Caring for your lawn during hot, dry stretches

MIAMI VALLEY — It’s been a hot June and July here in the Miami Valley with both months seeing their fair share of 90-degree days.

>> Explained: Microclimates in the Miami Valley

A heat wave is classified as three consecutive 90 degree days or warmer. For the month of June, Dayton has seen five 90-degree days. In July, Dayton has seen 11 90-degree days. That number will most likely increase as we head into the weekend and into next week.

90-degree temperatures are expected for the next five days. Not only has the Miami Valley experienced the summer heat, but also dry conditions. The entire Miami Valley is currently experiencing abnormally dry conditions due to the lack of rain. With the summer heat and the lack of rain, our lawns will feel the impact.

Here are a few helpful tips to remember when treating a lawn in dry conditions.

Watering during the early morning hours will be beneficial because it lessens evaporation. The best times will be from 3:00 AM to 6:00 AM. Keeping the grass cut on the longer side, between three to four inches will help with the water sinking into the soil and provide shade. Simply staying off the lawn will also reduce stress.