WARNING: Common Lawn Care Myths That Waste Time

March 3, 2025

Don’t Fall for These Lawn Care Myths – They’re Costing You Time!

Have you ever heard that watering your lawn in the middle of a hot day will burn the grass? Or that cutting it super short will mean you don’t have to mow as often? It’s time to bust some of these lawn care myths! If you’re putting in effort to keep your lawn looking lush, you want to make sure you’re not wasting your time on bad advice.

Myth #1: Cutting Grass Short Means Less Mowing

The logic seems sound, right? Cut the grass super low, and you won’t have to drag the mower out as often. But what actually happens? The grass gets stressed out. When it’s too short, it struggles to absorb enough sunlight, weakening the roots. Instead of saving yourself work, you’ll end up dealing with patchy, thin grass that’s more prone to weeds. Aim to cut only a third of the blade length each time for a healthier lawn.

Myth #2: Watering in the Sun Scorches Your Lawn

That old tale about water droplets acting like magnifying glasses and burning your lawn in the sun? False! The real issue isn’t scorching—it's evaporation. During the heat of the day, water evaporates before it can soak into the soil. Watering in the early morning or late afternoon is the way to go, giving moisture time to penetrate and nourish the roots properly.

Myth #3: More Fertiliser Means Faster Growth

It’s tempting to think that if a little fertiliser helps, a lot must be even better. But overdoing it can actually harm your lawn. Too much fertiliser leads to rapid, weak growth and can even burn the grass. Your lawn needs a balanced approach—feeding it with the right amount at the right time ensures strong roots and steady, healthy growth.

Myth #4: All Grass Needs the Same Care

Not all grass is created equal! Different varieties have different needs, especially when it comes to watering, mowing heights, and fertilising. Some grasses thrive in drier conditions, while others need more moisture. Knowing what type you have will help you tailor your lawn care routine for the best results.

Myth #5: Leaving Clippings on the Lawn Causes Thatch

If you’re bagging every single grass clipping because you're afraid of thatch buildup, you might be making things harder for yourself. Grass clippings break down quickly and return nutrients to the soil. Thatch is made up of tougher material, like stems and roots that haven’t decomposed properly. As long as you’re mowing regularly and not cutting too low, leaving the clippings can actually improve your lawn’s health.

Myth #6: You Must Water Every Day

A deep soak a few times a week is far better than a light sprinkle every day. Frequent shallow watering makes the roots lazy, keeping them close to the surface rather than encouraging deep growth. A good soak encourages a tougher, more drought-resistant lawn.

Take the Smart Approach to Lawn Care

By ditching these myths, you’ll spend less time fixing problems and more time enjoying a lush, low-maintenance lawn. If you need advice, the team at Strathalbyn H Hardware is always here to help with the right products and tips for your garden.

Happy gardening!
Candeece