recent heat damage, getting the timing right and avoiding excess are key to preventing further harm.
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