Pink and purple clematis flowers with star-shaped petals bloom among green leaves, creating a vibrant and colorful garden scene.

The Summer lull seemed to come early, along with rising temperatures and a lack of any meaningful rain.  August will soon be upon us, and contrary to popular belief, she would bestow a dynamic landscape of possibility and change.  And opportunity is a knocking.

Close-up view of young green grass blades sprouting from dark brown soil, with sunlight highlighting the fresh growth.

Late Summer provides ideal conditions to seed our lawns.  More specifically, seeding should be done between mid-August through mid-September as day time temperatures grow milder with cooler nights, increasing moisture is available, and there is less competition from weed seed germination. Further still, soil temperatures are still warm, again presenting ideal conditions for seed germination.

Close-up of vibrant green grass blades growing densely outdoors, with a blurred background suggesting a natural, sunny setting.

Seeding now allows for strong root development prior to winter’s wrath.  And when Spring rolls around, you’re already way ahead of the game, but there is a caveat.  Simply broadcasting seed is only part of the equation.  In order for the seed to make contact with the soil and develop hearty roots, you must absolutely, unequivocally water.

A happy dog stands on grass, mouth open, trying to catch water sprayed from a hose on a sunny day in a backyard near a window and green bushes.

Adequate watering must be provided until complete seed germination. The seeds should be continuously watered on a frequent and light basis. Once the seedlings start to grow, watering should occur less frequently, but deeper, which ultimately creates stronger root systems and overall healthier lawns.  Simply tossing some seed onto the dirt or over weakened areas without proper watering will do nothing but feed the birds.  You must remain vigilant and diligently water, or all your work is for naught.

Rear view of a white Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck with www.sweenyslandscaping.com on the tailgate, parked in a driveway next to a brick house.

Once seedlings begin to grow and fill in, don’t get the mower out just yet.  The first mow should happen once the height of the grass reaches about 50% higher than the desired mowing height.  For example, if you normally mow your lawn at a height of 2″, then do not mow until the seedlings have reached 3″.  Subsequent mowings may not need to be done weekly.  It all depends on how the grass is growing.  If rainfall is minimal, you may be mowing every other week.  No matter when you mow, remember never to remove more than 1/3 of the blade.

A roll of sod partially unrolled on bare soil, ready to be installed on a lawn.

Sod also does well this time of year for all the same reasons and can be laid almost up to the first frost.

A scruffy gray and white dog sits on green grass with its fur blowing in the wind. A wooden fence and deck are in the background, casting shadows on the lawn.

Contact Sweeney’s today to schedule your lawn renovation.  Don’t let the perfect window of opportunity elude you for another year.  Seize the season!  We proudly serve the communities of Villa Park, Elmhurst, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wood Dale, Itasca, and more!

Sweeney’s:  A Plant Based Company

Plant of the Week

 

Clumps of green and white variegated ornamental grass grow in a landscaped garden bed next to a concrete path, with a tree trunk visible in the background.

Feather Falls Sedge

Variegated, green and cream colored, arching, slender foliage grows in a lovely mound.  Prefers sun to partial sun and moist, well-drained soil.  Grows 12-18″ tall and 3-4′ wide.  Deer resistant.

“July brings harsh drought
but the sun is ripe; heat as thick
as tomato skins.”
–  kite

Best wishes,

Kim Sweeney

In honor of Barney and Ziggy. 

Lovers of healthy lawns, hoses and life.  

We love you, and miss you…