Modern device of irrigation garden. Irrigation system - technique of watering in the garden. Lawn sprinkler spraying water over green grass.; Shutterstock ID 82752859; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -
As summer vacation season approaches, homeowners are eager to escape on their trips. While preparing for a getaway, it is essential to ensure that your lawn remains healthy and vibrant during your absence. According to lawn care expert Doug O’Connor from DeerFencing.com, taking the right steps before you leave can prevent a brown, wilted yard upon your return. Here are three essential tips to protect your lawn while you enjoy your time away.
Trim the Grass Before Departure
One crucial step to maintaining a healthy lawn is to give it a pre-vacation trim. O’Connor recommends cutting your grass about a day prior to your departure, ensuring you do not cut it too short. “Taking off just the top third of the grass blade is perfect,” he explains. This approach reduces growth stress and helps prevent potential sun damage and drying out.
A fresh trim also discourages pests from seeking refuge in overgrown grass, contributing to a healthier yard. By investing a little time in lawn care before your vacation, you can avoid returning to unsightly brown patches.
Implement Smart Watering Solutions
Whether you are planning an extended vacation or a short getaway, proper watering is essential for maintaining your lawn’s health. Automated watering systems, particularly smart sprinklers, can be a valuable addition to your home. These systems allow homeowners to customize their watering schedules through an app and adjust automatically based on real-time weather conditions.
O’Connor emphasizes the benefits of smart sprinklers, stating, “They won’t run during rainstorms, saving water and preventing overwatering, which can be just as harmful as underwatering.” For those who prefer a more traditional approach, enlisting a trusted neighbor to water your lawn can be a viable option. Alternatively, a simple automatic sprinkler system with a timer can provide peace of mind for frequent travelers.
The Rachio smart sprinkler controller, for example, offers features that allow users to automate their watering routines. It can adapt to local weather patterns, ensuring that your lawn receives the right amount of care while you are away.
Use Slow-Release Fertilizer
Fertilizing your lawn before leaving for vacation is another key step in ensuring its health. O’Connor recommends applying a slow-release fertilizer about a week prior to your departure. This type of fertilizer gradually releases nutrients over time, supporting steady growth without encouraging rapid growth that requires frequent mowing.
Avoid quick-release fertilizers just before leaving, as they can result in excessive lawn growth, making maintenance more challenging upon your return. Depending on your lawn’s needs, consider using a nitrogen fertilizer for a lush green appearance, phosphorus to promote root development, or potassium to enhance overall plant health and stress resistance.
By following these straightforward tips, homeowners can enjoy their vacations with confidence, knowing that their lawns will remain healthy and green. Taking these proactive steps not only saves time and money but also ensures that you return to a beautiful outdoor space ready for relaxation and enjoyment.
