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August is a critical month for maintaining healthy St. Augustine grass. Proper care during this time ensures your lawn remains lush and vibrant through the late summer. Here are the top five tips to keep your grass in top shape this August.
1. Water Deeply and Infrequently
St. Augustine grass thrives with deep, infrequent watering. Aim to provide about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent disease.
2. Mow at the Right Height
Maintain your mower at a height of 3 to 4 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, conserves moisture, and discourages weeds. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
3. Fertilize Appropriately
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for warm-season grasses. The best time is early August, but avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive growth and susceptibility to pests.
4. Control Weeds and Pests
Inspect your lawn regularly for weeds and pests. Use appropriate herbicides and insecticides, following label instructions carefully. Healthy, dense grass is the best defense against invasions.
5. Aerate and Overseed if Needed
If your lawn has thin or bare patches, August is a good time to aerate and overseed. This promotes root growth and helps your grass recover from summer stress. Water thoroughly after overseeding.