Keeping Your Lawn Healthy During Summer Water Bans
If you've noticed more brown lawns appearing around the neighborhood lately, you're not alone. Communities across Massachusetts and much of the Northeast are facing outdoor watering restrictions during the summer months. The good news is that brown doesn't necessarily mean dead. Many established lawns naturally go dormant during extended periods of heat and drought.
Understand Lawn Dormancy
- Dormancy is a natural survival mechanism for cool-season grasses.
- Many healthy lawns recover once cooler weather and rainfall return.
Water Deeply—When Allowed
- Water only during permitted days and times.
- Water early in the morning.
- Water deeply rather than lightly to encourage deep roots.
Raise Your Mower
- Keep grass around 4–5 inches tall to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.
Skip Heavy Fertilizing
- Avoid stressing the lawn with fertilizer until cooler weather returns.
Leave the Clippings
- Grass clippings return moisture and nutrients to the soil.
Protect Your Most Valuable Plants First
- Newly planted trees and shrubs
- Vegetable gardens
- Perennial beds
- Established lawns
Check Your Irrigation System
- Fix leaks and adjust sprinkler heads so water reaches plants—not sidewalks.
Jennifer's Healthy Home Takeaway
- Don't panic if your lawn turns brown. Mow a little higher, water wisely when permitted, and prioritize trees and shrubs. Your lawn has an excellent chance of recovering when cooler weather returns.