We are in the middle of the “Dog Days of Summer.” The term refers to the period from about July 3rd – August 11th. It is the hottest time of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Our area has high temperatures and very humid weather.
The expression dates back to ancient Greece and Rome. They noticed the hottest days of the year coincided with the dawn rising of the brightest star in the sky, after the sun. The star’s name is Alpha Canis Majoris. They called it “Sirius,” the Dog Star. Sirius is part of the constellation Canis Majoris, the “Greater Dog.” The name Sirius is also derived from the Ancient Greek word “seirios” meaning scorching. The Greeks and Romans concluded wrongly that the light from this bright star in the daytime sky combined with the Sun’s light created the extreme heat.
These ancient people believed the Dog Days to be a difficult time of drought, sudden storms, fever, illness, lethargy, bad luck and heat so intense it could drive dogs and people mad. Today we do not associate this time of year with all that torment, unless of course your air condition breaks.
August Lawn and Garden Tips:
- Maintain sharp blades. Torn grass is unsightly, turns brown and invites disease.
- Mow HIGH. Raise your mower deck to its highest setting. Taller grass helps shade the roots from the hot sun. Higher mowing promotes deeper roots and helps to reduce weeds.
- Mow often enough to not remove anymore than 1/3 of the grass blades at a time.
- Water your lawn deeply and infrequently. Your grass should receive 1” – 1.5” of water per week.
- The plants, shrubs and trees in your landscape need to be watered too. Check small plants every 1 – 2 days and larger, established plants every 3 -5 days. Check the soil and root ball for moisture. When needed, water thoroughly until the root ball and surrounding soil are wet.
- Bedding plants, container plants and especially hanging baskets may need to be watered daily.
- Mulching your plants and trees helps to keep the roots cool, the weeds down and retain moisture.
- Do not let the mulch touch the trunk or stems of trees and plants.
Vegetable and Herbs
There is still time to plant vegetables and herbs for a fall harvest. Try a raised bed garden or plant in containers. It is too late for many varieties, but the following are a few good choices:
- Basil
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Chives
- Cilantro
- Dill
- Lettuce
- Radishes
- Spinach
Start to Plan for Fall
Fall is the best time of year to take care of your lawn and garden. The cooler temperatures return, and the soil is still warm, allowing for extensive root growth. This is the perfect time to plant new trees, shrubs, perennials and spring blooming bulbs.
After the brutal heat and drought of this summer most lawns will need repair. Consider fertilization, core-aeration and over-seeding to restore your grass. Top dressing your lawn will also make a big difference in the health and appearance of your yard.
Ask us about your own DIY Fall projects or let Grass Roots do the work for you. Please contact us with any questions. You can also find information on Fall Lawn Care on our website and blog. Grassrootslawnandlandscaping.com
Thank You for Voting
We are excited to tell you that for the second year in a row, we have been voted the First Place Winner in our category, “Best Home Improvement Company” for the Fredericksburg Parent and Family Favorites Magazine – 2020. We have also been chosen as Runner- Up for the Free Lance Star’s “Best of the Burg – 2020” – Best Landscaper.
We appreciate everyone that voted for us. Thank you. All of us at Grass Roots send our thanks to our customers for their business and support.
Wishful Thinking