Heading out on vacation is exciting, but it can leave homeowners wondering how to keep their lawn in top shape while they’re away. Fortunately, with a bit of preparation and smart strategies, you can ensure your lawn stays healthy and vibrant until you return. Here’s how to care for your lawn while you’re on vacation.
Table of Contents
1. Mow Your Lawn Before You Leave
Proper mowing is key to keeping your lawn in good shape while you’re away.
- Cut to the correct height: Set your mower blade to cut no more than one-third of the grass’s length to avoid stress on the turf.
- Bag clippings: If your trip is longer than a week, bagging clippings prevents clumping and fungal growth.
- Trim edges: Take care of hard-to-reach areas with a trimmer for a polished look.
Mowing just before leaving ensures your lawn doesn’t look overgrown during your absence.
2. Water Deeply Beforehand
Prepare your lawn for your time away by giving it a thorough watering.
- Optimal timing: Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and allow the grass to absorb moisture.
- Deep soak: Ensure the soil is moist 6-8 inches deep, encouraging roots to grow downward.
- Avoid overwatering: Too much water can cause disease or runoff.
A properly hydrated lawn can go several days without additional watering, especially if rainfall is expected.
3. Set Up an Irrigation System
For longer vacations, automated systems can keep your lawn hydrated.
- Sprinkler timers: Program sprinklers to water early in the morning every few days.
- Smart systems: Install weather-based irrigation controllers that adjust watering based on current conditions.
- Drip irrigation: Use for flower beds and shrubs to minimize water waste.
Automation saves you from relying on neighbors or manual watering.
4. Apply Lawn Treatments
Take preventative steps to protect your lawn from pests and weeds.
- Pre-emergent herbicides: Apply these to prevent weed growth while you’re away.
- Grub treatments: Summer vacations align with Japanese beetle activity; treat your lawn to prevent grub infestations.
- Fertilizer: Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide steady nutrients over time.
These treatments ensure your lawn stays healthy and vibrant during your absence.
5. Ask for Help
Enlist a neighbor or hire a professional to maintain your lawn.
- Neighborly care: A trusted neighbor can mow and water your lawn as needed.
- Professional services: Lawn care experts, like TopScapes Design, can handle everything from mowing to pest control.
Reliable help ensures your lawn remains in good condition.
6. Secure Your Yard
Don’t forget to protect your lawn from damage while you’re away.
- Remove outdoor furniture: Store chairs, tables, and grills to avoid killing grass underneath.
- Adjust sprinklers: Ensure sprinklers don’t spray sidewalks or hardscapes, reducing water waste.
- Inspect for pests: Check for signs of infestations and treat accordingly before leaving.
A secure yard minimizes maintenance issues and ensures everything looks neat and tidy.
Top Scapes Design: Your Lawn Care Partner
Vacations are for relaxation, not worrying about your lawn. Let Top Scapes Design handle the care while you’re away. We offer expert mowing, irrigation, and maintenance services to keep your lawn thriving year-round.
Call us at (937) 218-6729, visit our website, or check out our Google Maps listing to schedule a service. Enjoy your vacation with the peace of mind that your lawn is in expert hands!