Summer Lawn Myths—Busted

There’s no shortage of advice out there when it comes to summer lawn care. Unfortunately, not all of it is helpful—and some of it can even do more harm than good.

At ELM Lawn Care, we’ve seen it all. So let’s set the record straight by busting some of the most common myths that come up during the hottest time of year.

❌ Myth #1: The More You Water, the Better

Truth: More water doesn't always mean healthier grass. In fact, overwatering can lead to shallow root systems, fungus, and even pest problems. What your lawn really needs is 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.

✅ Smart tip: Water deeply and less often—preferably early in the morning—to help roots grow deep and strong.

❌ Myth #2: Cutting Grass Short Means Less Mowing

Truth: Cutting your grass too short in summer actually stresses the lawn and exposes the soil to more sunlight, which leads to faster drying and more weed growth.

✅ Smart tip: Mow on a higher setting in summer. Taller grass blades offer natural shade to the soil, retain moisture better, and protect the root zone.

❌ Myth #3: Fertilizer Fixes Everything

Truth: Fertilizing in mid-summer can backfire—especially for cool-season grasses like fescue. Fertilizer pushes new growth that your lawn may not be able to support in the heat, leading to further stress or disease.

✅ Smart tip: Hold off on heavy fertilizing until early fall, when temperatures are cooler and grass can benefit from a boost before winter.

❌ Myth #4: Brown Grass = Dead Grass

Truth: Brown patches during summer are often just signs of dormancy, a natural survival strategy. Grass may turn brown to conserve water and protect itself—especially in hot, dry spells.

✅ Smart tip: If your lawn has healthy roots and is watered properly, it will usually bounce back when cooler weather returns.

❌ Myth #5: All Lawn Treatments Are the Same

Truth: There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your lawn’s condition, soil health, grass type, and recent weather all influence how it should be treated. What works for one yard might harm another.

✅ Smart tip: Work with a local lawn care provider (like ELM!) who understands what your lawn needs—and what it doesn’t.

Lawn Smarter, Not Harder

Your lawn doesn’t need guesswork or outdated advice—it needs care based on knowledge, consistency, and timing. At ELM Lawn Care, we’re here to help you avoid costly mistakes and focus on what truly keeps your lawn healthy year-round.

Have a lawn care question or something you’ve “heard” that doesn’t seem quite right? Send it our way—we’re happy to help bust more myths!