September has arrived in Madison, but apparently summer did not get the memo. We are heading toward fall, yet the warm temperatures and muggy days are still hanging around. While we might be ready for crisp mornings and sweatshirt weather, our lawns are still dealing with some very summerlike conditions.

After months of heat, humidity, mowing, backyard activity, and the occasional dry spell, your lawn may be looking a little tired. September is a great time to help it recover while slowly getting ready for the cooler days ahead.

Keep Mowing While the Grass Is Growing

It might be September, but don’t put the mower away just yet. As long as warm weather sticks around, your grass will continue to grow.

Keep mowing as needed and avoid cutting the lawn extra short just because fall is coming. Removing too much of the grass blade at once can add even more stress to a lawn that has already made it through a long summer.

Instead, continue following the one third rule. Never remove more than one third of the grass blade in a single mowing. As temperatures cool and growth begins to slow, your mowing schedule can slow down with it.

Pay Attention to Moisture

Warm temperatures combined with September humidity can make watering a little tricky. Your lawn may still need additional water during dry stretches, but too much moisture can create its own set of problems.

If watering is necessary, early morning is still the best time. This gives the grass and soil time to absorb the water while allowing the blades to dry during the day.

Also, don’t assume your lawn needs water simply because it’s warm. Check the soil first and let Mother Nature do the work when we’ve had enough rain.

Give Tired Areas Some Attention

Take a walk around your yard and see what summer left behind. You might notice thin areas where the kids played, spots where the dog always runs, or compacted sections near patios and walkways.

September is a good time to make note of these problem areas. Cooler fall temperatures create better conditions for lawn recovery, and aeration can help loosen compacted soil so air, water, and nutrients can reach the roots more easily.

A little attention now can make a noticeable difference when your lawn wakes up next spring.

Don’t Ignore Those Early Leaves

We’re not quite at peak leaf season yet, but a few trees are already starting to remind us what’s coming.

You don’t need to obsess over every leaf that lands in the yard, but don’t let thick layers sit on the grass for long periods. Leaves can trap moisture and block sunlight, especially during warm and humid weather.

Keeping up with the early leaves also means you’ll have a little less to tackle once they really start coming down.

Start Planning for Fall Cleanup

September is a transition month. Before we know it, Madison lawns will be covered in leaves, sticks, and everything else fall brings with it.

Now is a good time to think ahead and get fall cleanup on your calendar. Staying ahead of leaves and debris helps your grass get the sunlight and airflow it needs before winter arrives. It also means one less giant project waiting for you at the end of the season.

Help Your Lawn Finish the Season Strong

Your lawn has worked hard all summer, and September is its chance to recover. Keep mowing while it’s growing, watch your watering, pay attention to stressed areas, and start preparing for the leaves that will soon be falling in full force.

And if you’d rather spend those beautiful fall weekends doing something other than mowing and cleaning up the yard, Friske Lawn Care can help. We can keep up with your lawn maintenance now and handle the fall cleanup when the leaves start piling up. Contact Friske Lawn Care today to get on the schedule and enjoy a little more of the season.