Planning a New Year’s getaway or a few days down the coast? Before you pack your bags, take a few minutes to prepare your lawn. Sydney’s hot summer weather can be tough on grass, especially when no one’s home to water it regularly.
Here’s how to make sure your lawn stays healthy, green, and ready to enjoy when you return.
1. Mow Before You Go – But Not Too Short
Give your lawn a mow before you leave, but avoid cutting it too short. Keeping your grass slightly longer helps shade the soil and reduces water evaporation. Ensure your mower blades are sharp — blunt blades can tear grass leaves, making them more prone to drying out in the summer heat.
2. Give It a Deep Watering
The day before you leave, water your lawn deeply and early in the morning. A long soak encourages deeper root growth and helps your grass hold moisture for longer periods.
3. Apply a Soil Wetting Agent
Sydney’s clay and sandy soils can become hydrophobic over summer, meaning water simply runs off the surface. Applying a soil wetting agent before you leave helps water soak in more effectively and reach the roots where it’s needed most.
Many homeowners see a noticeable improvement in water retention with a single treatment.
4. Use a Lawn Fertiliser Before You Go
Feeding your lawn with a slow-release fertiliser 1–2 weeks before you leave can keep it nourished while you’re away. Choose a product like Lawn Solutions Premium Fertiliser will boost colour and drought tolerance.
For best results, water it in thoroughly or apply just before expected rain.
5. Automate Your Irrigation
If you have an irrigation system, set it to water early mornings two to three times a week. For manual systems, consider adding a smart irrigation timer — many can connect to Wi-Fi and adjust watering based on Sydney’s weather forecasts.
Even a basic battery timer can make a big difference if you’ll be away for a week or more.
6. Get a Neighbour to Check In
If possible, ask a neighbour or family member to pop by once or twice while you’re gone. A quick check can catch any issues early — like a blocked sprinkler, burst hose, or signs of pests.
Back Home? Here’s What to Do
When you return, give your lawn a gentle mow and a light watering to help it recover. If it looks a little patchy, avoid overwatering straight away — let it bounce back gradually.
With a bit of pre-holiday prep, you’ll come home to a healthy, green lawn ready for summer entertaining.
If you’d like more Sydney lawn care advice, check out our other blogs and seasonal maintenance guides.
How to Host the Perfect Backyard Christmas on a Lush Green Lawn