The arrival of summer in Spain presents a considerable challenge for those who care for gardens and green spaces, mainly due to high temperatures and water scarcity affecting the growth of grass. According to the Spanish Meteorological Agency and the Ministry of Health, the average temperature in the country has increased almost 2ºC since 1961, with heatwaves becoming more frequent. This trend has seen the twelve warmest years on record occurring in the 21st century, leading to increased thermal stress in gardens and outdoor areas.
Given this adversity, maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing lawn has become particularly complex during droughts and occasional water restrictions in various regions. Proper maintenance techniques, such as frequent and light cutting using robotic lawnmowers, may be the key to achieving a dense lawn capable of withstanding the tough summer conditions.
To assist gardeners in managing these extreme weather conditions, Segway Navimow, known for its wireless robotic lawnmowers, has shared a series of seven practical tips:
1. Aerating the lawn with specific tools helps water and nutrients reach the roots more effectively.
2. Providing shade during the hottest hours with umbrellas or awnings helps protect the lawn from heat stress.
3. Reduce traffic on the lawn, as it becomes more fragile in extreme heat conditions.
4. Remove weeds quickly, as they tend to proliferate in stressed lawns.
5. Reuse rainwater to fill the irrigation tank, which is particularly useful in scenarios of water restrictions and preferred by many plants over tap water.
6. Apply mulch, such as bark or wood chips, around plants to retain moisture and reduce the need for watering.
7. Before watering, check the soil moisture by pressing it with a finger. This can help avoid unnecessary watering, as the soil may be wetter than it appears at first glance.
Implementing these tips can greatly help in maintaining a garden in optimal condition, even under the most adverse situations of an increasingly hot summer.