It’s been a dry spring for the Sunshine State. According to
AccuWeather, about 77% of Florida is experiencing drought. As warm and dry conditions persist, meteorologists expect the drought to carry into May. Since Florida’s rainy season doesn’t usually begin until late May, residents might have to deal with these conditions for a few more weeks.
How the Drought Is Affecting Florida Lawns
The warm weather and lack of moisture restrict water from reaching the soil. Without the right amount of water, grass begins to brown out. Any precipitation is precious during a drought. If you live in one of Florida’s affected areas, you must take proper precautions to keep your lawn healthy.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Lawn from Drought
First and foremost, check with your local municipality to see if there are currently any watering restrictions. It’s common for towns to put limits on water resources during dry spells, so make sure you’re allowed to irrigate your lawn before moving forward. If you’re cleared to water your lawn, irrigate less frequently than normal. Sparse, deep watering helps grass roots grow stronger and less susceptible to drought. You don’t want to use more water than necessary in a drought, so be conservative. See our list of
watering tips for general guidance. If your area has lawn waterin g restrictions, only use as much as permitted. If you use a sprinkler system, make sure it isn’t spraying water onto the street or driveway.
Lawn Treatments to Use During a Drought
It’s important to keep your lawn as healthy as possible during a drought. Fertilizing will allow your grass to get the nutrients it needs. Soil enrichment helps grass roots grow stronger, making lawns more resistant to dry conditions. Lawns are highly vulnerable to pests like chinch bugs during a drought, as these insects thrive in dry conditions. They feed on grass roots and can quickly destroy a lawn when left uncontrolled. Lawn Doctor offers fertilization, soil enrichment, and
lawn pest control services throughout the Sunshine State. Our local professionals know the best ways to treat Florida lawns during dry spells, so give us a call if the drought is affecting your yard.
Additional Resources
The National Drought Mitigation Center provides weekly updates on droughts across the country.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection offers contact information for local drought resources.
Lawn Doctor Can Help
Your local Lawn Doctor can help your lawn recover from potential drought damage and get it in shape for the beautiful months to come.
For more information, fill out the form below or call 866-591-8432.