Shifts in global weather patterns due to climate change can produce noticeable effects on various aspects of your life – including your lawn. Do you want the yard to have a gorgeous, thriving lawn, even under unpredictable weather conditions? The secret is cultivating a consistent lawn maintenance routine.
The Yard Force is a full-service landscaping and lawn care company serving Knoxville, Tennessee, and the surrounding areas. Here, we explain how changes in climate impact local yards and what you can do to maintain yours.
Climate Change Challenges That Affect Your Lawn Care and Maintenance
Regardless of your desire and ability to care for your yard and its plants, fluctuations in temperature and rainfall can make your job more challenging. How exactly could climate change impact lawn maintenance?
Precipitation: Changes Patterns Over the Years
Tennessee has a history of receiving regular rainfall, but this is changing. Today’s unpredictability of weather patterns can trigger heavier rainfall or longer-than-expected dry periods. Both situations aren’t good for your lawn.
An increase in rain can compact soil, making it difficult for plants to absorb nutrients through their roots. Oversaturation could trigger topsoil erosion, which is a problem if grasses rely on the top layer of earth for nutrients.
Conversely, prolonged periods without enough rainfall dry out the soil. Grasses and other plants with shallow root systems aren’t as resilient in drought conditions. During these seasons, you’ll have to keep your lawn well-watered.
Increased Temperatures: Jeopardizes Plant Growth and Health
Tennessee’s unpredictable rainfall patterns aren’t the only climate change problems that can impact lawn health. The average temperatures in Tennessee are climbing, and higher temperatures are putting undue stress on local grasses.
With heat levels increasing, it becomes harder for the soil in your yard to retain moisture, leaving plants competing for water. Your grass could dry out and develop brittle, brown patches without timely intervention.
Unseasonal Warmth: Brings More Pests to Your Property
Have you noticed insects and grubs appearing around your property earlier than expected? Climate change could be the culprit since the increase in global temperatures can trigger milder winters.
Although many insects hibernate in the winter, even minor temperature increases trigger a shorter dormancy period. You’ll have more insects eating your yard’s greenery before your grass can fully exit its dormancy and recover.
Weather Changes: Boosts the Risk of Lawn Diseases Is Higher
One of the most surprising problems with improper lawn maintenance is overwatering the grass. Excess moisture in the soil makes it easier for fungal diseases, such as brown patch and dollar spot, to take root. These diseases destroy lawns fast unless you restore the balance.
How You Can Adapt Your Lawn To Weather Changes
The good news about Tennessee’s changing climate is that adjusting your lawn maintenance routine can ensure your yard stays beautiful and healthy. As your first step, consider climate-resilient or drought-resistant grass species. It’s easier to work with these plants because they require less water and can survive in extreme temperatures.
Your grass-cutting habits may also have to change to accommodate the heat. Mowing grass higher than usual could keep your yard looking neat and well-manicured. The taller blades will also provide shade for the root system and keep everything cooler.
The next consideration is improving soil health, which is essential for vibrant grass and sustainable growth. Adding these to your lawn maintenance routine could keep your yard healthier as temperatures rise:
- Lawn aeration: Aerating your yard is a great way to address soil compaction. It improves water drainage, helping grass root systems absorb more moisture.
- Grass fertilization: Light fertilization can give your grass any nutrients that the soil lacks. Avoid over-fertilization, which can attract pests and derail weed control.
- Tree mulching: Consider adding mulch around your garden beds and trees. The mulch can help retain water so that plants don’t compete with lawns for moisture.
- Irrigation: Proper lawn maintenance includes regular watering, especially during dry spells. Smart drip irrigation systems can provide your yard with the moisture it needs without oversaturating the ground.
Despite these countermeasures, it’s vital to monitor your property to know how changing climate conditions are directly or indirectly affecting the landscaping and lawn. What your lawn needs may differ from others in your area. Adjust your lawn maintenance routine and consider contacting a local lawn care company for an assessment.
Turn To Knoxville, TN’s Top Choice for Lawn Maintenance – The Yard Force
Lawn maintenance doesn’t have to be a chore, even with Tennessee’s ever-changing climate. At The Yard Force, we specialize in various lawn care and maintenance services, including lawn mowing, irrigation solutions, edging, and trimming. Our experienced and knowledgeable team understands how climate and weather changes can affect local lawns, and we utilize our expertise to maintain healthy and vibrant exterior spaces.
Contact our team at The Yard Force today to explore your service options and request a free quote!
